[노스웨스트미주리주립대학교]Board of Regents approves fees for 2018-2019 academic year /Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State University’s Board of Regents during its regular meeting Friday approved the University’s fees for the 2018-2019 academic year.

The fees consist of Student Senate-approved designated fees aimed at improving organizational viability and miscellaneous fees for revenue-generating services and internal services provided by University departments.

The designated fees approved Friday by the Board and approved April 3 by Northwest’s Student Senate consist of an increase of $1 per credit hour to support the operational needs of Safe Ride Home and expand its service times; an increase of $1.75 per credit hour to support Northwest’s student employment program, help cover minimum wage increases and increase the number of positions available on campus; and an increase of $2.50 per credit hour to enhance technology security and access needs.

Presenting the fee proposals to the Board, Northwest Vice President of Finance State Carrick said administrators offer multiple options for the Student Senate to consider. She said students requested the highest fee option for Safe Ride and a fee increase to student employment beyond the University’s proposal.

“Our students do a very good job of engaging and understanding what we’re bringing forward and push us in areas where they see value in programs,” Carrick said.

Northwest’s miscellaneous fees include items and services such as athletics tickets, facility rentals, parking, and caps and gowns for the University’s commencement ceremonies. Carrick explained the University’s finance department works with departments throughout the year to evaluate revenues, expenses and fees for various programs and services.

The Board’s approval of the student-approved fees follows its vote last month to book a 2.1 percent tuition increase for undergraduate students in 2018-19, based on the allowable Consumer Price Index (CPI) and a Missouri statute that limits the state’s colleges and universities from raising tuition above CPI. The booked 2.1 amount is subject to the amount of state appropriations approved in the final budget and actual state appropriations awarded throughout the fiscal year.

Regents last month also approved discipline-specific program fees and an increase to room and board by an average of 2.5 percent, depending on the residence halls and meal plans students select.

In other business, the Board approved a multiyear contract with Jetz Service Company for new residential laundry equipment to be installed in residential buildings on campus prior to the start of the fall trimester. The contract also includes maintenance and repair services.

The Board also approved candidates due to receive bachelor’s, master’s and specialist degrees during the University’s spring commencement ceremonies April 27-28 and faculty appointments for the summer trimester.

The Board of Regents is responsible for sound resource management of the University and determining general, educational and financial policies.