<p>Hello all,</p>
<p>As part of a school project, I am researching something called the Wisconsin Idea. This concept, stemming from Robert La Follette and the Progressive Party, emphasizes the value of a strong state flagship university. The benefits of a well-funded state university are numerous, the argument goes, as institutions of higher learning provide research advances, jobs, and relatively inexpensive educational opportunities for state residents.</p>
<p>As a New Jersey resident, I thought that I would first survey those affiliated with Rutgers to see what they thought of the state's level of funding for the university. Primarily, I'm interested in seeing if the recent reduction in state aid has affected life at Rutgers. I realize that budget issues are always a bit of a controversial topic, but I'm just curious to see what parents, students, alumni, and other knowledgable parties think about the level of funding that Rutgers receives. Thanks in advance.</p>