Hiring a key to maintaining university excellence

See also: Q&A: Ward explains Madison Initiative benefits Budget Summary New resources expected to aid recruiting of faculty and academic staff

The Madison Initiative will target five key areas for investment over the next fours years:

Recruit and retain key faculty
The university proposes to hire more than 100 new faculty in targeted areas over the next four years to maintain its reputation as one of the top public universities in the nation.

To demonstrate commitment to the state for this new public-private partnership, UW–Madison authorized the hiring of 32 new faculty members last year with private funds.

Enhance research and instruction
In the final two years, introductory biotechnology courses will be expanded to meet the increasing demand for biology instruction. Instructional labs in several facilities are being upgraded.

Strengthen advising, libraries and instructional technology
Funding for libraries will be used for acquiring additional electronic resources, expanding library acquisitions and expanding document delivery service.

Other funding will be used to add instructional technology workers and provide training; enhance undergraduate academic and career advising; and expand pre-college programs.

Increase financial aid to students
Additional financial aid will ensure that all undergraduates eligible for need-based grants are held harmless from any tuition increase associated with this proposal.

Renovate and maintain buildings
Funding for preventive maintenance, reconditioning and energy conservation will be used to ensure that the university’s existing facilities are well-maintained.