First posting: Introduction

This blog provides analysis of theories, themes, and trends within the realm of higher education finance.  I intend to share and discuss information that will help students, parents, scholars, and administrators to make sense of college costs and college finance.

I am a graduate admission professional at a highly selective, private, research intensive university located in Southern California.  As an admission professional I am tasked with facilitating the enrollment goals of my institution.  I read applications, provide guidance, and facilitate the transition from applicant to graduate student.

The topic of college costs is important during our troubled economic times.  Public appropriations for higher education are shrinking as tuitions are rising and students are left without answers as to why this is happening to them.  Taxpayers deserve to understand how and where their tax dollars are spent to fund higher education; more so when those public funds act to undermine broad access to a quality education.

I will frequently resort to theory as I frame a topic.  But, I will do my best to make the theory accessible through explanations.  If my interpretation or use of a theory is incorrect with your own, please contribute to my learning and share with the rest of the audience.  Also, I come from the perspective that our institutions exist to educate students in preparation for contributing to welfare of their communities and our nation.  While this is hardly a revolutionary perspective, it is one that, I feel, has been whittled away at as educational values confront commercial values.

Finally, blogs are intended to be topical.  The first few installments will have an arc to them as I discuss theories germane to higher education finance and cost containment.  Afterwards, I will continue to post thoughts and insights as they pertain to the costs of higher education.

Thank you for your interest!  I invite you to sign on and follow me as I explore the intersections of higher education finance and student learning.

Learners first, students always!