New U of I president says fundraising is key

CHAMPAIGN -- New University of Illinois President Michael Hogan says he plans to work closely with lawmakers on financial issues but doesn't expect state government to provide much more money for higher education than it offers now.

State money accounts for 16 percent of the U of I's budget. So Hogan says that means he has no choice but to spend at least a quarter of his time as a fundraiser.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Hogan also said that despite the university's immediate financial demands he'll have to spend significant time on sports.

He called sports an important calling card for the university, one that needs to show results.

Hogan will take over in July after being president of the University of Connecticut.