Dear ASCE – New Orleans Branch Member,

In my last communication regarding the CEE program at the University of New Orleans, I tried to layout the potential risks to the program brought on by state wide budget cuts to higher education.  I encouraged everyone that is concerned for the program to contact the university Chancellor, Dr. Timothy P. Ryan, and the Dean of the College of Engineering, Dr. Russell E. Trahan to provide proof to the University officials that the civil engineering community needs and supports the College and the CEE Department.  I believe this task has been at least partially achieved…  In responses to my own letter to the University from Dr. Ryan and Dr. Trahan, I believe the message is being received loud and clear, although I would encourage anyone that has not communicated their concerns and support to still do so.

Unfortunately, the future of the College and the CEE Department will require more than support just from the University leadership to ensure a sustainable future.  Dr. Ryan and Dr. Trahan have asked that we help the University by communicating with our legislative representatives on two issues.  First, they would like for us to express how the past, present, and potential future budget cuts to higher education are threatening the future of the College of Engineering and the ABET accreditation of the Civil and Environmental Department, and how this can affect our profession, our businesses, and the entire community.  Also, we are being asked to communicate our support for the LA GRAD act, which would allow the University to increase tuition to make up for the loss of state funds.  I have appended a copy of this bill for review.  Specifically, this bill is asking for the ability to incrementally increase tuition to levels consistent with equivalent institutions of higher learning.  These tuition increases are contingent upon certain performance bench marks, creating a win-win scenario for the university.

Unfortunately, it appears that our work to help the CEE Department at UNO is not done.  The following link can be used to locate the home pages and contact information for legislatures and representatives based on a voter’s home address:

http://www.legis.state.la.us/district/zipcode.asp

Time is not on our side.  The LA GRAD act is being considered in the current legislative session that will only last for a few more weeks.  I ask that everyone that feels strongly that our profession and community needs a viable, sustainable, accredited Civil and Environmental Engineering Department take the time to communicate this need to your elected representatives.  Thank you for your time.  Hopefully, my next announcement about the program will be positive news.

Sincerely,

Benjamin M. Cody, P.E.
ASCE – New Orleans Branch President 2009/2010

Attachments:

HB1171.pdf

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