Student Union

My name is Greg Schweizer, and I’m an ArtSci Senator from the class of 2011.  Last night, we heard from Assistant to the Chancellor, Rob Wild.  We were happy to hear that Wash U is faring comparatively well in the current economic recession.  However, we recognize that some students' families may be significantly affected by the aggressive economic downturn that has gripped the U.S. since last fall.  (READ MORE!!)

Mr. Wild assured us that the administration is concerned for the students and their families.  While he said that a tuition increase is unavoidable in order to keep our university stable and competitive, he related that the Chancellor's office has pledged that all currently enrolled students have nothing to fear if their family's income should suffer and make tuition payments impossible.  I’d like to pass along his invitation for ANY Wash U student concerned about their financial situation and ability to cover tuition for the coming years to visit the Financial Aid Services Office.  Chancellor Wrighton and the administration have promised that the University will ensure that all current students will be able to graduate.  The Chancellor also stands by his policy that no family with an annual income of $60,000 or less will have to leave Wash U with loans.

I encourage students to hold the administration responsible for this guarantee.  If you’re concerned that our plummeting economy may negatively impact your access to a Wash U education, please visit the Financial Aid Office.  As a fellow student, I don't want to see any of my peers be forced to withdraw from Wash U due to the unprecedented monetary constraints that are affecting families across the country.

I applaud the administration's commitment to protect their students during this trying time in our economic history, and I am grateful that they have taken steps to make sure that no one has to leave Wash U as a result.  Let's commend them for this, but also be sure to take them up on this pledge should the need arise.