Kopp mum about upcoming tuition increase

Here's something from the State Journal about the rising cost of tuition in West Virginia. Remember that there was a protest at Concord University a week or two ago, and the administration there cut the proposed increase from 6 percent to about 3.7 percent.

Marshall University President Stephen Kopp also will propose an increase in tuition at the upcoming Board of Governors meeting April 23, although a spokesperson said Kopp wasn't releasing information about the increase until the board meeting.

That's the way to play it. Keep the public in the dark, although people on the Board of Governors certainly will know what sort of increase Kopp will propose. No information, no opportunity for a protest like that at Concord or at the University of Louisville.

I have a call in to Marshall people to find out what Kopp will propose. If I get a call back, I'll update this.

UPDATE: I just talked with Marshall spokesman Bill Bissett, who said he just came out of yet another budget meeting where this was discussed. He didn't come out and say it -- we have to play the game -- but from all indications, Kopp and his people will be working on this up close to the time of the next Board of Governors meeting, which is 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. Don't look for anything being released in advance. But do look for an editorial before the meeting. Reporter Ben Fields is talking to Bissett as I write this as he tries to get the story for tomorrow's paper.

Marshall students should know what's being discussed. They should have the chance to offer their opinions before the Board of Governors votes.