Administrator: UIW ACCESS ensures students get books

By David Peters LOGOS STAFF WRITER

When the University of the Incarnate Word implemented its UIW ACCESS program last fall to ensure students had books and other materials, some students like senior David Blake weren’t thrilled.

“I opened my student bill in early August. and was shocked to see a charge of $980 for a student university fee,” Blake said. “I had no idea what this fee was, so I called the Business Office and they explained it was for books.”

Between 2021-22 and 2022-23 the university student fee increased from $500 to $980 per term. The bulk of that increase likely is attributable to UIW ACCESS. According to the UIW website, UIW ACCESS delivers “the most up-to-date e-books or printed textbooks to students” a week before the first day class.

“UIW recognizes that it is critical for students to have those materials on hand and ready for use as they begin each term,” according to a statement from the website.

The student fee isn’t just about books, Dr. Kevin Vichcales, an associate provost for undergraduate and graduate education, points out.

The university student fee also underwrites multiple services and programming from a variety of areas including: (a) wellness/natatorium; (b)

Dr Kevin Vichcales health services; (c) student/ campus life; (d) counseling services; (e) library; (f) tutoring services; (g) writing support center; and (h) the UIW ACCESS program.