Ball State administrators have claimed that their proposed $1,000 tuition increase for new students simply mimics the actions taken by Purdue and Indiana Universities, but judging from one Purdue professor's comments, Ball State has not copied Purdue in one critical aspect.
"The president and Board of Trustees still decide, but it's a very transparent process," said Otto Doering, a Purdue professor and member of Indiana's Commission for Higher Education. He said Purdue's decision to levy a $1,000 increase was widely discussed within Purdue's senate and in public sessions.
"It was made very clear where the money would go. The need was demonstrated. While I wouldn't say the students were happy, they understood it. It's hard to believe in something if we don't understand it."
At Ball State, administrators have instead kept quiet on the issue. The need for a tuition increase may be legitimate - it is difficult to make up for a $26 million shortfall in state funding - but students and faculty have a right to know why this increase is the best option. The funds will go toward the university's strategic plan, but students and faculty should know what that plan entails.
Even though this only affects new students, this could affect the families of students whose siblings follow them to Ball State.
The vote on this has been delayed until Sept. 26. In the meantime, Ball State administrators should take the time to present a case, while students and faculty should take the time to listen.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
