Quinn Says He’ll Act on U of I Trustees “Within the Week

Governor Pat Quinn continues to hint that the days could be numbered for University of Illinois trustees who don't heed his request to resign. He says a decision will be made by the time school starts next week.

"I look forward to making sure our University of Illinois' good name is always protected, and I think that's paramount," said Quinn Tuesday at the Illinois State Fair in Springfield. "The university had educated many, many people. They are comprised of excellent faculty and hard working students. We're proud of each and every one. We want to make sure the university's good name is not besmirched. And so it's important that the governor stand up for that principle and I will do so within the week.":

Three trustees have already resigned, including Chairman Niranjan Shah. Quinn has been urging the remaining six to quit for more than a week. So far, they haven't stepped down.

A state panel recommended all the trustees should go amid allegations that some pushed for less qualified students to be admitted to the school.

Quinn has been cagey about what he'll do if the trustees don't quit. But he said he has no doubt he has the power to remove them.

When Quinn was asked if there was a chance he wouldn't remove the remaining trustees, he answered - in his words -- not to "hold your breath.''

---Additional reporting by Illinois Public Radio