CSU Applauds Passage of FY2026 Illinois State Budget Supporting Higher Education

CHICAGO – [June 9, 2025] – Chicago State University (CSU) commends Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois General Assembly for their continued commitment to public higher education through the passage of the Fiscal Year 2026 state budget.

The approved budget reflects the state’s sustained investment in academic institutions and student success, including:

• A 1% increase in operational funding for Chicago State University, totaling an additional $401,300. The legislation also authorizes a potential increase of up to 2% based on future state revenue availability.
• $721 million in funding for Monetary Award Program (MAP) grants, representing a $10 million increase from last year, ensuring greater access to higher education for students across Illinois.
• $7 million in funding for the Mental Health Early Action on Campus Act, maintaining support for mental health initiatives at four-year institutions, including CSU.

“Increased investment in Illinois’ students today ensures our state’s competitiveness and economic strength in the years to come,” said President Zaldwaynaka (“Z”) Scott, JD. “We are deeply grateful to Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly for their leadership and vision. This budget is especially critical for CSU, as we navigate the impact of recent federal funding policy decisions.”

President Scott emphasized that state funding plays a vital role in enabling the university to fulfill its mission of providing access, equity, and excellence in education—particularly for historically underserved communities.

Chicago State University remains committed to advancing student achievement, fostering innovation, and contributing to the growth and well-being of Illinois.

About Chicago State University

CSU, founded in 1867, is the oldest public university in the Chicago Metropolitan area. The University’s four colleges offer over 50 undergraduate and graduate degree-granting and non-degree programs. CSU is committed to equity in education, serving as the only U.S. Department of Education-designated four-year Predominantly Black Institution in Illinois and ranked by a Harvard economist in the top 4% of public and private universities nationwide in supporting our graduates’ economic mobility. The University serves as a prominent civic space on the greater South Side of Chicago by hosting a multitude of athletic, educational, cultural, and recreational activities. The University is located near public transit that provides convenient access to the