FOI #23-498 (11-4-23, 7:21 pm) - Subject - Freedom of Information Request – Allocation of University Funds to Sports and Academics
Name - Student Student
Affiliation - UConn Daily Campus Columnist
Under the Connecticut Freedom of Information Act (Conn. Gen. Stat. §1-200 et seq.), I hereby submit a request for access to and copies of records detailing the University of Connecticut's financial allocations and expenditures on sports programs, academic departments, institutions, and research facilities for the fiscal years (2010-2023)
The nature of my journalistic inquiry is grounded in the public interest, with the purpose of informing UConn students, faculty, stakeholders, and the broader community about how tuition fees and public funds are being utilized within the university. It is vital for students and their families, who invest significantly in their education, to understand where their money is going and how it is shaping the academic and athletic environment of UConn. This transparency is not only essential for accountability but also contributes to informed decision-making by prospective students and donors.
The focus of my investigation is to discern whether there is a balanced support between the university's renowned sports programs and the academic and research growth on campus, including any plans or ongoing construction of new institutions or research facilities. This analysis aims to ensure the well-rounded development of the university's offerings and resources.
To assist in this endeavor, I am requesting the following records:
Detailed annual budget reports for the specified period, showing the funding allocations to both athletic and academic programs.
Capital expenditure reports related to the construction of new sports facilities, institutions, or research facilities within the university grounds.
Strategic plans, board meeting minutes, or internal communications discussing funding priorities or changes affecting sports and academic departments, including any construction of new facilities.
Comparative financial analyses, if available, showing the trends in funding allocations between sports and academics over the specified period.
I believe that the disclosure of these records is in the public interest and will not only contribute to a better understanding of UConn's financial priorities but will also provide a vital transparency that reinforces trust and accountability in the university's stewardship of its resources.