University increases graduation fee
Campus Times
April 16, 1999
A graduation fee increase of $20 has been implemented by the Department
of Administration and Finance after consultation with University deans.
Approval for the added expense was given by University Council. The new
fee will cost those students applying for graduation after July 1 $110,
all of which will be contributed for new equipment for Commencement.
After remaining at $90 for approximately 10 years, the fee for all students
applying for graduation after July 1, 1999, will be increased to $110.
The main reason for the $20 increase has to do with the constant inflation
of prices for the graduation ceremony.
Prices are going up around the world, and the University of La Verne
wants to continue to make the graduation ceremony a memorable event for
all graduates. The total price for a cap and gown, music, flowers and chairs
for Commencement ceremonies is just a minute example of the various types
of equipment and other materials for which the graduation fee pays.
"Things just don't stay at the same price anymore," said Ruby
Montaño-Cordova, associate dean of student affairs.
This increased fee will also go toward additional administrative operational
costs for the ceremony. Some of these challenges include adding more shade
to the stage area. In addition, the University is attempting to improve
wheelchair access to the stage.
Currently, the stage has a wheelchair lift that allows disabled students
to go on stage in order to receive their diplomas. This system, however,
only allows for access through either side of the stage. Therefore, disabled
graduates who need to use the lift must return to their seats from the same
lift that lifted them onto the stage.
The recent increase in the graduation fee will be help to fund the purchase
of a ramp for the center of the stage. This will allow disabled students
the opportunity to leave the stage down the center aisle, as do all other
graduates.
"When you look at future costs, these are the kinds of things you
look at," said Montaño-Cordova.
The number of graduates from the University of La Verne has gone up
over the past few years and it costs more money to accommodate so many more
students. The administration is also expecting an increase in the number
of students graduating in the future.
The graduation fee does not apply to traditional undergraduate students
applying for graduation after July 1. The price increase will be required
of CAPA (Campus Accelerated Program for Adults) and graduate students alike.
This flat price for graduation creates a balance for all students. It
ensures that all students pay the same amount, regardless of their status
at graduation.
"As opposed to making it a $5 or $10-dollar increase, we're giving
ourselves a cushion. With this $20 increase, we hopefully will be able to
cover the next 10 years,"said Montaño-Cordova.
Allison Moore, a junior public relations major, is not terribly concerned
about the $20 increase in the graduation fee.
"I feel that we pay enough tuition that should cover extra funds
for graduation. However, $20 isn't so much money that I'm going to dwell
on it and let it upset me," said Moore.
Other students around campus are disturbed that the price for graduation
has gone up. Many students feel that the graduation fee should be included
as part of their annual tuition. They feel that the additional fee is too
much.
"If you go to a private school, that should already be an accommodation.
The students should not have to pay for graduation," said Shyla White,
a junior diversified major.
Other students feel the same way. Matt Durant, a senior communications
student, feels very strongly that this increased fee is just an attempt
to get more money out of students before they graduate.
"When did this happen? What else are they going to charge us for?
What do they need another $110 for?" said Durant. "We pay this
school enough money in tuition to cover graduation day."
Students have paid for graduation in the past, and according to Cordova,
this increased fee is simply a response to the inflation of prices for items
that make graduation day a success and a memorable event for every student.
