College receives high marks across the board

Mat-Su College signed up for a full load of changes in 2002. The campus is under the leadership of a new director who seeks to expand the way the campus responds to education needs in the Valley. The rolls increased by impressive numbers on the campus, as well, perhaps as an affirmation that the campus is on the right track. The University of Alaska system saw a 10-percent tuition hike in 2002, and the Valley campus will pass that increase on to Valley students, although the increase will mean improved service to the community.

May 31

Mat-Su College director named

MAT-SU -- After five months of sifting through applicants, Mat-Su College's search committee has completed its task -- a new director has been chosen.

Paul R. Dauphinais, Ph. D., will take the helm as Mat-Su College's director in mid-July. Dauphinais has a broad background in college administration, and hails most recently from York County Technical College in Wells, part of the Maine Technical College System.

Dauphinais said he considers the move to Mat-Su a step up.

"I was looking to become part of a well-respected institution," Dauphinais said, "and the University of Alaska is certainly one. It also fits my skill set very well."

Sept. 17

College hits peak attendance

MAT-SU -- Nearly 100 more students have signed up for classes this year at Mat-Su College than last year, and the number of full-time equivalent students is up nearly 10 percent. That's nearly 150 more students than registered for the fall 2000 semester, and a full 100 more full-time students who registered at that time.

Those numbers are according to a report issued Tuesday to Mat-Su College's new director, Dr. Paul Dauphinais. Nearly 1,300 students registered for class this semester, and that number may continued to grow, as more students generally come on throughout the semester.

Nov. 29

Tuition increase supported

at Mat-Su College

MAT-SU -- Although the 10-percent tuition hike has raised the ire of students in various branches of the University of Alaska system, Mat-Su College students seem to be taking the raise in stride -- and some even seem pleased with the way the added funds will be spent.

"He definitely has an awesome approach to what he's going to do with the 10 percent," said Elaine Bialka, Mat-Su's student government president, of a proposal put forward by Mat-Su Director Dr. Paul Dauphinais. "It's a really positive thing for this particular campus."

The tuition hike of 10 percent would be effective next fall. It was approved earlier this month by the state's board of regents, the first increase above inflation adjustments since 1995. Each year, according to the Higher Education Price Index, tuition rates have risen by about 3.5 percent each year since 1995. Earlier this year, University President Mark Hamilton recommended an increase of about 6.4 percent in addition to the 3.6 inflation adjustment scheduled for next year.