New rule places students at risk
For nearly 100 years, the institution my grandfather founded has served students with an education that prepares them for applied arts careers. I am proud to serve as a third-generation president at The Illinois Institute of Art - Schaumburg.
Now, due to a rule proposed by the U.S. Department of Education, the students we serve are at risk of not achieving higher education or their professional goals.
The proposed rule, cleverly termed "Gainful Employment," will remove student choice and deny access to programs and degrees for many. The result is that entire programs now available under Title IV federal financial aid could be ineligible if they don't meet the Education Department's unrealistic "one-size-fits-all" debt-service-to-income ratio test. Career-focused education is at particular risk.
Our accredited college offers bachelor's and associate's degrees, flexible schedules, and faculty who are active professionals in their fields. We educate year-round and work with students to assist them in securing employment.
A majority of students we serve rely on Title IV financial aid. The Gainful Employment rule discriminates against many by gating access to postsecondary education for low-income individuals and minorities. As higher education gains importance, so does the reliance on Title IV financial aid. Yet this rule would deny many students access to aid and education.
I have served in both the creative and academic sectors and witnessed how an education in applied arts can enhance one's career. The Illinois Institute of Art - Schaumburg prepares students for high-demand professions. Graduates fill a niche role, supplying important skills and service to our country's work force.
If the Gainful Employment rule is enacted, the result will be a decline in opportunity, education, and economic success. I urge public officials to examine the proposal and the negative consequences it would bring. Please protect students seeking opportunity and choice in higher education.
David W. Ray
Campus President
Illinois Institute of Art
Schaumburg