Dear Parents,

On Saturday, the Colorado College Board of Trustees approved the college's budget for the 2016-17 academic year. Tuition and fees were set at $50,892. For those living on campus, the comprehensive fee will be $62,560, with a standard double room rate of $6,902 and the meal plan C rate of $4,766.

Underscoring Colorado College's commitment to access, we are significantly increasing the financial aid budget. Students who are currently receiving financial aid will be notified about next year's aid package by June 1.

Beyond increasing financial aid, the tuition increase will be used to fund higher utility costs, debt service payments for improvements to our campus facilities and infrastructure, and a three percent rise in faculty and staff compensation. In addition, we will continue to improve quality and advance our strategic plan by making investments in interdisciplinary academic programs, a reinvigorated Summer Session that includes student research opportunities, The Butler Center, Dynamic Half Block courses, the First Year Experience program, internships, athletics, and faculty development initiatives.

Every year, endowment earnings and annual fund giving provide approximately 25 percent of our operating budget, enabling Colorado College to offer an exceptional education at a comprehensive fee that is significantly below what we spend on each student. Outside of the operating budget, major gifts also fund campus renovation and construction projects.

As an economist specializing in higher education, I can assure you that a college education is among the best investments one can make. Our commitment at Colorado College is to offer the highest quality residential liberal arts education. With our strategic plan as our guide, we are continuing to create new programs and opportunities that will benefit our students throughout their lives.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at president@coloradocollege.edu.

Sincerely,

Jill Tiefenthaler