Another American state continues to experience higher education pain. Illinois has been struggling under the multiple burdens of demographics, a sclerotic state government, and rising costs (see some of my posts). Now the University of Illinois system‘s president, Timothy Killeen, states that times have become very desperate:
“All options are on the table as we go forward — layoffs, reductions of academic programs, closure of units and cuts in a health-care enterprise that provides critical care to underserved populations in Chicago…”
So there’s a queen sacrifice option aired, plus a potential hit to the community.
What are the causes here? The leading driver is the state government’s political chaos. Illinois’ declining K-12 demographics surely play an additional role.
I noted the University of Illinois facing financial problems early in 2015.
(thanks to Lisa Janicke Hinchliffe)
From a friend on Facebook:
“Still absent a plan
They’re kicking the can
Which is no longer funny
Cause the U’s out of money.”