The national economic crisis and University budget cuts and their effects dominated Thursday’s University Council meeting.

“We’re facing an economic crisis of a magnitude not seen since World War II,” said University President Michael Adams, who addressed the $100 special spring student fee.

“All employees and all students have a role to play in addressing this budget crisis,” he said.

Adams’ opening remarks stressed the seriousness of the situation and the University’s ability to overcome the hard times. The $100 fee is part of a “tiered approach” to address the budget crunch.

“Students are being asked to step up,” he said.

Adams also acknowledged the University’s contribution to decreases in employee PPO and HMO health care plans, but he said now is the time for those with jobs and benefits to be thankful they have them at all.

The state and national economic reality guided the Board of Regents’ decision to approve the fee, but the BOR was being “prudent” in its action, Adams said.

“As much as I regret increases, I do believe they are justified,” he said.

Stuart Ivy, president of the Staff Council, expressed concern that budget changes would affect low wage workers more and asked the council to consider the ramifications.

Additionally, the council approved a proposal to combine the fisheries and wildlife majors. David Shipley, curriculum committee chair, said the combination is intended to bring in more students.

The council also approved proposals to offer an adult education major at the Gwinnett campus and terminate the instructional psychology, training and technology majors.