I agree- In the context of the subject of this thread, I think there should be enough transparency and objectivity that @kmmord should have the information to see in general terms where these increased number of merit awards that did not have a need component went. I think anyone has a right to be slightly disappointed if their in-state child received zero merit scholarship money at all from UIUC despite having the stats to earn the objective presidential elite free ride plus stipend award at Alabama. Otherwise, why wouldn’t taxpayers and tuition payers assume it’s like the admissions scandal of 10 years ago, with big donors and those with political clout or university connections or other hooks receiving at least some “merit-based” awards?
Personally, I’d be happy with a 4 more years of tuition freeze to make resident tuition in line with other top B1G schools, but it would also be nice to see the merit situation more competitive with other state flagships. UIUC has solid funding and endowments to make these happen.