EWU staff hit hard

The budgetary crisis facing Washington’s institutes of higher education is no secret. Case in point: Eastern Washington University experienced a $24.9 million cut, a whopping 26 percent of its funding base.

These cuts manifested in a shortage of graduate course work offered during the summer session. Many departments, including the English Department, have been prohibited from offering classes, internships or even thesis credits over the summer due to budget deficiencies.

I acknowledge that President Rodolfo Arevalo has made a herculean effort to insulate students from the hammer blow of grievous financial strain in response to the budget. How else would EWU students enjoy a measly 11 percent raise in tuition next year, the lowest raise in the state?

The impact has been diverted to the staff whose positions are being culled and the seven to 10 degree programs that are being eliminated. Somehow, rejoicing that the misfortune of financial burden has been placed on households other than mine seems to exhibit a vicious degree of selfishness.

To my fellow students, I offer this caution: Think of those that surround you. The severe lack of funds has not been manufactured by the university president or even the state to annoy you. While the rising cost of education is concerning, remember that you are making the choice to spend those dollars.

The faculty and staff who suffer our moans of disgust and disbelief do not have the same control over whether they keep their jobs, salaries or benefits. Show some respect: Count yourself lucky and shut up.

April Ridgeway

Cheney