Today, U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville engaged in discussions with various educational leaders during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing on higher education costs. The session included conversations with Dr. Andrew Gillen, Dr. Michael Lindsay, Dr. Mark Brown, Mr. Mike Pierce, and Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart.
Senator Tuberville introduced Dr. Mark Brown, President of Tuskegee University in Alabama, to the committee members. He highlighted Dr. Brown’s background as a retired Air Force Major General and the first alumnus to lead Tuskegee University.
In his remarks on the cost of higher education, Tuberville stated: “Gentlemen, thanks for being here. I’m passionate about this… We’ve gone backwards… It’s got to be merit-based… I’m for paying everybody’s way through college but not for a degree where when they get out, they can’t get a job at Walmart.”
Dr. Andrew Gillen discussed factors leading to rising costs at universities: “I would argue that the main driver of higher college cost is what’s called the Bowen Revenue Theory of Cost.” He noted that institutions tend to spend more when more revenue becomes available.
Dr. Michael Lindsay emphasized accountability and outcomes in higher education: “I think we have to be very intentional about the kind of formation that’s occurring on our campuses.” He spoke about initiatives aimed at enhancing student employment opportunities alongside professional development.
Dr. Mark Brown shared his experience with tuition freezes at Tuskegee University: “The real cost to the customer—the family—was more… Those costs were real, and we had to realize those as a school [that] operates just like a business.”
Dr. Russell Lowery-Hart highlighted differences in community colleges: “In the community college sector, there hasn’t been a massive skyrocket rising in prices.” He mentioned Austin Community College’s success in maintaining stable tuition rates over many years.
Mr. Mike Pierce addressed concerns regarding for-profit colleges: “We have watched the proprietary sector raise costs far in excess of other sectors…” He pointed out how some large colleges are forming deals with private companies impacting tuition costs.
Senator Tuberville concluded by acknowledging each speaker’s contributions and thanking them for their insights.
Senator Tommy Tuberville serves Alabama and is involved in several Senate committees including Armed Services and HELP.
