We, the concerned students, alumni, faculty, and residents of Boca Raton, Florida, call upon Florida Atlantic University (FAU) and the city of Boca Raton to urgently address the critical issue of student housing. It is imperative that both entities work together to develop more student housing options or restructure existing policies to prevent upperclassmen and student graduate employees from being evicted to make room for incoming freshmen.

The current for-profit model employed by FAU that accepts a surplus of incoming freshmen is not only unsustainable but also detrimental to the overall well-being and academic success of its students. This is evident in FAU's abnormally high transfer-out rate compared to other universities across the nation.

Here are some relevant facts supporting our petition:

1. Lack of Student Housing: The demand for student housing at FAU far exceeds the available supply. Many upperclassmen struggle each year to secure suitable accommodation on or near campus due to limited options.

2. Eviction Practices: Upperclassmen and student graduate employees who have established themselves within the community are often forced out of their living arrangements when new freshmen enroll. This disrupts their stability, academic progress, mental health, and overall college experience.

3. Negative Impact on Academic Performance: Studies show that stable housing plays a crucial role in students' ability to succeed academically. Disrupting upperclassmen's living situations can lead to increased stress levels and negatively impact their educational outcomes.

4. Transfer-Out Rate: According to publicly available data from reputable sources such as U.S News & World Report (2021), FAU has a significantly higher transfer-out rate compared with other universities in Florida with similar enrollment sizes.

We believe it is essential for FAU administration and city officials in Boca Raton to prioritize this issue by taking immediate action:

1. Collaborate on Student Housing Initiatives: FAU and the city of Boca Raton should work together to develop more affordable, accessible, and sustainable student housing options. This collaboration will ensure that upperclassmen and student graduate employees are not unfairly displaced.

2. Restructure Housing Policies: FAU must revise its housing policies to prioritize the needs of its current students. Implementing a fair allocation system that considers seniority, academic standing, and financial need will help prevent unjust evictions.

3. Long-Term Planning: Both FAU and the city of Boca Raton should engage in long-term planning to address the growing demand for student housing. This includes exploring partnerships with private developers or seeking funding opportunities to expand on-campus housing facilities.

By signing this petition, we urge Florida Atlantic University and the city of Boca Raton to recognize the urgency of this matter and take immediate steps towards developing more student housing options or restructuring existing policies. Together, let's ensure a fairer, more supportive environment for all students at FAU!