University administrators would have everyone believe that Penn State is a bastion of cultural diversity and racial tolerance.

But behind the public relation's facade lies the truth. While improvements in minority enrollment have been made, Penn State is still far from the diverse enrollment crucial to a truly enriched learning environment.

In-state African-American and Latino/Hispanic applications have increased by 8 percent since last year. As a state-related university, it is essential that Penn State focus on increasing its in-state minority students.

Recruiters must continue to visit high schools and recruit minority students, but these efforts should be expanded.

While attracting these students, the University must not forget about non-resident applicants. Out-of-state African-American applications have decreased by 9 percent since last year, dropping from 1,346 to 1,219. Latino/Hispanic applications have decreased by 6 percent, dropping from 760 to 711. Despite the fewer applications, paid-accepts for out-of-state African-American and Latino/Hispanic students increased 4 percent compared to last year.

Unfortunately, even when minority students do apply, the University has trouble keeping them. Often, financial problems contribute to the loss. Yearly tuition increases only add to this problem. Re-evaluating financial aid is an integral part of keeping minority students at Penn State.

The University must also work to create an atmosphere supportive of minority students by hiring more minority faculty and making the Paul Robeson Cultural Center a higher priority. These factors will provide much-needed support for minority students on campus.

Diversity is an important part of education and minority enrollment is a key factor. Efforts to recruit and retain minority students here must continue to improve if Penn State is to change its lily-white, intolerant image.