h3. Open forums
Nov. 6 at California State University, Dominguez Hills
Nov. 13 at George Mason University
Nov. 15 at the University of Northern Iowa
Nov.21 at Louisiana State University
The U.S. Department of Education announced today a plan to improve affordability for college students, a cause Ball State President Jo Ann Gora has continued to fight for during her 10 years in office.
The department is looking to gather public input on ways to combat the “rising college cost” for American families. This proposal is in reference to President Barack Obama’s August creation of a new college value and affordability plan, according to a press release.
“One of the best ways to address the challenges to our higher education system is through shared input,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said. “We plan to engage as many stakeholder groups and individuals as possible to help us develop proposals.”
In order to receive this shared input, the department will host four open forums at universities around the nation.
Indiana Congressman Luke Messer authorized the Improving Postsecondary Education Data for Students Act, which is included in the legislation the Department of Education is looking for public input on.
Messer said while Washington should do whatever it can to lower the cost for university students, college presidents are another line of defense for the rising tuition rates.
“Providing affordable access to a quality education,” is one of the toughest jobs facing any university president, Messer said.
He said the college rating system outlined in the bill will allow potential college students to access the information they need, permitting them to make “the best decision they can when it comes to their education.”
The Education Department will also ask experts to give their opinions on the college rating system created to inform students and motivate institutions to better themselves, according to the press release.
Washington also needs to continue to ensure that technological advancements are a part of any college curriculum to keep students competitive in the workforce, Messer said, which is something he said Ball State does well.
“I certainly think Ball State is doing a great job at producing top notch graduates who will shape America’s future,” he said.
Messer said Ball State’s emphasis on immersive learning, the capstone of Gora’s presidency, gives students “an invaluable head start on others entering the 21st century workplace.”
Gora announced Saturday that she will retire in 2014 and Messer said he has had a “very solid and open working relationship” with the her.
He said the duo first worked together on a Higher Education policy committee when he was a state legislator.
“She has made a tremendous impact on the university,” he said. “She’s been a trailblazer and a leader in higher education for the state of Indiana.”
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