Government institutions and organizations have been putting the pressure on public higher education institutions recently.

There is pressure to work with smaller budgets, pump out degrees and complete in a global market, among others. Indiana follows this trend.

Governor Mitch Daniels pushed for three-year degree programs, wanting students to get a timely education and quickly become a part of the real world.

USI President Linda Bennett almost seemed to be feeling the pressures on higher education at the recent board of trustees meeting last Thursday in Indianapolis. Bennett’s presentation to the board was defensive of USI and its policies.

For example, one criticism was the administrative “blokes” in higher education, but Bennett defended the 45.5 instructors hired since 2005 by giving a few examples of what the positions were and what have been accomplished through them.

“We have done that within the ability of our budget,” Bennett said. Graduation rate statistics were also mentioned. Bennett said 16-17 percent of full-time students graduate in four years, with 35-36% graduating in six.

Bennett attributed these numbers to things outside of the influence of universities. Things such as family income level and family experience in higher education are two such factors.

Not all of the presentation had the defensive tone.

Some of the presentation also highlighted recent accomplishments by the university. One such achievement is the recent China International Partnership Program, which was announced during the meeting.

The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Education for improving post-secondary education.

“My understanding is that there were many applications and that they were very impressed with the level of dedication to the opportunity in China by USI,” Bennett said.

USI is one of ten universities that got chosen to participate. Bennett made a trip to China back in August on behalf of the university for the program. “I’m really excited to see this continue,” Bennett said.

“This is a good development for us as we look ahead in expanding international education efforts on our campus.” Bennett went on to talk about how far ahead USI is of other schools. She cited things such as the increase in enrollment in online classes as well as the expansion of summer course opportunities.

The president finished out her presentation by emphasizing the need to look ahead and striving for improvement by sticking to the strategic plan and moving forward.

“I think there is more that we can do,” Bennett said.