Open officer positions are not the only propositions that Northwestern State University of Louisiana students will see on the Student Government Association Spring election ballot.
SGA president Terrell Woodard Jr. said, “SGA was approached by administration at the University to propose a change in student fees, because NSU has not changed student fees since 2015.”
The Student Fee Referendum proposes a fee increase from $61 to $94 based on the number of enrolled hours.
The fees will consist of a $4 increase for each credit hour, capped at 18 hours, aimed at supporting athletics. Additionally, there will be a $1 increase per credit hour, also limited to 18 hours, to support the Spirit of Northwestern Band. A $2 increase will be implemented starting at three credit hours to assist spirit groups, including Northwestern Cheerleading and the Purple Pizzazz Pom Line. Furthermore, a $1 increase will commence at three credit hours to enhance student engagement, which encompasses Recognized Student Organizations, Greek Life, First Year Experience and Demon Days.
Maggie Martinez, sophomore secondary education major and dancer for the Purple Pizzazz Pom Line, discussed that spirit groups such as the Pom Line currently receive little funding. This results in the members of these groups participating in numerous fundraising events throughout the year.
Mary-Katherine Horton Maggio, director of First-Year Experience and Student Engagement, said “It is time we follow the market increase.”
Maggio discussed a student fee increase that would benefit NSU to help provide an improved student experience. The funds would not only benefit athletics and spirit groups, but it would provide better funding for registered student organizations and events like Demon Days and
Homecoming Week.
The proposed student fee increase is raising concern in the student body. According to NSU Tuition, Fees, and Financial Aid, NSU is recognized as one of the most cost-efficient public universities in the south.
Caroline Spencer, sophomore nursing major, explained how this proposed increase in fees can worry students.
“NSU is known for being affordable. While I do see how putting more money into athletics and social clubs could be beneficial, the price increase could deter students from committing to NSU,” Spencer said.
This referendum will be on the Spring ballot on March 11 and 12. Voting will take place on the Student Government Election Portal.
