Bill > HB443

This bill addresses declining enrollment at the University of Hawaii at Hilo by appropriating funds for specific staffing and enrollment management initiatives. The legislature recognizes that UH Hilo has experienced three consecutive years of falling enrollment, with challenges including limited brand recognition outside Hawaii, difficulties retaining mainland students, and increased online educational alternatives. To combat these issues, the bill provides funding for two new staff positions: a retention coordinator and an internship coordinator, along with resources for student enrollment management initiatives. While the specific dollar amounts are not filled in within the bill text, the funding is proposed for fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, with the intent of providing the university with dedicated resources to improve student recruitment, retention, and overall enrollment strategies. The bill is designed to support the university's efforts to stabilize and potentially grow its student population by investing in targeted personnel and programmatic interventions. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000 (which appears to be a placeholder date likely meant to be 2024 or 2025).