VOTE YES:
We are in favor of measure 95, a proposed amendment to the Oregon Constitution, which would allow public Universities in Oregon to invest in equities. Similar measures have been approved in other states, such as Wyoming and California, and private universities have been investing in equities for decades. For years now, private Universities have been investing in equities, and their investments have yielded positive results. Princeton, MIT, Bowdoin each had returns of more than 12%, from their investments. For the university of Yale; over the last 30 years, the university has made an average return of 12.9% per year, which adds up to about 26.6 billion dollars. For reasons such as this, very few politicians are against such measures. Measure 95 would benefit Oregon’s public Universities by reducing financial risk and increasing funds for students to use. Any additional investment income could benefit students by minimizing tuition prices and enhancing student programs. This wouldn't cost anymore money for a taxpayer and this measure would greatly benefit the youth, who are our future. Voting yes for Measure 95, is a win win for everyone. |
VOTE NO:
Measure 95 (2016), also known as the Oregon Public University Diversification of Investments Amendment will be on the ballot this November as a Constitutional Amendment (as referred by Legislature). This measure will allow for public universities to invest in equities in hopes to reduce financial risk, and increase investments for the benefit of students. This will be applicable to section 6 of the Article XI within the Oregon Constitution. Although, this measure poses controversy as there is no proof that this will make smaller colleges (for example, Portland State University) any money. Currently, schools that use this/support this measure have been larger, more expensive Ivy League schools. This is an issue for those smaller colleges because of their inability to invest because of financial constraint- making this measure useless and potentially debilitating. Many colleges who may invest in Measure 95 might end up spending most of the money on financial advisors and representatives, ultimately illustrating that where the money may/may not go is unclear. This insecurity can pose a threat for schools and universities in the sense that these decisions can lead to failure of appropriate spending, or financial instability. |