1.$2.1 Billion: The total budget allocated to the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system in the current fiscal year. This represents a significant investment in higher education for the state.

2. 17: The number of institutions within the CSCU system, encompassing community colleges, state universities, and regional campuses. This network provides access to higher education for a diverse student population across Connecticut.

3. 75,000: The approximate number of students enrolled in the CSCU system, highlighting its role in providing educational opportunities to a significant portion of the state’s population.

4. 5: The number of areas identified by Governor Ned Lamont in his request for a performance audit of the CSCU system. These areas include student enrollment, graduation rates, affordability, and program effectiveness.

5. 2023: The year in which the audit is expected to be completed, providing a comprehensive assessment of the CSCU system’s performance and identifying potential areas for improvement.

Governor Lamont’s request for an audit reflects growing concerns about the efficiency and effectiveness of the CSCU system. The audit is expected to scrutinize key metrics like student success, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with the needs of Connecticut’s workforce. The results of the audit will be crucial in shaping future policy decisions and investments within the state’s higher education system, potentially leading to changes in program offerings, funding allocation, and student support services.