The week old “Fund EIU” movement has “grown dramatically” since its inception last Thursday.

Student Vice President Catie Witt, a junior political science major, was worried about apathy on campus but has seen students who don’t normally get involved sharing their story and why “they are EIU.”

Friday’s student-planned rally will include a gathering of a huge group students speaking on why they “love EIU.”

Speakers will include Witt, Student Body President Shirmeen Ahmad, a junior journalism and political science major, and junior political science major Austin Mejdrich.

Kate Klipp, a Charleston resident and 2007 Eastern graduate, said the reaction from the community has been positive.

Witt said that if Eastern closes, it’s going to have negative effects.

Rep. Reggie Phillips, (R-Charleston) will be in attendance, along with nearly 500 confirmed attendees on Facebook, as of press time.

Eastern President David Glassman is tentatively scheduled to attend after completing his workday.

Senior political science major Jack Cruikshank said he was, “amazed by the amount of support from Eastern and surrounding communities.”

“I am very excited for the potential this rally has,” he said.

After the rally, the plan is for students to take over and turn the movement into an RSO, though Witt said she was hopeful it would be over sooner rather than later.

“We need to get this (budget) passed before we work on next year’s budget which is due June 1,” Witt said.

The University Police Department will cease ticketing Friday at 3:30 p.m. for vehicles parked in valid spaces. No parking in drives or on grass will be allowed.

Jason Howell can be reached at 581-2812 or at [email protected]