SBU Vice President: Editorial on University Enrollment 'Misses the Mark'

Following a Newsday editorial that suggested a cap on Stony Brook University enrollment would help solve the problem of illegal off-campus student housing, a high-level Stony Brook official has published a reply saying that idea "misses the mark."

Elaine Crosson, vice president of external relations, said capping enrollment at SBU would limit students' access to affordable, top-notch programs that will prepare them to "make up the next generation of innovators and employees to fuel the national and regional economy."

Newsday's original editorial also suggested SBU build more dormitories to ease the problem of illegal off-campus student housing – which Crosson said takes "time, money and state legislation."

She also said SBU's housing numbers have the highest number of beds when compared to the other three SUNY university centers, and SBU has on-campus housing numbers equal to or better than other colleges on Long Island.

Recently, the Town of Brookhaven has been stepping up its enforcement and expansion of existing housing codes, as well as hiking fines for those who violate the codes.

In her letter to Newsday, Crosson wrote:

"So rather than limiting enrollment, the public discourse must be about obtaining the right mix of on- and off-campus housing. Building dormitories takes time, money and state legislation. ... Stony Brook is building campus housing consistent with current and future enrollment demands. But not all students choose to live on campus. That is why Stony Brook is working on multiple approaches to solve the demand for housing. That includes educating students about residential options and working with the community to develop off-campus housing in an area that is zoned accordingly. We believe this is a more rational approach than limiting access to a quality, affordable education, much of it in disciplines that are most in demand."

What do you think about the idea of Stony Brook capping its enrollment? Do you agree with Newsday's editorial or SBU's response, or do you have another solution to offer? Log in to Patch and tell us in the comments.