To the editor:

The Feb. 19 "Coconino Voices" column raised questions regarding Northern Arizona University's graduation rate but omitted some important information. NAU's four-year graduation rate is actually better than most of its peers. In fact, NAU's four-year graduation rate is 58 percent higher than when the author graduated in 1994. The author also challenged NAU to show students we are concerned. We gladly accept that challenge.

NAU has numerous programs and aids to help students graduate in a timely and successful manner. The norm of four-year graduation is established and reinforced to all incoming freshmen with a pledge that guarantees tuition for four years. NAU's four-year graduation guarantee program — Finish in Four — offers intensive advising and support for students who are committed to completing their degree in four years. An array of services helps students select their major, develop educational and career plans, and be successful academically and socially. The university offers living-learning communities that promote student and faculty interaction in the residence halls as well as mechanisms to monitor student progress and to intervene when there are signs of difficulty.

One sure-fire way to raise graduation rates is to increase our selectivity of incoming freshman — a method used by private institutions. Public universities, however, have missions to offer access to higher education, because all qualified students deserve that opportunity. Any student who wants to earn a degree from NAU will discover the tools for a successful partnership.

KAREN PUGLIESI

Flagstaff