Governor Quinn Visits Bradley University to Discuss Plan to Increase College Scholarships for Students in Financial Need

Press Release

Governor Pat Quinn today visited Bradley University to discuss his plan to double the state's investment in the Monetary Award Program (MAP) -- which provides college scholarships to qualified students in financial need -- over the next five years. In the first year alone, Governor Quinn's plan will provide 21,000 more students with an opportunity to attend college that would not otherwise be available. Today's event is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to ensure all people have access to a quality education.

"Investing in scholarships means investing in students and our economic future," Governor Quinn said. "Whether it's a private or public university or community college, doubling our funding for MAP grants will lead to more college diplomas in the hands of deserving students. We need to make sure our young adults have a clear path towards earning a degree and joining the 21st century workforce."

Governor Quinn proposed doubling the state's investment in MAP during his 2014 State of the State address and backed up this commitment in his annual budget proposal. The state currently allocates $373 million for MAP grants, which benefit more than 140,000 students across the state. The Governor's Fiscal Year 2015 budget calls for an increase of $50 million, which will give 21,000 more students access to MAP grants. Approximately 58 percent of MAP recipients are considered to have no resources available to pay for college.

During the Governor's visit today he discussed the importance of the MAP Grant program for Bradley University's students. Nearly 30 percent of Bradley's 4,900 undergraduate students receive MAP grants.

Since taking office, Governor Quinn has fought to preserve education from radical budget cuts, and built and repaired 978 schools. In his budget address this year, Governor Quinn laid out an honest and responsible budget for the next fiscal year along with a five-year blueprint that will secure the state's finances for the long-term, provide significant tax relief to homeowners and working families and invest like never before in education and early childhood.

Students can apply for MAP, Pell Grants and other forms of financial aid by completing and filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Contact ISAC at (800) 899-4722 or visit www.isac.org for more information.

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