Information Technology Fee
The Information Technology Fee (IT Fee) funds a wide range of technology services for students, such as computer labs, technology classrooms, computer networks, the IT Help Desk and Media Commons. The IT Fee also pays for printing in computer labs, videoconferencing facilities, and the wireless network. Other University-wide services, like library services and web-based training modules, are also funded using this fee. For more information about how this fee is working to bring you outstanding technology services and resources, please see the latest IT Fee Report published by University Park I.T. department.
Student Activity Fee
There is a modest fee that the University assesses students each semester of enrollment (the amount differs by number of credits scheduled). These fees are directed towards a pool of funds referred to as “Student Activity Fees” (SAFee). Students, as part of an organized club or as individuals, are welcome to submit requests to underwrite expenses associated with a special project, a planned trip, etc. A committee comprised of students, as well as one faculty and one staff member, review all proposals and choose which will be of greatest benefit to the student body.
Projects Funded
The following are just a few of the many activities funded by SAFee:
- Students For Justice trip to Washington, D.C.
- Four Seasons Club Bonfire
- Mental Health Awareness Day
- Religious Diversity Lecture Series
- Music and Entertainment: Comedian Tom Cotter, Native American Drumming and Dance with Frank LittleBear, and more
These are just a few of the many activities sponsored by the SAF. For more information on the Student Activity Fee and how to apply for funds, contact either Wanda Ochei or Andrew Zimmerman.
Process
To apply for funds, download the SAF Proposal Form, fill it out, and email completed SAF Proposal forms to Wanda Ochei, Susan Cunningham, and Andrew Zimmerman.
For trips: An Event Determination Form (received by Student Activities once an Event Intent Form has been submitted to Student Activities and approved) must be submitted along with the proposal when the request involves a trip. Once a proposal is approved for a trip, each student attending must complete the Agreement of Policies and Expectations Form and submit prior to the date of the trip.
For more information on the Student Activity Fee and how to apply for funds, contact either Wanda Ochei or Andrew Zimmerman. You can also visit the University Park Student Activity Fee Board website.
If you are interested in being a part of the SAF committee, please speak with someone on the SGA Executive Board for additional information.
Student Facilities Fee
Penn State approved a student facilities fee to be implemented at the various campuses of the University beginning in Fall 2008. With the goal of enhancing the student experience, facilities fees are to be used to fund improvements and expansions to non-academic, recreational and multi-use space for students.
Funding Parameters
- The Facilities Fee will not be used to support ongoing operational costs associated with any project.
- The Facilities Fee will not be used to pay debt service.
- The Facilities Fee will not be used to pay for rental agreements.
- Monies raised from the Facilities Fee at a particular location will be used at that location.
- Monies not used in a particular year will be carried over from year to year for use when enough funds are generated to complete an approved project. Interest will be credited (using the University’s short term rate) on an annual basis to any unused funds.
- New facilities or modifications to current facilities will be consistent with the campus’ strategic and master physical facilities plans.
Process
Any student(s) can submit a request through the Student Facilities Fee Request Form to utilize the facility fee that is consistent with the above parameters. The request will then be forwarded to the Student Facilities Fee Committee, which is co-chaired by the Student Government Association (SGA) president and the Director of Student Services and Engagement (DSSE) for review. The committee is comprised of students and key members of the administration, with only students having voting privileges. If the proposal is approved by the committee it will be forwarded to the Chancellor’s office for further consideration.
Projects Funded
The following are some examples of Facilities-Fee funded proposals:
- Furniture for the Student Commons main lounge (supplemented by a grant from the Vice President of Commonwealth Campuses)
- Furniture in the basement lounge area of the Technology Center
- Air hockey table in Student Commons
- Various pictures of Penn State (both University Park and our local campus) as a way to enhance Penn State pride
- Significant enhancements to the weight room in the Athletics and Recreation Building
- New, larger Nittany Lion
- Outdoor furniture for the newly-developed plaza in front of the Student Commons
- Sound system enhancements in Science Center 101 for movie nights
- Renovation of the first floor of the Student Commons for a new club space and computer lab
Reporting
At least annually, a report will be made to the SGA about decisions rendered by the committee; email summaries will be sent via list serve to the entire student body.
Documents and Forms: