On behalf of the ISU Government of the Student Body, we would like to encourage the students, faculty, staff and friends of Iowa State to voice their opinions on the proposed 5.2 percent tuition increase to the Board of Regents.

The proposed 5.2 percent tuition increase is comprised of two components. The first component is associated with the inflationary costs of colleges and universities, which the board office contends is 3.2 percent. The second component is the remaining 2 percent “quality factor” increase, to aid the university in its aspirations of becoming the best land-grant institution in the nation.

We have done considerable research to refute the figures used in calculating the 5.2 percent tuition increase. In reality, the estimated Higher Education Price Index, the inflationary costs for colleges and universities for the next fiscal year is forecasted to be approximately 3 percent.

The “quality factor” of 2 percent is seemingly arbitrary, according to information in the regents’ docket. We all want this university to achieve success to ensure that our education is “worth” something after we graduate. Although becoming our best as students and as an institution is a magnificent goal, financially, the tuition increase is too much, too soon for many students and their families.

Increasing the debt of students or having to work more hours at a job instead of studying or participating in one of countless activities on campus and in the community prohibits us from becoming our best.

Anyone wanting to take an active role in the ongoing tuition debate is welcome to join us at the next Board of Regents meeting to be held at the University of Northern Iowa on Oct. 21 and 22. If you are unable to attend the Board of Regents meeting, we still encourage you to voice your opinion regarding the tuition increase. GSB has prepared postcards for those wishing to express their opinion to the board members.

For more information on the proposed tuition increase or for information on how to send a postcard to the Board of Regents, please contact the Government of the Student Body Office located in G43 of the East Student Office Space of the Memorial Union or call 294-1585.

Bryan Burkhardt

GSB President

Jamal White

GSB Vice President