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Show I Page 3 ampus By Jennifer Peltz jpeltzinfowest.com The possibility of Dixie College becoming a four year college in the future is a hot topic, and has generated much discussion on and off campus. Presently, Dixie College has 5,114 registered students, over 170 more than last year, with a Full-tim- e Equivalency of 3,478 as of Aug. 31. With Dixie's increasing numbers, the question of becoming a four year college is as pressing as ever. The main obstacle in the path to Dixie College's expansion? "Politics," said Dean of Students Bill Fowler. "But the growth of Dixie September 23, 1998 will force the issue," he added. "The outcry of the citizens of Washington County will be a major factor." In order for Dixie to become a four year institution, must first be approval obtained from the Board of Trustees. The issue will then be presented to the Board of Regents, who govern higher education, and then taken to the legislature. President Huddleston is pushing for Dixie to become a four year college. This will mean competition for Southern Utah University in Cedar City. "The first year, we would probably only enroll 300 more students into the school, but after that, enrollment will most likely be raised by a large amount," said Huddleston. "There would be great advantages to the community by providing a number of courses for students and adults that want to finish their education," he added. "It would be much more convenient for students to obtain their bachelor's degree here instead of having to compute out of town," said Fowler. "Our school can handle the expansion. We will not need to build on; we can accommodate the said students," Huddleston. Students have expressed concern about the disadvantages that come with the transformation. These include increased tuition and class sizes, which is directly related to the intirelamate established, tionship currently and a heavier workload. "I have enough homework student-to-teach- er as it is!" exclaimed freshman Karen Sommers. "I love how the college has a really cozy feeling to it," said freshman Alicia Waterson. "That feeling would change if more students were to come here." A number of major busi- nesses, including Motorola, have refused to establish offices in St. George due to the fact that Dixie College is not a four year university. com"Generally, high-tec- h a for source look ready panies d of employees to well-traine- stimulate their growth," said Jill Elliss, Director of the Dixie Business Alliance. "They would most likely come from a four year university, where more classes are featured," she added. Advantages of a larger student body would also increase the socialization and participation in campus activities. "I think it'd be awesome if Dixie became a four year college," said sophomore representative Tawnya Sessions. "Growth is always good." "I'd like to meet more people from all over the country," said Robert sophomore Williams. "Dixie would get a larger variety of students if it expanded." Shayna Petersen contributed to this article. 7 life's better here |