Sonoma State University Eliminates Athletic Department and Key Education Programs: What It Means for Students and the Future

ROHNERT PARK, Calif. – Sonoma State University is facing a tough challenge. With a $24 million budget shortfall, the university announced it will cut all eleven sports programs. This decision also affects many faculty members and other programs, leading to frustration and anger among students and staff during campus meetings.

Many at the university feel like they are losing a vital part of their community. “We want to save Sonoma athletics,” said Marcus Ziemer, the head coach of Men’s Soccer.

The announcement was made suddenly, with little warning. Administrators explained that the cuts aim to better serve current and future students amidst a changing educational landscape. However, a lot is on the line.

In addition to ending athletics, the university plans to cut jobs for 46 faculty members, community lectures, and several educational programs, including art history, dance, and women’s studies. “We’re not sure how extensive the cuts will be, but it’s concerning,” Professor Ron Lopez shared. “We will fight for our university and our students.”

Some faculty members believe there may be bigger plans at play, suggesting the administration might be trying to close the campus altogether. A major factor in this crisis is a sharp 38% decline in enrollment over the past decade, leading to significant losses in tuition and funding.

The situation feels like a sudden disaster. “I moved my family here just a few months ago because I believed in this athletic department,” said Coach Jacob Garsez. “We had national championships and a strong history. Now, it’s all slipping away.”

For student athletes, the news is heartbreaking. “It’s disrespectful how this has been handled. We came back to campus, paid for housing, and found out just days into the school year that our programs were cut,” expressed student athlete Taylor Hodges. Another student, Johnny Sprague, added, “You can’t just tear apart a family that has formed here.”

The loss of these programs doesn’t just affect athletes; it impacts the entire campus vibe. “Even my non-athlete roommates are saying they don’t want to come back next year,” shared Avery Kratz.

Although Sonoma State may not be as recognized as larger schools, it still boasts a rich athletic history, including former NFL Hall of Famer Larry Allen.