SNL: Shalala Night Live

Despite the fact that the only thing on the news these days seems to be concerning stimulus packages, our financial problems are here to stay for a bit longer. No matter what, any plan put into action will take time to resonate throughout the market, and in order to thrive (or just survive) until then, finances need to be reconstructed.

It goes without saying that students here were especially worried- would they lose their scholarships to budget cuts? What would this years annual increase of tuition be? Would they have to worry about losing their jobs on campus?

To answer these (and many other questions), President Donna Shalala visited Vince Cardinal's apartment in Hecht this Monday. Aside from being absolutely stoked that I was sitting less than five feet away from her, I felt reassured at the answers she was giving. She stated that things were difficult- people were donating less, and some budgets would be affected. She made sure to tell us that our scholarships would be honored, and need-based aid would actually increase. Staff would be paid fairly and continue to receive health care benefits- she acknowledged that no matter what the situation, we need to take care of one another and honor what is right. There was also mention of the silver lining of these budget cuts- the GreenU initiative. Energy saving practices will not only save us money, but help the environment as well.

Once everyone's financial questions were answered, the floor opened up for any other things we were wondering about- from why freshmen couldn't have cars to whether or not she planned on leaving the school (rumors had spread that she might leave to take up her post in the cabinet again for the Obama administration, but she assured us that UM is "too fun to leave"). It was a great chance to discuss current events and challenges with one of the most influential and achieved people in our nation.

Oh, and she has great faith in our baseball team. Go 'Canes!