In Other Words: Higher education in N.O.

New Orleans CityBusiness, Jul 7, 2008 by Jennifer Nall

Randy Moffett

-- President, University of Louisiana System (former Southeastern Louisiana University president)

Public universities have not had a tuition increase since 2005. Rising costs for energy and many other commodities have their impact on universities, just as they do on every family. Since our tuition is more than 30 percent below the average of our peer institutions in the South, we expect Southeastern to be eligible for the 5 percent increase. That will have a considerable impact on our operations, allowing us to retain and attract highly qualified faculty in all areas and to institute other academic improvements for the benefit of our students.

Timothy P. Ryan

-- Chancellor, University of New Orleans

With new revenue available to public universities so limited, and costs of providing a top-notch education to our students constantly rising, tuition increases are the only means for our institutions to increase revenue to meet those rising costs. This particular bill is going to ensure that the quality of education we provide for our students meets the highest standards. It also ensures we can retain highly qualified faculty. Even with slightly higher tuition, a UNO education, compared to our peers, is a tremendous value.

Gerald Williams

-- Vice chancellor, Southern University at New Orleans

It is very vital, especially in our situation because we are still in a recovery stage from Hurricane Katrina. As a result of the increase in fuel, operating costs have increased. The increase in tuition will help to cover increases in expenses.