Otterbein University Student Government President Jeremy Paul addressed student concerns about the increased fee for the Campus Center renovations.
At the town hall meeting Feb. 8, Paul said the Campus Center improvements would include easier navigation, accessibility for the handicapped and sustainability with a re-modernized dining experience.
This fee will be an additional $125-$150 on top of the current student life fee which is $200. It will begin fall 2019, meaning students who graduate in 2020 will pay the fee without the chance to utilize the facility.
"It was in our best interest to approve or give our support to implement a Campus Center facility fee," said Paul.
According to Paul, originally the fee was set to start in the fall of 2018, meaning students in the class of 2019 and 2020 would be paying for a fee that wouldn't directly benefit them. Student government voiced their concerns to the administration and the administration decided to hold off on the fee until fall 2019.
The class of 2019 will be recognized for their "selfless giving," according to Paul. There have been different ideas on how to recognize the class of 2019 such as plaques and having the class sign the building while it's still under construction. Paul said he is certain that there will be a discounted rate for alumni that will pay the fee to use the Campus Center if they wished.
"The building should be finished by homecoming 2020," said Paul.
Jeremy Paul also updated OUSG about the ongoing presidential search. Students said they want a president that is personable and active on campus.
"I couldn't put a face to Kathy Krendl," said Kyle Turner, junior zoo and conservation science major.
Students also mentioned wanting a president that appreciates different walks of life and a liberal arts education.
According to Rebekah Perry, junior trustee, most of the information is still confidential, but said the search is narrowed down to inviting back 10 people for interviews. It will be narrowed down to three choices by mid-March and the new president will be announced at the end of the month.
