The Office of Student Life has changed its Student Activity and Student Representation fees from an opt-in to an opt-out service for the Spring semester.
On Jan. 15, the then-director of student activities, Dr. Ricky Gutierrez Maldanado, sent a Canvas announcement as well as an email. The announcement informed about the change and provided the link to the opt-out form.
“Moving from an opt-in to an opt-out approach results in higher student participation,” said Dr. Ricardo Marmolejo, dean of Student Services.
While the fees are still optional, not every student knows about them.
The Collegian asked thirty random Delta students about the fee on Jan. 24. Only six knew about the changes, and only four of the six even knew what the fees were for.
The student Activity fees are used to fund student activities, clubs and scholarships.
“It’s important to note that the Student Activity Fee is still optional and Delta College is working to make sure all students are aware of their opportunity to opt-out before the deadline,” Marmalejo said.
Delta sent out two emails on Jan. 15 and 23 to students and two Canvas announcements on Jan. 10 and 15.
“Increased funding for student resources is important as we see enrollment increase with more students coming back to campus. The funds from the Student Activity Fee help ensure that students receive robust representation from the Associated Students of Delta College and allow for a broader range of activities, events, resources, and services that benefit the entire student body. By moving from an opt-in to and[sic] opt-out approach, it lessens the possibility of activities from being underfunded,” said Marmolejo.
