FHSU student president advocates $8M funding increase for affordable education

The House Committee on Higher Education Budget convened on March 12, 2025, to discuss critical funding issues affecting regional universities in Kansas, with a particular focus on Fort Hays State University (FHSU). The meeting featured testimony from Ella, a fourth-generation FHSU student and current student body president, who highlighted the importance of affordable education and the financial challenges faced by students.

Ella shared her personal journey, emphasizing that her decision to attend FHSU was driven by affordability rather than family legacy. She noted that attending a larger university would have resulted in significant student loan debt, which she avoided by choosing FHSU. She expressed concern over the current funding disparities, revealing that research universities receive $14,636 per student, while regional institutions like FHSU receive only $6,339. This funding gap, exceeding $7,000, directly impacts tuition rates and accessibility for students.

During her testimony, Ella advocated for an $8 million increase to the state general fund for FHSU, which she argued would enhance classroom and laboratory facilities and support student recruitment and retention efforts. She underscored the university's ability to provide quality education despite financial constraints and stressed the need for equitable funding to maintain affordability for future students.

The committee members were invited to ask questions following Ella's testimony, indicating a willingness to engage further on the issues raised. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by regional universities in Kansas and the critical need for adequate funding to ensure accessible higher education for all students. The meeting concluded with a call for continued advocacy for increased support for institutions like FHSU, which play a vital role in the educational landscape of the state.