LSSU Continues To Examine Budget After Additional State CutsPosted: March 24th, 2003March 24, 2003
SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. – While Governor Jennifer Granholm's proposed budget for the next fiscal year is not welcome news for Lake Superior State University, President Betty J. Youngblood is quick to point out that the cuts facing higher education next year are not unexpected.
Granholm proposes to cut 6.5% from the state appropriations to Michigan colleges and universities in 2003-04 in addition to the 3.5% already cut by executive orders in January and in February. The 10% cut translates into nearly $1.5 million that LSSU stands to lose in its budget.
"We understand that the state is in a serious situation and that all universities and state agencies are going to have to do their part in reducing the deficit," Youngblood said. We're supportive of the governor and we appreciate the difficult efforts she is making to balance the state's budget."
LSSU administration has been looking at ways of reducing University costs for several months. Since September, the University has reduced staffing and spending and has been evaluating every area of operation on campus. Youngblood said that nearly $2 million must still be cut from the budget in order to balance LSSU's budget and to meet the reduction in state appropriations. Budget reductions yet to be made will total about $1.7 million if the faculty agrees to a salary freeze for 2003-04. Salaries of other employee groups will be frozen for the next fiscal year.
Faculty and staff met for more than three hours on Saturday, March 22, to discuss strategic planning, academic reorganization, and possible budget reductions. Youngblood and Vice President for Academic Affairs Bruce T. Harger presented several different approaches to budget reductions. They also answered questions and asked faculty and staff for suggestions and input. They cautioned that the University's budget problems will not be solved in one year, just as turning around the state's fiscal health will take more than one year. Colleges and universities all over the country are dealing with similar challenges.
Youngblood emphasized that LSSU will make cuts in ways that are least disruptive to the campus and the education of students.
"LSSU is really a jewel in higher education in Michigan. We offer students meaningful hands-on experiences and opportunities to work closely and individually with a truly dedicated faculty and staff. The availability of this unique educational environment is important to every person in Michigan. We will not compromise quality at LSSU and everything we do we will continue to do well. Our students deserve the best." -LSSU-
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