U of M plans to approve 0% tuition increase
The University of Memphis intends to approve no tuition increases for the upcoming academic year.
An approval of the proposal would mark the fourth time in seven years that the college has had no increase to tuition, according to a media release. Over that time, the university said its average tuition increase has been 1.5%.
“Our commitment to lowering costs for our students has had significant impact, and that commitment has never been more important than now,” U of M President M. David Rudd said in a statement.
U of M's Board of Trustees will vote on the proposal in June, said Chuck Gallina, spokesperson for the university. The next quarterly board meeting is scheduled for June 3.
Rudd has often cited U of M's dedication to low student costs, noting in a recent presentation to the board that the university has had the lowest cost increases in the state of Tennessee. The university has prioritized simplified student fees in recent years.
Thursday, The University of Tennessee system also announced a proposal to not raise tuition due to financial hardships for students and their families caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
If approved, it would be the first time in the system's history that all four campuses — at Knoxville, Chattanooga,
Martin and the Health Science Center in Memphis — did not increase tuition.
“Our commitment to lowering costs for our students has had significant impact, and that commitment has never been more important than now.”
M. David Rudd U of M president
University of Memphis aiming to welcome students to campus this fall
Rudd has said plans are underway for a return to campus in the fall.
“We will be ready for the full range of possible scenarios based upon the best and most up-to-date scientific advice and health guidance that puts the safety of our community members at the forefront,” Rudd said in a statement.
“We look forward to welcoming our students, faculty and staff back to campus in the fall and will do so in a safe, responsible and thoughtful manner.”
In an email sent earlier in the week to students, faculty and campus staff, Rudd said the university was planing for “the full range of scenarios” based on scientific advice and health guidance.
A steering committee will drive the re-opening process, Rudd said in that email, and will coordinate with a number of groups at U of M focused on curriculum, student life on campus, health and safety, athletics, facilities and technology infrastructure.
The committee focused on the campus' reopening will be lead by Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Dr. Tom Nenon.
Nenon will be joined on the steering committee by Dr. Jasbir Dhaliwal, the executive vice president of research and innovation, Dr. James Gurney, the dean of the university's public health school, and Karen Weddle-west, the university's vice president of student academic successes.
Most universities in Tennessee have taken a similar approach of forming a task force or committee to consider options for the fall semester. Several administrators have said they are creating plans for one of three scenarios: if COVID-19 worsens, improves or stays the same. If things worsen, classes could remain online only. Some universities said they are considering a hybrid option, with classes offered partially online and partially in person.
Commercial Appeal reporter Micaela Watts and The Knoxville News Sentinel contributed.
Laura Testino covers education and children’s issues for the Commercial Appeal. Reach her at laura.testino@commercialappeal.com or 901-512-3763. Find her on Twitter: @Ldtestino