Tailgaters and protesters gathered outside the Union Plaza last Saturday as the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) faculty held a “Stop the Cuts” rally. This event aimed to highlight the potential impact of $27.5 million in budget cuts on the university community, coinciding with the Nebraska-Northwestern game.
Jake Kirkland Jr., a retired UNL employee of 30 years, joined the rally. He expressed concern over how these cuts might harm students and the university’s reputation. “If we want to be the flagship university, we need to lead, not follow,” he said, emphasizing that the proposed cuts could weaken the institution.
The American Association of University Professors (AAUP) at UNL noted that the cuts would eliminate 58 faculty positions and undermine the university’s educational mission. Jennifer Johnson Jorgensen, department chair of textiles, merchandising, and fashion design, shared that her department focuses on crucial areas like sustainability and textile engineering. She emphasized the industry’s need for skilled workers and the significant salaries of graduates—averaging $102,000, with about 50% staying in Nebraska.
Meanwhile, Luis Rosa, a professor in ethnic studies and Spanish, criticized the budget decisions made without faculty input. He pointed out that every dollar invested in the university generates ten dollars back into Nebraska’s economy, based on the NU System’s 2025 Economic Impact Report. The university contributes around $6.4 billion annually and $175 million in tax revenue, illustrating its value to the state.
However, concerns are growing that state investment in higher education is dwindling. Rosa noted a steep decline in spending for instruction over the past several years, even as administrative salaries have risen by 24%. Earlier this year, the Board of Regents approved $20 million in cuts due to insufficient state funding, a trend that could stifle economic and educational growth.
Despite $740 million in federal funding allocated to the NU system this year, some research dollars have been canceled, raising worries about potential future losses. Rosa urges for a more collaborative approach in decision-making. “Students and professors should guide the university, not distant administrators,” he asserted.
As the Board of Regents prepares to vote on these cuts in December, the community remains hopeful for a rethink of the proposed changes. The conversations happening now could shape the future of higher education in Nebraska, highlighting the importance of involvement from all university stakeholders.
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