u Tuition increased 6 percent for the second straight year
By SARAH NESTOR
News Writer
The Saint Mary's Board of Trustees approved a 6 percent tuition increase for the second straight year at its February meeting last week.
"The primary factor in raising the student fees is positioning and looking at similar institutions. Saint Mary's is lagging behind when looking at costs of similar budget-size institutions," said Keith Dennis, vice president of finance and administration.
Tuition will jump to $20,550 in 2002-2003, a $1,310 increase from the 2001-2002 amount of $19,240.
Including tuition, fees, room and board, the average total cost next year will be $27,642. The average 2001-2002 total was $25,939.
The tuition increase will go in part towards increasing funding for financial aid and for increasing salary for faculty and staff.
Melanie Engler, director of public relations, said the increase would not go towards funding the new student center, which the Board also approved at its meeting last week.
The Board approved a 5 percent increase in the amount of money available for staff and faculty salaries.
Three percent of the increase will be divided evenly between all staff employees.
The remaining 2 percent will be distributed to bring employees up to or above their target salary. If an employee is already at their target salary, they will receive a 3 percent salary increase.
All News Stories for Tuesday, February 26, 2002
