It has been impressive to read about all the accomplishments of retiring University of New England President Danielle Ripich.

Keeping UNE affordable for students has apparently not been high on her priority list, however.

University of New England tuition alone is $35,598 per year; add in room and board and the cost climbs to $48,880. Compare this with in-state tuition at the University of Southern Maine: $8,920; $18,320 with room and board.

To put it another way, UNE charges $1,210 per credit hour, versus in state USM charge of $253. They choose not to report average student indebtedness upon graduation.

With costs already that high, why on earth is UNE adding a very expensive football program next year?

Betsey Remage-Healey

Peaks Island

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