Gov. Snyder Meets With 15 University Presidents

Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder says universities likely will have to sacrifice in the short run, but he wants to invest more in higher education when times get better.

The Republican governor met Wednesday with the presidents of the 15 state universities who make up the Presidents Council. They say they're ready to help Snyder boost economic development.

Michigan Technological University President Glen Mroz said in a statement that the meeting set a positive tone for the relationship between universities and the new Snyder administration.

Snyder spoke about the projected $1.8 billion shortfall but didn't give any details on what he plans for universities in the next budget.

State funding for university operations has dropped 12 percent over the past eight years, while tuition has risen an average of 80 percent.

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