Support faltering departments & programs

By J. Samuel Diaz

Core areas of education need to be supported. Television, broadcasting, news reporting and investigation are just some of the careers now closer to ceasing. Let's support programs that keep our society well-informed and vibrant as we challenge a new generation of media stars to shine.

Horticulture classes got end-of-lifed in 2011 and the Horticulture Department eliminated. By some odd stroke of luck, its CSM gardens and Building 20 managed to get saved, but only because of a lawsuit. Go figure.

Now, in 2013, it looks like the Journalism Department will be slated for elimination. One of its professors quit after 4 of his 5 Journalism classes were canceled. And today, the brand new building it stands in is pretty much empty.

As we see this trend develop over time, we can see that this policy of down-scoping the mission of our tax-funded colleges is already happening. Each time a department falls apart through neglect and then chopped, it is the county residents who lose out. I wonder aloud: Which departments and related programs will be eliminated in the next two years? As departments and programs get eliminated, it's no wonder our colleges become emptier.

Do you want to hear another "It's a tough decision and we understand everyone's concerns, but ..." ??? Is this the speech you are waiting for? I hope not. If you feel the same way I do about this, then go out and vote on election day. Your vote can make the difference.