Morning sunlight streamed through the eastern windows of the Jeffrey R. Holland Centennial Commons Zion Room as the board of trustees prepared to vote on several new degree programs and a student fee increase.
Student body president Matt Devore, a senior integrated studies major from Mesquite, Nevada, and Dean of Students Del Beatty presented the student fees proposal for the 2016-17 school year to the trustees. The proposal included a reallocation of student fees to the Human Performance Center fund and a $12 increase beginning next semester. The proposal was approved unanimously by the board.
Several new degree programs were approved, including digital film, an American Sign Language minor, and an Institute of Politics and Public Affairs. The institute will provide hands-on internship opportunities for students to gain experience with the legislative system.
The school of business and communication received approval to begin work on marketing, economics and management minors.
Michael Lacourse, provost and vice president of academic affairs, said he fully expects that as more programs are approved, more students will want to attend DSU.
Devore said D-Week will be held April 11-16, and the theme of the week-long celebration is “the reveal,” which brought smiles to many faces in the room. Jyl Hall, director of public relations, confirmed the new mascot and identity will be announced at that time.
President Biff Williams said it is exciting to see the progress the university is making.
“You can see it, but you can also feel it as you walk across campus,” Williams said.
