Statement from UW System Interim President Michael J. Falbo on Wisconsin Policy Forum report showing need for state investment in student financial aid

MADISON, Wis.—University of Wisconsin System Interim President Michael J. Falbo issued this statement today:

“State support for its public universities here in Wisconsin has fallen from around 30 percent in 2002 to 18 percent today. While students and families are picking up more of the costs of education, student aid has also fallen behind. Declining student aid increases student debt, depresses enrollment, and exacerbates Wisconsin’s workforce challenges.

“The University of Wisconsin is the state’s primary magnet for developing, attracting, and retaining talent.  Yet, investment in financial aid for Wisconsin students is now well below national averages. That is why we proposed expanding UW-Madison’s Bucky’s Tuition Promise to all UW System universities in the last budget. Targeted aid to students will help more than just those students and families affected, it would help all of Wisconsin. More students getting more education leads to more graduates. Simply put, student aid should be an easy investment to increase personal earnings and address workforce shortages.”

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.