U. of I. President Timothy L. Killeen announced June 3 that he would redirect $8.2 million in recurring funds from centrally held university accounts to support financial aid and other student-centered programs on the university’s three campuses.
Killeen, who made the announcement during a scheduled speech to the City Club of Chicago, said the move reflects his commitment to putting students first as the university seeks to maintain its excellence amid uncertain state support.
“Leadership starts at the top, and this is a first step to ensure that we manage our financial resources wisely and effectively to serve our students and the people of Illinois,” said Killeen, who took office as the university’s 20th president on May 18.
The $8.2 million to support student programs was identified during an ongoing review to examine spending and efficiency in central administration, which provides support for the university’s campuses in Urbana, Chicago and Springfield.
The funds were previously held in discretionary accounts under the direction of the president for various campus and universitywide initiatives. In the recent past, these funds have been used for projects such as campus facility renovations, information technology upgrades and other targeted initiatives.
Killeen said campuses will now be asked to submit proposals for a share of the funds, which could be used for need- or merit-based financial aid, minority student recruitment, counseling and placement services and other student-centered programs.
“The internal reallocation will support our highest priority – a world-class education with student access, affordability, completion and success as key components,” Killeen said.
