J-S coverage: Regents approve Cross’ budget proposal

The UW System can no longer just be organized as a system of campuses; it must actively improve the well-being of state residents and bridge the talent gap that’s holding back Wisconsin’s economy, UW System President Ray Cross said Thursday. “The university’s priorities should be more tightly aligned with the needs of the state. This economy cannot grow any faster without more talent. … We’re preparing to play a major role.” Cross recommended, and the regents unanimously approved, a request for $95.2 million in new state funding in the 2015-’17 biennium for what he calls a “Talent Development Initiative.” Read full coverage by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.