CAPE WELCOMES RETURN OF SOUTHEAST STUDENTS

Although the calendar doesn't yet agree, the start of school signals an end to summer. Most area public and private schools will gear up classes this week. Cape Girardeau also welcomes back thousands of Southeast Missouri State University students for the start of classes Monday.

While some may gripe about the additional traffic, the benefits far outweigh any inconveniences. The presence of university students and staff is significant to Cape Girardeau County. They add numbers to our population base, and bring dollars to boost our economy. The university also provides a host of cultural and educational opportunities for the entire region.

It appears the number of students this fall may be down about 400, but part of this decline is due to action rather than accident. Through tougher admission standards, the university turned away over 250 potential students. But university officials are hopeful enhanced admission standards will spell a lowered dropout rate for those who are enrolled.

Total fall enrollment should stand around 8,000. That compares to about 9,144 in the fall of 1986.

Students will be greeted by some new faces, and considerable construction. Among the new faces is Charles Kupchella, Southeast's new provost, who assumed his duties in May. Major renovations are well under way at the Towers complex and the social science building. The Towers West high rise is closed this semester for refurbishing. Remodeling of the social science building has relocated offices and classes for sociology, anthropology, political science and history departments to Kent Library. But the inconvenience may prove well worth the wait. The science building - erected in 1902 - is the oldest building on campus and was in desperate need of major renovation.

One of the major disappointments for students and staff is a continued stalemate on the proposed College of Business Administration building. Legislative inaction last May killed any chance of immediate construction for the proposed 100,000 square foot building.

Southeast isn't alone. Funding for new buildings at most state universities has been at a standstill for several years.

This business school remains a top priority for both the university and community. Southeast has raised $2.8 million as the local share. If the project continues to fall short in Jefferson City, local efforts may need to take charge to move this project forward. As one of the premier majors at Southeast, the university needs a top-notch facility. Business classes are now scattered throughout campus. This building could help Southeast earn national accreditation.

Like the seasons, the start of another school year is a reassuring part of the ebb and flow of community life. Welcome back students.