After an unprecedented year, the Illinois General Assembly began its 2021 session January 13 and discussions regarding the state budget have already begun. Illinois Connection is hearing that this will be a rough budget year for higher education.
Call to action: share your story!
It is important that our state legislators truly understand the impact the University of Illinois System has on the state. We are asking you to reach out to your elected officials and share your U of I story. A personal, compelling message often resonates with lawmakers and, as the ILGA begins this new session, we want them to hear from you!
Here is an example outline for how you can write your email:
- Introduce yourself, where you are from and how you are affiliated with the U of I System (e.g. alumni, student, faculty, staff, friend)
- Explain how the U of I System has played a role in shaping your life. This could include your education at the U of I System serving as a launch pad for your career, highlighting the research you do/did and the implications for our society, or the role the university has played in your life or your child’s. This is all about sharing what has been most memorable or impactful to you!
- Wrap up the email by asking your state legislators to support and adequately fund the U of I System.
Your story is powerful in helping legislators understand the value and importance of the University of Illinois System. By sharing your story and the importance of the U of I System to you, you help ensure that our legacy is vibrant, and our public university system is thriving for generations to come.
Thank you, in advance, to everyone who advocates for UI funding!
