CMU calls budget ‘historic investment’

State Rep. Jerry Neyer on Friday highlighted significant investments for Central Michigan University (CMU) within the House Higher Education Budget that passed earlier this month. The $2.2 billion budget plan raises funding for CMU by 26%, a $25 million increase.

“Michigan has some of the best colleges and universities in the country, and Central Michigan is at the top of that list,” said Neyer, R-Shepherd. “The Senate gave many colleges and universities the cold shoulder in their budget, ignoring that many Michigan graduates attend these universities. While we know there is a lot of negotiating ahead of us, our House plan shows that we are committed to ensuring every Michigan college and university prioritizing Michigan graduates will have the resources they need to succeed.”

Neyer said the budget was part of a larger effort to encourage Michigan high school graduates to stay in Michigan for college. Most of Michigan’s colleges and universities would receive significant increases under the budget plan.

“Central Michigan University is committed to keeping higher education within reach for Michigan students and their families, and we appreciate the House’s proposed historic increase in investment in CMU’s mission to promote the success of our graduates and the communities we serve,” Central Michigan University officials said through a written statement. “Thank you to Speaker Matt Hall, Chairwoman Ann Bollin, Sub-Committee Chair Greg Markkanen, and Representative Jerry Neyer for their efforts. As a Carnegie classified Opportunity University offering tremendous access and career outcomes for students, CMU looks forward to working with our partners at Michigan’s public universities and with our state leaders to develop a budget that further increases access and affordability.”

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