Governor Quinn Announces Investment in Aurora University

AURORA - Governor Pat Quinn today announced investments totaling $2.1 million for Aurora University. The funds are part of Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program, and today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to improve higher education, create jobs and drive Illinois' economy forward.

"Investments in Aurora University will help the university stay competitive and continue to prepare students for 21st century careers," Governor Quinn said. "The STEM center and Nursing Simulation Lab will prepare students for in-demand careers in rapidly growing fields, and help Illinois maintain the well-educated workforce that attracts businesses from around the world."

A $1,926,392 investment will be used for the ongoing construction of a residence hall and STEM center. An additional $200,000 investment will help the ongoing construction of a Nursing Simulation Lab to help train nursing students. The funds will be administered by the Illinois Capital Development Board.

"All of us appreciate the ongoing support of Governor Quinn and our elected legislators," University President Rebecca L. Sherrick said. "We know that their investment will pay dividends for our students and their communities for years to come."

So far under Governor Quinn's Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program, private universities have received $300 million to address their capital needs.

Governor Quinn's $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! program is supporting more than 439,000 jobs over six years. Illinois Jobs Now! is the largest capital construction program in Illinois history, and is one of the largest capital construction programs in the nation.