For example, Iowa offers over 30 times more than we do in Nebraska on tuition assistance for its independent college students. Support from the church has been reduced as many other worthy missions compete for support. The challenge to come up with funds to assist deserving, needy, and talented students is considerable. Hence, we must depend annually on the generosity of individuals and corporate bodies who believe in our mission. In theory that is a good solution, but anyone who knows the market knows that the competition for talented, able, and needy students is severe.
Financial aid is an investment in our future.
When I came here almost ten years ago, student enrollment was down to 414. This fall it was 661. Growth has been modest, steady, and difficult to achieve, but we have worked hard to shape a solid student body. College aid helps attract the kind of student who can be most successful at Dana and who can provide needed leadership for tomorrow. Because of our efforts, we are attracting better-prepared students, as evidenced by our ACT scores.