Likins requests $3M for underprivileged student aid program

The purpose of the $3 million program is to increase the number of students from underrepresented minority groups before they enter the university, and guide them through their college careers.

Likins is championing the program as way to reach out to minority students.

"It concerns minority students identify with people who have might not found their place at the UA," he said.

If approved by Gov. Jane Hull and the state Legislature, the program will garner $2.4 million for the 2000-01 fiscal year, and an additional $1.6 million for the next year. The program is part of a decision package for special projects proposed by the university that was recently approved by the Arizona Board of Regents.

The university's statement to the board outlined the program as a push to reach underrepresented groups before college. The proposal touted the program as a chance to attract and better ensure minority enrollment at the UA.

According to the report, the money would also improve minority services for academic help and advising.

"We need to finance activities that are meagerly financed," Likins said. "Every year we struggle to keep them alive."

The program would also promote career and personal development programs through community service, co-op and internship experiences, according to the proposal.

Likins said the program is "an affirmative action initiative" as the UA does not take students based on race.

"We will admit the little white boy," Likins said.

He said additional financial aid is necessary because there has never been a steady assurance of university money. Because there is no continuous flow of money, Likins said the regents have allowed the UA to ask for funding from the Legislature.

Although 1.5 percent of this year's 5 percent tuition increase went to financial aid, the university still needs more funds for underprivileged students, Likins said.

"The goal is not to have those underfinanced students not pay," Likins said. "The real prize is zero (dollars) for the needy students."

Likins said he believes students who come from families that are financially well-off should pay for college, while students who can't afford to do so should not be forced to.

"This way all students get subsidies by tax payers, but needy students get more subsidies than wealthy students."

The university does not know if it will receive necessary funding until next year.

UA students pay their education in a variety of ways and had differing opinions on the state paying for minority students.

Dan Van Cuyk, a civil engineering junior, said his parents are paying for his education.

"I think if there is a financial need they (students) should get it, but not based on race," he said.

Irene Hsiao can be reached via e-mail at Irene.Hsiao@wildcat.arizona.edu.