Tim Killeen, University of Illinois System president, sent out a Massmail Wednesday evening addressing the University’s active monitoring of proposed changes to federal funding.
The Massmail came after President Donald Trump initiated a federal spending freeze on Tuesday. The directive ignited uncertainty on college campuses about student financial aid.
According to the University’s website, 70% of the University’s undergraduate students receive a form of federal aid.
“Next week, I will travel to Washington, D.C., for meetings with the federal relations team and members of our congressional delegation to learn more about what we should anticipate and how all of us might be affected,” Killeen said in the Massmail.
The Trump administration said the freeze would not impact federal services like Medicaid, student loans and food stamps. Shortly after Trump announced the plan, U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan temporarily blocked the freeze for review.
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On Wednesday, the Trump administration rescinded the funding pause. However, uncertainty about the ramifications of a federal spending halt remains.
“We are working closely with the Illinois congressional delegation to understand this evolving landscape and to continue advocating for public higher education,” Killeen said. “Our elected leaders here in Illinois and their staffs, including the governor’s office, are also an invaluable resource for us right now.”
Killeen noted that updates will vary by University. He stated that students should listen to campus leaders as they receive more information.
“It is not yet possible to know the full extent of the implications, but know that across the U of I System, we remain committed to you: our students, staff, faculty, and our patients,” Killeen said.
