Welch to Meet Public Policy Students, SIU Leadership during Carbondale Visit

CARBONDALE, Ill. – House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch will become the first Speaker to visit Southern Illinois University in nearly 20 years during a visit to the school's Carbondale campus this week. Welch will speak with public policy students and meet with University leadership.

"Southern Illinois University is a vibrant piece of our state's higher education infrastructure – in particular the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute, which has set many young leaders on their path," Welch said. "The success of SIU is also critical to the success of this entire region of our state, so I look forward to discussing what more the state can do to be a partner in this success."

Welch will address the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute and meet with University leadership to discuss the needs of the students, faculty and the community at large.

Even before he was elected Speaker, Welch prioritized higher education funding in state budgets. After years of disinvestment from the Rauner administration, Welch worked to restore funding for universities and expand access to financial aid, including MAP Grants and AIM HIGH Scholarships.

"When the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute began planning our 2022 Renewing Illinois Summit for college and university students, the first person we invited to participate was Representative Chris Welch," said Paul Simon Public Policy Institute director John Shaw. "Speaker Welch has a remarkable life story and cares passionately about the residents of the 7th District and the people of Illinois. He is an example--and an inspiration--for students who dream of good and consequential careers in public service."