Editorial
Segregated fee increases largely beneficial for all
February 17, 2012
Attending various events on campus is absolutely fundamental to making the most of your time as a student here at UW-River Falls. It seems to be the consensus among far too many students that an unawareness of events occurring is the main hindrance in increasing attendance numbers. The Student Voice would like to encourage students to take an active interest in the URWF campus and all it has
to offer.
According to the UWRF website, attending events and participating in campus activities is an important part of the educational experience at UWRF. Students who chose to participate and attend campus activities and events are generally more satisfied with their overall college experience. Students who participate and attend activities and events also have countless opportunities to gain new skills, experiences and perspectives. Segregated fees are charges, in addition to instructional fees, assessed to all students for services, programs and facilities that support the mission of UWRF. Segregated fees are divided into allocable and non-allocable. Allocable fees support mainly student-organized activities, such as student government or student organizations. Non-allocable fees provide the main support for student-services operations and facilities, such as Student Health Services or the University Center.
Students have the primary responsibility for the formulation of allocable segregated fee budgets, in consultation with the Chancellor and subject to final confirmation by the UW-System Board of Regents. Final recommendations on non-allocable budgets rest with campus administration, although students have the opportunity to participate in the review process.
As such, there has been talk lately concerning segregated fee increases on campus, which would benefit the UC, Falcon athletics and the childcare facility. Student Senate is in the process of discussing the possibility of these fee increases, and is requesting student input on the matter. Students are encouraged to attend the Student Senate meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 21 in the Willow River Room at the UC to voice their opinions. A list of current segregated fee prices is available on the Student Affairs website.
The Voice supports the increase of these segregated fees in order to better various programs available for students. The Voice would also like to reiterate how wonderfully beneficial involvement on campus can be for all.