In a significant move aimed at enhancing affordability for students, the East Tennessee State University (ETSU) Board of Trustees approved a substantial reduction in tuition rates for the Gatton College of Pharmacy during a special meeting on May 19, 2023. This decision comes in light of a historic $2.5 million recurring state funding allocation from the recent legislative session, which will directly benefit students by lowering their educational costs.

The approved changes will see in-state tuition drop by over 30%, bringing it down to $27,000 for the 2023-2024 academic year. This reduction translates to a total savings of approximately $46,696 for in-state students over the duration of their program. Out-of-state tuition will also see a decrease of about 15%, now set at $33,000, saving those students around $22,696. Additionally, the college plans to establish a scholarship pool of $720,000 to further alleviate out-of-pocket expenses for students, ensuring that every incoming Tennessee student receives a $5,000 scholarship throughout their four-year program.

This initiative not only positions the Gatton College of Pharmacy competitively among its peers but also reflects a commitment to supporting a largely underserved student body. The board expressed gratitude to state representatives and advocates who played a crucial role in securing the funding, highlighting the collaborative effort that made this achievement possible.

In another agenda item, the board also approved a revised immunization rule following a public hearing that gathered community feedback. This rule will be implemented to ensure the health and safety of students on campus.

The meeting concluded with a brief discussion on upcoming contracts, indicating that the board is actively engaged in overseeing institutional governance and planning for the future. The swift nature of the meeting, lasting only seven minutes, was noted as a record for the board, showcasing an efficient approach to addressing key issues impacting the university community.

Overall, these decisions reflect ETSU's ongoing commitment to making higher education more accessible and affordable for its students, ultimately benefiting the broader community by fostering a well-educated workforce.