Letter to Students

Dear Students of Adams State University:
Let me ask you a stupid question: Are you tired of tuition increasing every year, and of financial aid becoming harder to qualify for?
Next week you will have the chance to tell the Colorado Commission on Higher Education (CCHE) just how this situation impacts you. The CCHE is creating a new formula for dividing state funds among public institutions of higher education. The formula goes into effect July 1, 2015. To inform this process, the CCHE is reaching out to communities across the state. They are holding a public meeting at Adams State next Wednesday, October 1, from 6-8 p.m. in the Student Union Building First Floor banquet rooms. I urge you to attend and speak up.
Nationwide, tuition increases are a direct result of cuts in state support. Colorado ranks 47th in its funding level per student. Despite some economic recovery, Colorado’s funding for higher education is only at the 1998 level (adjusted for inflation). Combined with changes in federal financial aid eligibility, these cuts have hit you, our students, particularly hard.
We at Adams State know we cannot keep raising tuition to make up for state funding cuts.
Your voice as a student is crucial in communicating this to the state. Please attend the October 1 meeting to describe how Colorado’s diminished support of higher education impacts your ability to earn a degree.
We need your help to assure Adams State University – and you as a student – receive a fair share of future state funding.

Most sincerely,

Dr. David Svaldi
President
Adams State University
Detailed information on the Funding Project for Higher Education can be found online at: highered.colorado.gov/Publications/General/1319/default.html.