Administration officials announced Tuesday they are still unsure whether ongoing state budget shortfalls will require University students to face an additional $3 tuition surcharge in spring term.
In a meeting with ASUO officials, University Provost John Moseley and Vice President and Dean of Students Anne Leavitt said the University is still in dire financial straits, but the Oregon Legislature may introduce a new plan that would allow the University to avoid further surcharges.
“The good news is that the Legislature, in working through this special session … is looking at one-time balances — spending balances, reserves and that sort of thing,” Moseley said. “At least there is a possibility, and we should know within a couple weeks if they got to resolve this (and) that we won’t have to take another budget cut.”
The University has already faced about $6 million in cuts after Measure 28, on top of $7 million previously slashed for this academic year. To compensate for the cuts resulting from Measure 28’s failure, a $10 surcharge has already been instituted for winter and spring terms to maintain quality of and access to classes.
Moseley said the University has worked hard to keep the quality of student academic programs at the same level while slogging through budget woes. He added, however, that if the future budget shortfalls threaten quality, and the Legislature doesn’t pad the blow, he would not hesitate to institute the surcharge.
“As I’ve told (ASUO President Rachel Pilliod) all along, I’m going to do everything I can to avoid adding to the surcharge, and I will only do it if I’m in a position where it’s the only way I can assure that scheduled classes are available spring term,” Moseley said.
Pilliod was concerned about student notification of a possible surcharge, verifying with Moseley that students will receive a letter in their March tuition bills that explains the budget situation and the possibility of further surcharges.
ASUO State Affairs Coordinator Adam Petkun also asked Moseley what could be done in the future to ensure that students are brought to the table when tuition and enrollment issues are discussed.
Moseley said he would “think about” a more concrete method of shared governance, such as a written statement guaranteeing student involvement, but added that he would not sacrifice financial aid or classes to avoid the surcharge — even if a group of students supported it.
“In the end, the truth is I have to make that decision, and we’re not going to vote on tuition. But I’m going to discuss it with you and let you know what the choices are,” Moseley said. “I think that your role really is in giving me your advice and discussing it with me. And I’m happy to have meetings like this, probably as frequently as you’d be willing to have them.”