Campus Quality Fee Update
More than a year ago, in spring 2008, following campus consultation and the recommendation of the Student Fee Advisory Committee, I approved the implementation of the Campus Quality Fee for California State University, Northridge. The purpose of the fee and the means by which the funds would be managed are fully described at the Campus Quality Fee website, but the main focus of the fee has been to benefit and enhance the learning experience of our students.
A year later, I am pleased to report that the fee has given the University an opportunity to provide programs and services for students that would not have been otherwise possible. The current budget environment has made the availability of these funds especially crucial and timely. Students have expressed appreciation for the enhanced services and opportunities that the Campus Quality Fee has made possible.
A complete list of the Campus Quality Fee allocations for 2008-09 and the current academic year, 2009-10, can be found at the program’s website, but below are a few that particularly have made a difference in the lives of students:
24/7 Library access: This allocation allowed the Oviatt Library to remain open 24 hours during finals week to give students an opportunity to focus on their exams and final projects.
Computer access: Fee money has been made available to upgrade computers in places like the Library and Music Technology Lab.
Wi-Fi access: Last year, funding was provided to enhance wi-fi access in outdoor areas and campus facilities not covered by state funding; this year, funding was allocated to upgrade wireless support in housing.
Academic support services: Allocations have been provided to support peer learning assistants, professional writing support and tutoring services, and a graduate assistant for a technology lab.
Spirit and environment: Funding has been made available for the Matador Spirit Plaza, the USU North Quad Student Gathering Space, and the College Student Facilities Enhancement Project.
The University is committed to offering a high quality of support for students as they progress toward graduation. However, especially in a constrained budget environment like the one we are currently experiencing, it’s difficult to fund every worthwhile project and initiative that would serve to advance this goal. The Campus Quality Fee provides a much needed and flexible supplement for the University’s efforts that directly benefit students.