Schools to fight separate research funding Nine Michigan universities have formed a coalition to fight a move by Michigan\'s three largest research universities to be moved into their own budget bill. The Education Alliance for Michigan announced its formation on Monday. The coalition includes Oakland University, Eastern Michigan University, Western Michigan University, Central Michigan University, Ferris State University, Grand Valley State University, Lake Superior State University, Michigan Technological University and Saginaw Valley State University. At issue is House Bill 4351, which embodies Gov. Jennifer Granholm\'s proposal to place funding for the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and Wayne State University in a separate appropriations bill.