Support Haskell University: Join the Foundation’s Efforts to Boost Donations and Take Action After Recent Layoffs

LAWRENCE, Kan. — Haskell Indian Nations University is facing challenges after sudden layoffs affected many of its staff. The Haskell Foundation is reaching out to the community for support.

On their website, the foundation shared a message asking for donations to assist the Haskell community. They emphasize that financial help isn’t the only thing they need. They also urge supporters to contact their representatives in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the university.

On February 14, the university announced that all probationary staff members were let go as part of a federal initiative. This type of situation is unique because Haskell is a federally funded institution, managed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

A letter from the Board of Regents revealed that the university lost about 23% of its staff due to these cuts. In response, the Haskell Foundation stepped in to provide assistance during this difficult time.

The remaining staff are feeling overwhelmed. The foundation aims to support those left at Haskell to minimize the impact of these layoffs on students.

The Haskell Foundation is working hard to raise $350,000, which will be used in various ways to help the university:

• Athletics:
  • Offer part-time contracts for a few coaches for three months.
  • Hire a bus driver for three months.
  • Support other staff members for three months.
• Custodial:
  • Provide cleaning services or support 13 staff members for three months.
• Dining:
  • Fund 2-4 staff for three months.
• Assist students affected by delays in PELL grants.
• Help sustain remaining programs.
• Provide emergency assistance to those laid off and students.

However, the foundation made it clear that donations cannot be used to rehire the laid-off employees. They stressed the importance of following the federal processes regarding employment.

While we want to support our staff, we cannot guarantee that laid-off employees will be reinstated.

Currently, around 800 students are enrolled at Haskell, representing numerous tribal nations. The Haskell Foundation is dedicated to empowering Native American students and preserving the rich cultures of over 140 tribes across the country.