WSU undergrads get break from tuition increase

Tuition will not go up next year for Wright State undergrads. That’s the word from the University, which released its proposed fiscal 2016 budget to the Board of Trustees Thursday.

WSU did ask for what they call a “modest, annual tuition increase” this fall for graduate, professional and non-resident students. That increase will equal no more than 2.3 percent, according to the university in a release.

The trustees voted to approve the fiscal year 2016 budget at the conclusion of the June 4 meeting. The budget is based in part on expected state funding that has not yet been allocated.

In outlining the university’s plans, Mark M. Polatajko, vice president for business and finance and chief financial officer, detailed the financial condition of the university during the proposed budget meeting of trustees and the campus audience.

In 2015, Wright State increased its number of scholarships awarded by 13.5 percent with over $3.9 million in new awards given to more than 1,200 Wright State students.

Polatajko highlighted how Wright State saved money and created efficiencies by developing shared service models with other higher education and public institutions and through implementation of energy conservation measures across campus.

“We are creating the highest value for every dollar we spend,” Polatajko said.

More than $5.3 million in capital funding from the state will be used to modernize campus buildings for improved classroom experiences and revitalize space to improve student service.

“The financial condition of the university is strong,” said Polatajko. “The fiscal 2016 budget continues on the path of sound fiscal stewardship and aligns our resources to the relentless execution of our 2013-18 Strategic Plan.”