University priorities askew

With $683 million in budget cuts on the horizon for Washington public colleges and universities, I was disappointed to find out how former WSU head basketball coach Tony Bennett earned a yearly salary of $1 million. With Bennett’s departure I hope that WSU will make a responsible decision regarding the salary of his successor. It is time for universities to get their priorities straight.

College is ultimately about learning. The school sporting events should be secondary to that. However, more and more universities are showing that the performance of their sports team is more important than providing a quality education to the majority of the student body. While Bennett was making $1 million, the actual professors at WSU were making about $73,000. I guess a jump shot is worth more than a doctoral degree.

The Washington state Legislature is considering allowing universities to raise tuition more than the 7 percent cap, but don’t worry, the Cougs made it to two NCAA tournaments. Professors could be facing layoffs, and admission to college will be harder to come by, but at least the game will be good.

Camille Troxel

Spokane