Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for a Student Technology Fee grant?

• Western Washington University faculty, staff, or students (through an Associated Student organization) may apply.
• Any grouping of faculty, staff, and students may apply together.

How are Student Technology Fee proposals submitted?

See STF Proposal Form and Instructions on this website.

• Proposals that involve site preparation are due in draft form to Space Administration three or four weeks before the final proposal due date each year.
• All proposals must be submitted both electronically and by delivering eight paper copies on the final proposal due date.
• Proposals originating from departments within colleges must be approved by the college dean. The dean's office then submits that college's STF proposals in one bundle to the Provost's Office on the due date. This enables the college to stay informed as to who is submitting what proposal, and what equipment is being sought by departments.
• Please allow time for your college dean to review and approve your proposal before the STF due date.

Do other schools have a Student Technology Fee?

Yes, most Washington state colleges and universities have a Student Technology Fee. Technology fees at other Washington state universities:

• Central Washington University: $25 per quarter
• Eastern Washington University: $35 per quarter
• University of Washington: $41 per quarter
• Washington State University: none
• Western Washington University: $25 per quarter (as of 2009-10 academic year; previously $17)

Does the Student Technology Fee pay for printing in computer labs?

The Student Technology Fee (STF) does not cover ongoing supply costs for computer labs.

With the exception of the Student Technology Center, which was established in part with STF funds, the STF program does not fund ongoing operating expenses.

Printing supplies in the General University Computer Labs (such as paper, toner, printer repairs, etc.) come out of the operating budget for Academic Technology & User Services (ATUS).

Does the Student Technology Fee pay the University computer personnel salaries?

The Student Technology Fee (STF) policies currently do not permit paying any permanent salaries. In general, the STF has not even been allocated to pay student salaries.

Who decides the amount of the Student Technology Fee?

The Associated Students of Western Washington University are asked to vote on proposed increases to the fee. Western's Board of Trustees must then approve all student fees. A fee increase was last voted on and approved in spring 2009.

How can I help decide how the Student Technology Fee fund is spent?

If you're a Western student:

• Get involved by voting in Associated Students (AS) elections when Student Technology Fee (STF) increases are proposed.
• Ask the AS about how to participate more actively; one AS Board member chairs the STF Committee.
• Review the STF proposals for potential funding posted on this website each year. (2012 proposals will be posted by January 1, 2012.)
• Submit comments on the proposals to the STF Committee.

If you're a Western faculty or staff member:

• Review the Student Technology Fee (STF) proposals for potential funding posted on this website each year. (2012 proposals will be posted by January 1, 2012.)
• Submit comments on the proposals to the STF Committee.

What doesn't the Student Technology Fee pay for?

The Student Technology Fee (STF) does not cover costs for:

• Buildings
• Salaries
• Supply costs for STF-funded items
• Maintenance for STF-funded items
• Residence hall computer lab equipment or supplies
• Bandwidth for residence halls
• ResTek or ATUS Help Desk staffing

What technology has the Student Technology Fee brought to campus?

• Student modem pool
• Wireless laptop loan program
• Computers for General University and department labs
• GPS devices
• SLR cameras and video equipment
• Sound and lighting equipment
• Microscopes
• Specialty printers

For a complete list, see the STF Project History page.

Does the University contribute to the Student Technology Fee?

No, the University no longer contributes to the Student Technology Fee (STF) fund. However, the STF fund may be supplemented on an individual project basis through matching funds from college departments or other grants.

What is the timeline for the Student Technology Fee proposal process?

See proposal timeline for the current academic year on the Student Technology Fee Proposal Process page.