Student Leaders Demand Change: Join the Protest for Accountability from the University President

In a recent message, Wilkes University Student Government President Adam Butterwick called on students to join him and other leaders in protesting President Greg Cant’s handling of the university’s budget crisis. Butterwick described the situation as critical, urging students to help navigate what he believes could be an unnecessary financial and social crisis.

The university is facing a budget shortfall of nearly $8 million. Butterwick emphasized that transparency has been lacking regarding this deficit. In a previous communication, President Cant assured students that the budget issues wouldn’t affect campus life, but many are now questioning that assertion.

Partnering with fellow leaders John Sudol, Penelope Ziegler, and Emma Broda, Butterwick is organizing a peaceful demonstration at Weckesser Hall on November 25 at 11 a.m. He highlighted several concerns about the budget deficit, including possible cuts to essential services like “Colonels are Covered,” tuition hikes, and the recent elimination of the university’s general counsel position.

In President Cant’s email from November 18, he mentioned changes within his cabinet, including the removal of the general counsel role, which had been held by Elizabeth Leo. This decision has raised eyebrows, as it’s common for universities to have such positions, especially when dealing with complex legal matters. Leo’s responsibilities, including her role as Title IX officer, have been passed on to Nicole Langan, the director of residence life.

Student leaders are demanding a clearer understanding of how the university arrived at this financial state. Social media has seen a surge of student reactions, with many sharing their concerns and pledging to attend the demonstration. Ziegler confirmed that a sign-making event will take place at Abide Coffeehouse on November 24 from 5 to 7 p.m.

This situation at Wilkes reflects a wider trend in higher education, where many universities are grappling with financial challenges. According to a recent report by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators, over 40% of colleges have faced financial strain in the last few years.

Students are feeling the pressure, and this movement at Wilkes University highlights their determination to fight for transparency and accountability. The outcome of their demonstration may influence how the university moves forward and how other institutions respond to similar financial issues.



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