PORTLAND — Portland State University trustees have voted to increase tuition and fees for resident undergraduates to more than $8,000 a year.
University President Wim Wiewel (VEE-vell) told trustees that the 4.2 percent increase was needed to balance the budget, unless the Legislature boosts funding for higher education.
The Oregonian reports (http://is.gd/kzQf7z) that two dozen protesters shut down the trustees’ meeting for more than 20 minutes.
The protesters marched around the trustees in a circle, chanting and clapping. Board Chairman Pete Nickerson called a recess until the protest was finished.
Meanwhile, about 200 Portland State University students and supporters rallied outside the building where the meeting was held. Freshman Robyn Belmont held a sign saying, “I am not an ATM.”
