Southern Oregon University is facing a tough financial challenge. After gathering over 1,000 emails and community feedback, the university adjusted its financial plan. The new proposal aims to save $9.8 million over the next three years, which is a slight reduction from the earlier plan of $10.4 million. This year alone, they plan to cut over $5 million.
Some programs, like economics and Native American studies, will remain, thanks to strong support from the community. However, others, like the mathematics major and marketing minor, will be cut.
During a recent Board of Trustees meeting, President Rick Bailey addressed the challenges head-on. He acknowledged that the situation is not ideal. “No one is happy about the plan,” he said. He emphasized the need to take action to secure the university’s future, citing rising costs and declining enrollment as pressing issues.
Faculty Senate Chair Dennis Slattery expressed concern about student retention. He mentioned that students have been leaving for other institutions that better meet their needs.
The updated plan also involves cutting 67 positions, including vacancies and retirements. This follows two years of previous cuts that affected 82 positions. Melissa Anderson, head of the teaching faculty union, warned that these cuts might hurt both enrollment and revenue.
Comments during the meeting mostly focused on the implications for specific departments and programs. Bailey, despite the circumstances, remained hopeful. He noted that embracing the current challenges might position the university for long-term success.
Overall, the Board of Trustees will vote on this revised plan on September 2nd. The situation is fluid, and many hope that the university will find a way to navigate through these turbulent times.
In the larger context, trends reveal that many universities across the nation are facing similar issues. According to a recent survey by the National Student Clearinghouse, enrollment drops have been a significant concern for institutions. Universities are expected to adapt quickly to meet evolving student demands.
For further insights into this ongoing issue, you can read more on JPR’s report.
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Education | Higher Education | Southern Oregon
