Hello, Eagles!
We are halfway through the semester, and there is often more happening behind the scenes than students may realize. At the Board of Trustees meeting on Feb. 17, the board approved a tuition increase beginning in Summer 2026.
A tuition increase may not be the most uplifting news, but I want to explain why I believe this was a thoughtful and responsible decision.
Rising costs and inflation are inevitable and affect every institution. Rather than waiting and implementing a large increase all at once, Dr. Tracy Morris and her team chose to make a modest adjustment. Beginning this summer, tuition will increase by $8 per credit hour, bringing the total to $154 per credit.
This proposal was presented to the Student Government two weeks before the board’s final vote. My fellow members and I felt comfortable supporting it after hearing the full explanation. IVCC has one of the lowest tuition and fees of surrounding community colleges. Even with this adjustment, the goal is to keep IVCC equitable and attainable for all students.
Serving on the board has been an incredibly positive experience. With only a few months left in my term, my biggest takeaway is how open and forum-driven our college truly is. When it comes to student concerns, IVCC prioritizes transparency. Working closely with Dr. Morris, I have seen firsthand that she welcomes both positive feedback and constructive criticism—along with selfies.
I often encourage students in my monthly columns to contact me or stop me in the hallways with any concerns. I want to emphasize just how important your voice is. Your ideas, critiques, and questions are what keep this college environment progressive and accountable. I believe this administration is willing to listen, but that only works if students are willing to speak.
I hope everyone has a calm and successful rest of the semester. Don’t forget to look into scholarships; there are options for everyone, and remember that Summer and Fall registration is approaching quickly, beginning April 1.
Contact me at [email protected] for administration-related topics, or [email protected] for mental health-related guidance. Don’t be shy!
Your Student Trustee,
Danica Scoma