Freshmen, sophomores and juniors — rejoice! The University’s latest budget locks tuition increase rates for the next two years at the lowest level in 15 years.
We applaud AU’s recognition of student concerns and its work toward keeping AU at least somewhat-almost-maybe affordable.
Considering the toll the economic recession took on students and universities across the country, AU has weathered the storm admirably. AU’s first $1 billion budget demonstrates the University’s positive growth and signals its firm financial footing.
With these changes, AU will be at the lower end of the national average for tuition hikes — 3.8 percent vs. 4.3 percent. But even with the reasonable increase, AU’s tuition is still marching inexorably toward that frightening $50,000 mark.
AU must continue to make good on its goal of giving more need-based aid. As the University continues to grow and develop structurally, it is imperative to remember to help those that make all this possible — the students (and/or their parents) that pay for these changes — by keeping reasonable.
AU’s endowment is near the highest it has ever been and we look forward to increased aid and student investment in the coming years. However, we caution the University to remain focused on fiscal responsibility first.
In today’s ever-changing global economy, we’ve seen how quickly seemingly sound financial footing can crumble. This University has gained respect among peer institutions and students for weathering the recession without having to resort to layoffs or large tuition hikes.
If AU stays committed to responsible growth, this University can continue to prosper well into the future.
As we all hope to graduate from this fine institution in the near future, that’s a prospect every student should appreciate.
