Amidst the discussions regarding the University's contributions to Providence, we have been pleased that University officials and the general student body still consider financial aid a top priority. In fact, The Herald poll conducted in March shows that nearly 40 percent of students believe that President-elect Christina Paxson should make financial aid a top priority. Recently, the student advocacy group Brown for Financial Aid came into the foreground, lobbying for a greater commitment to this cause. We believe that addressing this issue is of paramount importance for anyone who takes pride in being a Brown student, and we fully support Brown for Financial Aid.
As highlighted by a column written by members of BFA last week, the group's goals are to achieve completely need-blind admission, lower the average debt burden by more than $5,000, as well as "increasing student voices in financial aid and policy decisions" and "mak(ing) financial aid more responsive to student needs." These goals, which reflect a strong dose of necessary idealism with a touch of pragmatism, are fully compatible with the University's mission to be one of the top competitive institutions in the world. In realizing these goals, especially achieving entirely need-blind admission, the University would put itself in a position to help "dissolve socioeconomic barriers instead of reinforcing them."
Brown's reputation as an institution of diversity is well-justified - not only does the undergraduate body represent all 50 states and a large sampling of countries, but it also houses students of all races, beliefs, political values and most importantly, socio-economic standing. Despite our differences, we are united by one characteristic - we possess a special merit that is worthy of studying at a school that many only dream about attending. This diverse undergraduate body would not be the same without the existence of generous financial aid. In order for Brown to be the standard for academic excellence, the University must admit its students based not on their capacity to make a financial contribution, but on their potential to enhance the quality of the academic environment for the sake of the University's reputation and its fellow peers. As one BFA member simply yet poignantly announced, "My family's socioeconomic status has zero to do with how much I deserve to be here as a student and how much I add to the Brown community."
We appeal personally to Paxson, the Corporation and the rest of the administration concerned with such matters to seriously consider BFA's goals and reaffirm the importance of providing financial aid. We came to Brown because we were enchanted by its promises, opportunities and values, which reflect the University's commitment to serve the best interests of its students. Whether we are standard undergraduates, resumed undergraduates or transfer students, we have appreciated Brown and President Ruth Simmons' efforts to further financial aid, and we are highly optimistic that Brown can continue to be an institution that is willing to invest in our futures. After all, attending university is not the pinnacle of success, but a stepping-stone to it. The investment toward our future must be made, and trust us, Christina Paxson: We Brunonians are more than worth it.
Editorials are written by The Herald's editorial page board. Send comments to editorials@browndailyherald.com.
