Future economic factors impacting Kentucky State University include the following known facts:
Tuition and costs of attendance—Kentucky State University continues to weigh its costs of attendance with the funding provided by the General Assembly to successfully deliver its programs and remain one of the most affordable public institutions in the Commonwealth. Funding levels and methodologies used for institutions of higher education in the Commonwealth are developed and approved by the Council on Postsecondary Education.
Quality Enhancement Plan—Academics with Attitude—in 2009, the University developed a plan to address student success. This initiative was part of the University's accreditation reaffirmation process as required by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The plan focuses on student readiness for college level courses. A pilot phase was successfully conducted in Summer 2009 with full implementation planned for Fall 2010.
Enrollment growth and student retention—Kentucky State University recruits a diverse student body of traditional, nontraditional and transfer students seeking baccalaureate and advanced degrees. Enrollment growth and retention continues to be a priority of University management.
Program expansion—the University is well positioned to meet the needs of Kentuckyians by its programs and educational activities. The University offers the following programs: Bachelors in Mass Communications and Journalism, a Masters of Art in Special Education, and a Masters in Business Administration, a Masters in Public Administration, a Masters in Computer Science, and a Masters in Environmental Studies
Regional Stewardship—Kentucky State University began the initiative to meet the economic and community needs of its area of geographic responsibility through collaborative initiatives with businesses, community-based organizations, schools and other educational agencies, citizens and local and state officials.
The overall financial position of the University strengthened during fiscal year 2010. Revenue streams remain secure and steady. As the University adapts to present economic environments, new opportunities for funding will be explored to complement state support. Executive management's goal is to deliver exceptional programs and services to students and constituents while maintaining financial integrity. Management believes Kentucky State University is able to sustain its sound financial position and solidify its progress toward becoming a regional university of excellence.
Figure 4 illustrates the ratios comprising the composite financial index. The graph depicts a graphic view of Kentucky State University's financial profile that identifies the financial strengths and weaknesses that may exist. Based on the illustration, Kentucky State University has relatively strong operating results. The primary reserve ratio is reduced primarily resulting in a reduction in state funding for capital expansion. The viability ratio is plotted slightly within the inner bounds, but shows that Kentucky State University has significant net assets to satisfy its debt obligations.
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