Additional Funding for USI in state budget

STATEHOUSE —Southwest Indiana House Republicans , State Representatives Suzanne Crouch (R-Evansville), Wendy McNamara (R-Mount Vernon), Ron Bacon (R-Chandler) and Tom Washburne (R-Evansville), each worked in securing an additional $2 million in the biennial state budget for the University of Southern Indiana.

“It is important that the state recognizes the great things happening at USI and appropriates money for the school accordingly,” said Rep. Crouch. “I am glad that we were able to secure additional funding for such a wonderful institution and for the expansion of the IU School of Medicine in the Evansville area.”

Over the next two years, the state will provide over $84 million to USI for their total operating expenses.

“USI is an incredible asset to our local community,” said Rep. Washburne. “It is encouraging that Chairman Brown and Speaker Bosma are beginning to take notice.”

The budget appropriates over $500 thousand for USI’s Dual Credit program.

“As an educator, I recognize how valuable a college education can be for young people,” said Rep. McNamara. “Having the USI campus in my district, I wanted to do my part provide adequate funding for USI, particularly for their Dual Credit program, which will help even more students realize their goal of a college diploma on their way to successful careers.”

The state will also provide over $3 million through the biennium to Indiana University to expand the School of Medicine in the Evansville region.

“Expanding the IU School of Medicine in the Evansville region is fantastic,” said Rep. Bacon. “As a medical professional, I am strongly in favor of increasing opportunities for young people to also join this incredibly rewarding field.”