SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin introduced legislation to bring $7.2 million to Western Illinois University to drive new initiatives in innovation, workforce development and economic growth in the Quad Cities.

“Our state must ensure it can continue to fully serve its students and the broader community,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “This funding will give WIU the boost it needs to tackle higher education needs in the Quad Cities and beyond.”

Western Illinois University is launching several initiatives to help shape the next evolution of WIU-QC, including growing opportunities for local business through procurement and development assistance and building on programs that will position Western Illinois University to implement the community needs outlined in the recently released Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) “Thrive Quad Cities” report.

“These dollars will allow WIU to step forward,” said Halpin. “We must give the university the tools to enable a stable solution and this funding is the way to accomplish that goal.”

“As a lifelong resident of the Quad Cities, it is an honor to lead the next era of public higher education for our community,” said Dr. Kristi Mindrup, president of Western Illinois University. “An additional $7.2 million investment in Western Illinois University will lead to exciting opportunities in education, engineering, and healthcare that meet the needs of the Quad Cities region and beyond.”

Senate Bill 1308 is awaiting to be heard in the Senate Education Appropriations Committee.