With better facilities comes an improved learning experience, according to Missouri State University President Clif Smart.
Smart, along with Gov. Jay Nixon and State Sen. Mike Parson of Bolivar, took time Monday to address the importance of the Building Affordability. The initiative was passed earlier this year by the Missouri Legislature, creating a bonding package that will fund nearly 500 projects, including several at college and university campuses.
“Building Affordability will strengthen Missouri’s position as a leader in college affordability and ensure our students graduate with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed, not just mountains of unsustainable debt.”
The Building Affordability program invests $200 million in higher education, and according to Nixon helps schools make needed renovations without raising tuition to cover the costs. At Missouri State, nearly $19 million will go toward improvements to Ellis and Hill Halls, as well as work at the West Plains campus and various small projects.
President Smart explains that this type of funding helps MSU retain one of the lowest tuition rates when compared to all other publicly funded universities in Missouri.
“The state is going to have to fund higher education if we want to remain the leader in affordability.” Smart said.
According to President Smart, inflation has jumped about twelve percent over the past six years. During that same span tuition at Missouri State has increased just under ten percent.
Smart expects to begin the renovations of the facilities starting this fall with renovations to Ellis Hall then Hill Hall starting next school year. It is anticipated that the projects will be completed within two years.
