Illinois treasurer to host forum for affordable education
January 27, 2020
To understand how to make college more affordable, Illinois treasurer Michael Frerichs will host a “Forum on Investing in Illinois Students” Monday morning.
The forum will take place in the Illini Union, 1401 W. Green St. in Illini Room B from 10 a.m.- noon.
According to a press release from the Office of the Illinois State Treasurer, Frerichs will be gaining information from students, graduates and financial aid experts to find out how to best implement a new law, the Student Investment Account Act, that would make college affordable for low-income and middle-income families.
In addition to Frerichs, others who will be in attendance include Professor Jennifer Delaney, Seth Frotman from Student Borrower Protection Center, University graduate Joanna Piphus and Caitlin MacLean from Milken Institute.
MacLean is the moderator for the forum.
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The forum at the University is one of multiple throughout the state where Frerichs will hear first-hand of challenges college students face.
According to the press release, up to 5% of the state portfolio ($750 million) was authorized by lawmakers for the state treasurer to use to invest in making higher education more affordable and easing student loan debt.
The first investment is expected to happen in 2021, which will incorporate suggestions and information from the forums held this year.
“Refinancing options for student loan debt is one of the main topics being explored,” the press release stated.
