Rider University is facing tough times. By December 31, the school plans to cut 25% of its full-time faculty due to financial issues that have put it on probation. This was announced by President John Loyack as part of the “March to Sustainability Plan.”
Along with laying off 35 to 40 faculty members, the plan includes significant pay cuts for all employees—14% to be exact. There’s also an indefinite halt on retirement contributions starting December 1. Faculty will be expected to teach more classes each semester, which has raised concerns about the quality of education.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education placed Rider on probation after expressing worries about its financial health. Losing accreditation would mean students could no longer receive federal financial aid, further complicating the university’s situation.
Maria Villalobos-Buehner, who leads Rider’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), criticized the administration’s approach: “We’ve been hearing the same narrative for years. Faculty are often left to shoulder the burden of financial decisions made by the Board.”
Justin Burton, a music professor, voiced his alarm over the potential layoffs. “It’s an alarmingly high number. It affects not just those laid off but all of us,” he said. He highlighted his worry that increased teaching loads would dilute the quality of education provided. “When faculty are stretched thin, it impacts the classroom experience.”
In response to the financial crisis, Loyack mentioned ongoing discussions with faculty leaders about the situation. Villalobos-Buehner emphasized the need for transparency and collaboration in addressing the financial hurdles the university faces.
The Board of Trustees approved the sustainability plan amid significant financial deficits that have plagued the university. Burton pointed out the responsibility of past board members. “It’s the Board’s job to foresee financial trouble, not just react to it,” he said.
According to Middle States, schools must demonstrate financial stability to maintain accreditation, as outlined in their guidelines. Rider is tasked with submitting a report to prove compliance by January 12, 2026. They also need to outline a teach-out plan by December 19, providing guidance for students if accreditation is revoked.
In Loyack’s email to the community, he expressed gratitude for feedback during this challenging time. He plans to meet with the Student Government Association to discuss the sustainability plan further. Villalobos-Buehner reminded everyone that faculty members are not just professionals; they are individuals with families and lives deeply affected by these decisions.
This situation reflects a broader trend in higher education, where many institutions are grappling with financial instability. As schools face increased scrutiny, the importance of transparent decision-making becomes even more crucial for maintaining trust within the academic community.
For more information, you can visit the official pages detailing the [March to Sustainability Plan](https://www.rider.edu/about/news/march-sustainability-plan) and [Middle States Standards](https://www.msche.org/). Keep an eye out for updates in the Nov. 12 edition of The Rider News.
