UW System’s statement on state budget

University of Wisconsin System leaders posted a statement to their website Thursday night following Senate passage of the 2011-13 state budget. “The two-year budget reduces taxpayer support for UW institutions by $250 million,” the statement says, “but it includes long-sought statutory changes in budgeting, financial management, personnel, and other areas. Together, these measures should help mitigate the impact of those cuts.” System President Kevin Reilly called the flexibilities the most significant operational changes in the System’s 40-year history. Board of Regents President Michael Spector praised restoration of WiscNet funding. Yet, Reilly added, the budget presents severe challenges to public higher education. “Large cuts will be felt by everyone, in the form of larger class sizes, reduced services, and higher staff workloads. But we are not alone in this struggle. We will tackle those challenges together…” For the full statement, click here.