Rep. Burke Secures Release of MAP Grants for Local College Students

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Local colleges are the big benefactors in the release of over $327 million enabling thousands of students across Illinois to continue their college education. Rep. Kelly Burke (36th District) announced the release of funding for the MAP Grant program, which enables low-income students to pursue a college education. The state’s budget crisis halted funding for the MAP Grant program, jeopardizing the education of more than 100,000 Illinois students.

“As chair of the Appropriations-Higher Education Committee, I have been fighting for the past three years to protect funding for the MAP Grant program, which helps thousands of students across Illinois continue their education,” the Evergreen Park state lawmaker said in a news release. “I am happy these funds are finally being released so that these students can continue their education.”

The bipartisan budget that Burke supported includes $327 million for the MAP Grant program. Included in release of funds is $6.6 million for Saint Xavier University in Chicago and $1.7 million for Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills to cover the MAP grants.

“We at Saint Xavier University appreciate Representative Burke and the other legislators’ dedication to Illinois students and their commitment to ending this budget crisis”, said Laurie Joyner, president of Saint Xavier University. “Because of their leadership, over 1,000 students at SXU and over 100,000 students across Illinois will be able to continue their education and achieve their dreams.”