Economics Professor Sukhatme receives award

Vasant A. Sukhatme, Economics Professor, is this year’s recipient of the Thomas Jefferson Award. The award is bestowed upon a member of the Macalester community who exemplifies the principles and ideals of Thomas Jefferson. A fomer World Bank economist, Sukhatme has a Ph.D. in economics and joined Macalester in 1978. He teaches microeconomic theory and economic development. For over two decades, student evaluations have shown him to be a top professor in his department and he is often mentioned by alumni as leaving a lasting impact on his students. In 1999, Sukhatme won the Macalester Excellence in Teaching Award.

Board of Trustees approves fiscal year 2002-03 budget

The Board of Trustees recently approved a fiscal year 2002-03 operating budget of $77.989 million. The budget provides for a 4.91 percent increase in on-campus operating expenses, as well as $17.6 million for student financial aid, and $2.1 million for study-away programs. The new budget provides for a five percent increase in faculty and staff salary pools, while also increasing funding for new positions, market adjustments, and merit increase pools. The board agreed to halt renovation of residence halls until economic uncertainties are reduced. Planning is underway for future projects that will include fine arts, athletics and residence halls.

Annual Double Deal auction on April 10

Maction is currently accepting donations of items and services for this silent auction, which raises money for worthy causes. Students bid on items donated by faculty and staff. In the past, faculty and staff have donated rides to the airport, finals care packages and dinners with students. This year the event will benefit the White Earth Land Recovery Project, which facilitates the recovery of the original land base of the White Earth Indian Reservation, and the ongoing programs of the Children’s Hospital in St. Paul.

(Compiled by Bryanna Longley-Postema)