It’s no secret that these are difficult budgetary times — the state has reduced its support for UCF by nearly half during the past five years. This year, UCF faces a one-time $52.6 million state budget cut, on top of almost $100 million in permanent cuts from previous years. Unless something is done, students will see larger classes and less time with professors. Fewer courses and instructors will lead to graduation delays, which is why I support a 15 percent tuition increase to help fight the effects of state budget cuts. If approved, the added tuition will result in $20 million for UCF. About $14 million will go to what matters most to our students — vital courses, programs and support for undergraduate students. The remaining funds will be distributed to students as need-based financial aid. Without differential tuition, UCF will be very different — 112 faculty positions and 550 classes will be affected. Diminished financial aid will hurt those who need it most.
http://www.centralfloridafuture.com/opinion/tuition-hike-needed-to-offset-budget-cuts-1.2740857
