Christian Brothers University (CBU) is facing significant challenges as it restructures to improve its finances. Recently, the university announced plans to cut 16 full-time faculty positions by the end of the spring semester. Interim President Chris Englert made it clear that while faculty cuts are necessary, academic programs will remain intact, allowing students to finish their degrees without major interruptions.
Earlier this month, CBU received good news when its accreditor lifted probation status after two years. This improvement came as the university worked hard to close a big deficit. In fall 2023, CBU declared financial exigency, a serious step that allows layoffs of tenured professors. This decision was driven by a sharp decline in undergraduate enrollment—over 30% from 2018 to 2023—paired with unmet goals for new freshman enrollment.
Recent data shows that in October 2023, CBU cut several high-ranking administrative positions, which helped reduce the deficit by $1 million. Still, the situation remained tense. In December 2023, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools placed CBU on probation over concerns about financial stability and governance. The university responded by eliminating 28 faculty positions and discontinuing low-enrollment programs such as English, History, and Ecology.
By last fall, CBU leaders expressed optimism about their path forward. They reported a significant drop in their budget deficit to $2.5 million, with increases in first-year student enrollment. After a year of improvements, the university officially came off probation, a moment President Englert described as a vital achievement for the institution.
However, recent statistics indicate that CBU still faces enrollment issues. Reports show a drop of about one-third in its student body from 2024 to 2025. Englert has set a target for improving the faculty-to-student ratio to 12-to-1, stressing that these changes will help with long-term stability. As enrollment patterns shift, the university must continue to adapt to remain viable.
This situation highlights a broader trend in higher education. Across many institutions, colleges are re-evaluating their programs and staffing in response to declining enrollment and financial pressures. With proper strategies and ongoing adjustments, schools like CBU can indeed emerge stronger from these difficulties.
For further details on CBU’s accreditation updates, you can check their official website here.
