One of the myths in Hamilton is that the cost of living is significantly lower than in other areas of the country. I believe in light of rising utility rates, sales tax rates and cost of housing that this is no longer true. According to Bureau of Census information for 2000, the nationwide average earnings for persons with master's degrees is $77,935., and for those with doctoral degrees is $93,361.

It is time to stop ignoring such reality. It should be clear by now that our administration is not looking out for those of us who teach at UTC. Unless we unite and become resolute about changing priorities here, the university will continue its downward spiral. Our working conditions portend a terrible future for this institution. Quality in the classroom is definately impacted by the poor physical condition of many of our buildings, the low pay, the heavy reliance on underpaid adjunct faculty, and the low morale. Let's get our act together by uniting to save what is left of UTC's educational credibility!
Shela Van Ness
Sociology