Salmon Creek — Yes, Washington state leaders talk up higher education and its critical role.
But state funding has been slashed three straight years, tuition rates have soared and seats for deserving resident students are growing ever more scarce.
The system is at a “tipping point,” with the future of students, families and the state’s economy on the line.
That’s the take of a group called the College Promise Coalition, staging public forums at Washington universities this week. The events are intended to spark public interest and raise political pressure to avoid even more damaging funding cuts.
Washington State University Vancouver hosts one event, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday.
John White, vice president of BergerABAM and former Clark College trustee, will moderate a panel discussion, with participants Bart Phillips, President of the Columbia River Economic Development Council; Monica Santos-Pinacho, a current WSUV student; and Lynn Valenter, WSUV vice chancellor for finance and operations.
