Over the last two years, WMU has lost ground in the pursuit of equity by almost any measure. Among all 15 public universities, WMU ranks 13 th in per student percentage increases The increasing disparity is not necessarily the result of the tier system, but stems from a fundamental flaw in our higher education funding history. We have yet to embrace any plan that distributes funds based on growth. While higher education is more complex than a simple per student formula, we must continue moving toward a funding system where state dollars follow students. Western Michigan University has the unique distinction of facing all of these challenges.
Less emphasis needs to be placed on percentage increases among each institution.
More attention should be focused on universities reaching their respective floors and progress toward closing gaps. WMU, starting below our floor, was given additional floor funding. I hope you will consider this question in your deliberations. In summary, the tier system has brought needed focus to the equity issues in Michigan's higher education system. I hope the committee will improve on the system by looking at the continuing challenges surrounding equity and floor funding.