Financial Policy Representative, Jesse Hoff ’11

September 10, 2009

Editor’s note: This article was initially published in The Daily Gazette, Swarthmore’s online, daily newspaper founded in Fall 1996. As of Fall 2018, the DG has merged with The Phoenix. See the about page to read more about the DG.

I am running for Financial Policy representative to be a strong voice for students as Swarthmore moves into more difficult times. We have all seen students contribute both personally and financially to Swarthmore in astonishing ways. Swarthmore in return has given us an unparalleled education. However, as coming to, paying for and succeeding after Swarthmore becomes more difficult than ever, it is essential that we focus on getting the most out of our school. I will make sure that students are heard clearly and that our needs are met.

I also want to encourage and be a part of greater dialogue about the economic role of higher education in America. It is clear that students feel strongly that change is needed. The recession has only increased the heavy financial burden on students. Even amidst the worst economic year in decades, tuition has outpaced inflation once again the administration taunts us with cuts in financial aid. It is true that our shrinking endowment dramatically impacts the budget. Yet I believe Swarthmore can do better. The primary goal of our endowment policy should not be to protect the endowment, but rather to protect students. As of this June, our endowment was reportedly worth around 1.15 billion dollars, yet our budgeted 47 million 09-10 spending is just a four percent rate. This is below our historical target of 4.25%. It was still a cut from last year’s contribution by ten million dollars. Imagine if President Obama decided to raise taxes and cut spending this year.

Sample advertisement

I believe that this is the time that Swarthmore can set itself apart in financial justice. It will take hard work and new ideas. It will also take prudent decisions and belt-tightening. As Financial Policy Representative I will witness the start of discussions that head us down that road. I look forward to helping to turn student frustration into action and ideas. I will always work to listen and I will always strive to protect and project student interest. Swarthmore can be of value to you; I hope you’ll let me help.

Email me at jhoff1@swarthmore.edu if you have any questions.

Previous Story

Letter – Coke’s Return

Next Story

Campus Life Representative, Matt Lamb ’12

Latest from News

Swarthmore Leaders React as SEPTA Announces Severe Cuts

On April 10, the South-Eastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) announced widespread service cuts and fare increases for the 2026 fiscal year. The cuts, which total a 45% reduction of service, are the culmination of several years of long-term deficits that have only

New NCAA Policy Implications for Transgender Student-Athletes

Under a new NCAA policy banning transgender and gender non-conforming athletes from participating in women’s sports, the status of potential Swarthmore student-athletes is in question. The policy, enacted Feb. 6, places no restrictions on who can participate in men’s teams, but bans

Resident Peer Leader Hiring Cycle Sees Surge in Applications

As the spring semester comes to a close, many students and administrators are well into preparations for the 2025-2026 school year. The housing lottery has finished, students have completed pre-registration for classes, and many open campus jobs, including Resident Peer Leaders (RPLs),

Dr. Wade Manora Jr. Takes on IC Role

In January 2024, the Intercultural Center (IC) announced a change in leadership for the first time since 2019. Dr. Wade Manora Jr. is the new Assistant Dean and Director of the IC, succeeding Dr. Imaani El-Burki in the role. Manora was the
Previous Story

Letter – Coke’s Return

Next Story

Campus Life Representative, Matt Lamb ’12

The Phoenix

Don't Miss