Many benefits to UWL

We probably don’t think about it much. Just what is the benefit of having a University of Wisconsin campus in La Crosse? A public forum in La Crosse featuring University System President Ray Cross this week examined that question. There are the obvious answers, such as the economic impact the university has on our community, as well as the jobs it provides. But the university’s connection to the community runs deeper than that. Many UWL graduates choose to live and work in La Crosse after college, contributing to our local economy. And the university does more than just teach students. Many conferences and symposiums are held at UWL, as well as the annual state track meet. These things wouldn’t happen if UWL weren’t here. Of course no one is suggesting we don’t need the university. But we do need to make sure it is well supported. That hasn’t been happening lately, with state imposed tuition freezes and state budget cuts hurting the bottom line. It is time to begin reinvesting in higher education in the state. As Rep. Jill Billings points out, every dollar spent on higher ed leads to a $10 return, and that is a good investment for Wisconsin taxpayers.