January 20, 1998 Contact: Elizabeth Latt 615-322-2706 elizabeth.p.latt@vanderbilt.edu

Vanderbilt professors offer perspectives

on higher education costs

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - With the report of the National Commission on the Cost of Higher Education scheduled for release Wednesday, two Vanderbilt University economic professors who have studied the rising costs of university operations and services are available for comment. John Siegfried and Malcolm Getz authored "Economic Challenges in Higher Education" in 1991 and have continued to follow trends in higher education costs. Among the factors Siegfried cites as contributing to higher administrative costs at universities are increased campus security and fund-raising efforts and the competition among universities to enhance their position in national rankings. Getz says the widening gap between the earnings of individuals with college degrees and those with only high school diplomas has created a demand that has driven up college costs.

To arrange an interview with either Siegfried or Getz, call (615) 322-2706.

-VU-

Vanderbilt University is a private research university of approximately 5,900 undergraduates and 4,300 graduate and professional students. Founded in 1873, the University comprises 10 schools, a public policy institute, a distinguished medical center and The Freedom Forum First Amendment Center. Vanderbilt offers undergraduate programs in the liberal arts and sciences, education and human development, engineering and music, and a full range of graduate and professional degrees.

For more news about Vanderbilt, visit the News and Public Affairs home page on the Internet at http://www.vanderbilt.edu/News.