MADISON, Wis.—University of Wisconsin System President Jay Rothman issued this statement today:
“We appreciate the action the legislature’s budget-writing committee took today to approve several facilities for the UW System. However, for Wisconsin to compete and prosper, we must invest in high-demand programs at all our universities. UW-Madison’s engineering building is our top priority for a reason. Investing in this facility will help address a crucial workforce shortage in the state as well as enhance the world-class research that draws talent into our state and drives economic vibrancy. We will continue to champion this vital project.”
The University of Wisconsin System serves approximately 161,000 students. Awarding nearly 37,000 degrees annually, the UW System is Wisconsin’s talent pipeline, putting graduates in position to increase their earning power, contribute to their communities, and make Wisconsin a better place to live. Nearly 90 percent of in-state UW System graduates stay in Wisconsin five years after earning a degree – with a median salary of more than $66,000. The UW System provides a 23:1 return on state investment. UW System universities also contribute to the richness of Wisconsin’s culture and economy with groundbreaking research, new companies and patents, and boundless creative intellectual energy.