The University of Wisconsin’s Board of Regents met yesterday to discuss financial aid, the importance of increasing study-abroad programs, and Wisconsin’s budget crisis.
UW System president Katharine C. Lyall presented the board with a new report, “Achieving Excellence,” and pointed out areas in which UW excels, such as attracting Wisconsin students, and those with which it struggles, such as promoting study-abroad programs.
The report contains four main goals for all UW colleges, which are to provide access to higher education for the citizens of Wisconsin, provide academic support services that facilitate academic success, provide a campus environment that fosters learning and personal growth, and utilize resources in an efficient and effective manner.
“We must work diligently to stay on target,” Lyall said to the board.
Advising for students and study-abroad opportunities were stressed during the meeting as not being up to par. The report said 8.5 percent of UW students study abroad, while the current goal is 25 percent.
After graduating, many students complain of not having a chance to converse with people of different backgrounds while in school, the report said. Lyall stressed the importance of the study-abroad program and said study-abroad opportunities increase students’ understanding of racial and ethnic differences.
“We’re challenged to find ways to have more undergraduates have study-abroad experiences,” Lyall said.
Voicing the concerns of many UW students, student Regent Tommie Jones Jr. said weak advising services were UW’s No. 1 problem.
However, the report did not overshadow UW’s positive points. Graduation and retention rates continue to increase every year, and one student from every Wisconsin high school enrolls in the UW System after graduation. According to the report, this rate is one of the highest in the nation.
Before diving into the report, Gov. Jim Doyle addressed the board. He stressed the importance of the UW System to Wisconsin, especially in light of the state’s recent budget problems.
“I see the University of Wisconsin System as one of the great promises of opportunity to every person in this state,” Doyle said.
“This state is in a very difficult situation. If we don’t handle it correctly, it imperils the University of Wisconsin, and ultimately, the people of this state. If we slash education, we undermine what makes our state so attractive.”
After Doyle’s budget emphasis, the board heard an update on the Higher Education Reauthorization Act.
“Congress needs to keep emphasis on low-income students and their access to higher education as it begins work on the Higher Education Reauthorization Act,” said American Council of Education president David Ward.
Congress is currently reviewing the bill, which awards low-income students with federal funding for postsecondary education.
Ward strongly believes financial aid is one of the most important issues Congress will face while reauthorizing the act.
The second half of the meeting will take place today in 1820 Van Hise Hall.
