PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- The Joint Committee on Appropriations of the South Dakota legislature heard from university presidents Tuesday.

University of South Dakota President Sheila Gestring was asked about mental health needs and resources they use.

Gestring says they are seeing rising demand for the mental health services.

Gestring also told the committee that their graduation rate continue to improve.

She also said their retention rate of returning students last year was at eighty one percent.

South Dakota State University President Barry Dunn said they continue to provide a big economic boost to the state.

Dunn says they had a pretty good research year.

Dunn told legislators that their spending last year paid off.

The Committee uses the information as they set the budget for the Board of Regents.