ASUAF updates and outlook
January 29, 2020
— by Bernard Aoto, president, Associated Students of the University of Alaska Fairbanks
Welcome back to another exciting semester here at UAF! Now that the seas have calmed and everyone has settled into their class schedules I want to make sure that ASUAF is doing everything we can to make this semester great for you. I want to update the student body on some recent university events that I feel are important to you all as well as outline some of the goals that we have set for this semester.
First, the University of Alaska Board of Regents decided on Jan. 17. to approve a 5% increase to resident undergraduate upper- and lower-division tuition for the academic year 2021. What this means is that in-state undergraduate students taking 100- to 400-level courses will see their tuition raised $11 per credit for 100- to 200-level classes and $13 per credit for 300- to 400-level classes. Graduate and nonresident tuition rates will remain the same.
This increase will also be accompanied by the 20% surcharge assessed to all engineering and management courses, which is the same from previous years. Preceding this decision, ASUAF issued a statement and resolution to UAF and UA administration as well as the Board of Regents opposing any such increase. However, we were unable to mobilize enough support for this position and for that we are sorry.
Second, ASUAF will be conducting surveys, focus groups and forums at the Troth Yeddha campus, CTC and eventually rural campuses to gather the many student concerns that we have individually heard from our friends and classmates. The reason for this is to respond to UAF administration that has been requesting data regarding ASUAF’s advocacy and policy positions. We have been talking with and meeting with administration regarding issues related to Dining Services, Residence Life, Transportation Services and Parking Services, and we want to make sure we are accurately representing you and advocating for what you want.
Last, I want to reiterate my challenge to students this semester as it will be my last. First, get to know the students representing you and look to them to provide you the information you want. Second, if there is something you don’t agree with on campus, ask questions, have a conversation and encourage answers. Finally, do whatever you can to ensure that the UAF community is, or continues to be, something that you are satisfied with and proud of.
I hope to see my fellow 2020 graduates on the stage in May as we enter the next chapter of our lives, and for those who are not yet there, it won’t be too long before you are. Take every opportunity you have to get the most out of your time here at UAF, whether that be experiencing an athletics game, joining a club, listening to a world-renowned lecturer or exploring the great Alaska outdoors, take control of your experience and you will not regret it!