ASUW President Brett Kahler wasn’t deterred by the small turnout at Tuesday’s town hall meeting. He went on as planned, discussing UW’s planned tuition increase.
Kahler handed out sheets portraying what an increase of tuition from 2 to 10 percent would look like for resident and non-resident students.
ASUW’s aim is to get an idea of how the student body feels about an increase in tuition. Kahler said it was important to know what percentage of students, if any, would be support an increase, as well as where they think the money should be allocated.
“University trustees and administrators are looking at what would happen if we raised tuition,” said Kahler. “ASUW is not trying to raise tuition, but we are trying to get input.”
Kahler said the current status of scholarships does not accurately reflect the price of tuition.
“We don’t run the Hathaway or other scholarships,” said Kahler. “It’s likely the first year or two that scholarship opportunities would remain the same while tuition would be higher.”
Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management undergrad Carter Nielson said he understands if the money is truly going to retain quality professors, but would not support an increase if it were to be allotted for such expenses as renovations.
“I think a small increase wouldn’t hurt us a bit if it goes to faculty,” said Nielsen. “To keep the faculty as well as hire new professors to help us get a better education would be beneficial for all of the students.”
Kahler brought to light the reality of the retention issue UW is facing and will continue to face if it does not offer any competition.
“If you look at Colorado State University, they have raised tuition hugely over the last four years,” said Kahler. “In order to compete and keep quality faculty, we need to offer better compensation.”
Students questioned whether or not any revenue could be compensated by the state. Kahler said a portion of the university’s funds come from the state, but the entirety of the amount needed would have to be a combination.
“A lot of revenue comes from the state of Wyoming but some comes from tuition dollars,” explained Kahler. “We are losing a lot of great faculty to places who are compensating them better.”
Tuition has gone up each year, but the board of trustees is looking at a more significant increase to bring in the revenue needed to make a real difference.
