Gov. Corbett Cuts Millions In Funding To Public Universities
By Jericka Duncan
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- "We have less money than I would like, so we must adapt," said Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett, referring to education.
On Tuesday afternoon, he laid out his proposed budget. It holds the line on taxes but cuts millions in funding to public universities like Temple, which stands to lose $43 million more than last year.
"That's a very significant drop," said Temple's Chief Financial Officer Tony Wagner. "It's 30%. If you combine it with the cuts from last year, our appropriation would be cut 50% over a two year period."
Wagner says students suffered enough with a 10% increase in tuition costs in 2011. Seniors Colin Saltry and Elliot Griffin know the issues plaguing students all too well.
As student body representatives, they traveled to Harrisburg a week ago with other students from Penn State, Lincoln and Pittsburg universities. All of the schools are on the verge of losing state funding.
"Some students won't be back next semester," said Elliot Griffin, VP of External Affairs for Temple Student Government. "It means students will be forgoing internships and working full time jobs and leaving Pennsylvania instead of staying here to get their education."
"We're going to continue to work very hard to make sure Temple stays affordable so those people can keep going to Temple, and the dream of higher education lives on," said Student Body President Colin Saltry.
The Governor's proposed budget also includes cuts of 20% to the 14 Pennsylvania State System Universities.
