Programs currently funded by students’ fees such as Health Services, educational and recreational programs and Cultural Affairs are being asked by the administration to forego a 5 percent annual increase their budget generally receives each year to make way for varsity athletic facility enhancements.
    Students usually pay this increase each year to fund better services, equipment and facilities in areas that directly affect them on a daily basis.
    The athletics proposal will have students pay for $13 million of the planned $32 million needed for renovations and additions to athletic facilities most students will never see, much less use.
    There are roughly 550 varsity athletes on campus—only a small percentage of the entire student body.
    Chancellor Francis T. Borkowski said Tuesday the proposed budget for next year was designed to minimize the net impact on students. He said the plan is a creative approach to go forward with the recommendation in the midst of the state’s current fiscal problems.
    Why, in this time of “tightening up the belts” is the university asking students and university programs to squeeze out just a little more?
    Borkowski also said Appalachian is currently in between fundraising campaigns. The recently completed Campaign for the Second Century brought in $83.2 million for different areas of the university.
    Administrators must view students as an in-between-fundraisers money source.
    No student fees should pay for this recommendation.
    Borkowski said Appalachian has many loyal supporters of athletics.
    These supporters include members of the Yosef Club, an organization designed to bring in additional money for the athletics program. The members are also currently the only people who can drink alcohol in Stadium Parking Lot without being arrested. How interesting.
    SGA senators spoke against the proposal Tuesday after speaking to their constituents. Most comments brought forth at the meeting were against the recommendation. Short of writing legislation denouncing the athletics proposal, the senate body adamantly showed their distrust in the administration and Board of Governors.
    Director of Athletics Roachel J. Laney said Tuesday he respects their opinions. He also said “[the proposal] doesn’t benefit every student.” Finally the truth comes out.
    Why does it seem as if the administration does not want to listen to students, especially on issues that affect students most, especially student fees? Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Gregory S. Blimling said Tuesday no attempt to seek student approval or input is in the works.
    Student voice should be sought before supporters of athletics follow their own desires. Members of the Yosef Club and other friends of university athletics should be responsible for funding these enhancements. If funds are not to be found during this fiscal crisis, the plan should be postponed until more private funding is available.