Illinois grads, act to bolster university system - Michael Harring, Quad City Times

As the state has been operating without a budget for nearly two years, the advocacy efforts and support of alumni are needed now more than ever. Higher education is essential to the state’s economic vitality, and the University of Illinois can be part of the solution to the budget crisis. The university has introduced a 5-year program, the Investment, Performance and Accountability Commitment (IPAC) proposal, to provide the university a stable level of financial support. IPAC will hold the University accountable to the state in delivering it missions of affordable education, workforce preparation, innovation and economic development. IPAC would require the university to admit a certain number of Illinois residents, while also creating the Invest in Illinoisans program to provide over $125 million per year in financial aid for Illinois residents. http://qctimes.com/news/opinion/editorial/columnists/guest/guest-view-illinois-grads-act-to-bolster-university-system/article_0f63bc63-98da-5531-88db-e527f11c7afc.html