The increases have permitted the universities to attract and hire additional faculty and staff to teach our record numbers of students. The students learn in better facilities than those available just a few years ago, due to the revenue provided for capital improvements. There is no question that a difference is being made that has significant returns for our citizens. Despite this progress, there is much to be done in terms of improving facilities and programs to fully educate citizens for the century that is now upon us. Also included in this request is the third year of the installment for base budget adjustment for the three comprehensive universities, including Mississippi State.
Financial aid is another area in which demand has increased significantly in recent years.
This number is up from 300 just three years ago. We urge alumni and friends of Mississippi State to contact their legislators about maintaining the momentum for the universities by supporting the FY 2001 budget request that will be considered by the Legislature during the session beginning in January 2000.