SIU President Randy Dunn says next month's budget address in Springfield will still likely include a call for dramatic cuts - but he says there are some signs that make him optimistic.
Dunn says drastic cuts in state funding for public colleges and universities forces them to behave more like private institutions - effectively shutting out many low and middle income students.
"It's worrisome in terms of access for students in southern Illinois. To wit, you lose state support, tuition and fees get jacked up. It increases the need for loans, and builds debt on the back of students."
Rumors of up to 20% funding reductions have been circling since before Governor Bruce Rauner was sworn in earlier this month.
Dunn says it's still very early in the process, and points out the legislature crafts its own budget, and negotiates with the Governor - so the Budget Address is not the final word on the matter.