Some public universities say they’re stretched too thin because of Illinois’ ongoing budget crisis. Southern Illinois University has struggled to negotiate contracts with two employees’ unions. SIU President Glenn Poshard blames the state for not paying money it owes to universities.

“The state’s been in a terrible condition. We’ve been in a terrible condition,” Poshard said. “We’re trying to pay our bills. We’re trying to maintain our programs. You know, and we need help and we’re asking everybody to help a little bit. Some folks have chosen not to.”

Meanwhile, a Northern Illinois University spokesman says faculty there have become disgruntled over state funding and are preparing to quit.

Illinois lawmakers have been asking university presidents to come up with a list of programs that are expendable.