Southern Oregon University Announces Major Budget Cuts Impacting Students and Faculty
ASHLAND, Ore. — Southern Oregon University (SOU) is set to implement substantial budget cuts that will substantially affect its academic offerings and community. The university plans to eliminate 15 majors—including outdoor leadership, chemistry, and media innovation—and discontinue 11 minors. Approximately 64 employees may be affected by these decisions.
President Rick Bailey is spearheading the initiative to reduce the university’s budget by 15% over the next three years in a bid to address a $5 million deficit. These cuts are projected to save SOU over $10 million, but the ramifications are already being felt within the campus community. Concerns have arisen among students and their families, especially those entering the university soon. One concerned sibling expressed worries for their incoming freshman brother, noting uncertainty about his academic path in light of the cuts.
Moreover, the potential impact on students already enrolled in these programs remains unclear, raising questions about their educational futures. The university has yet to comment on how these changes will directly affect existing students.
Efforts to reach Southern Oregon University for further clarification have been unsuccessful, and the situation continues to evolve. A packet detailing SOU’s proposed budget cuts is available for public view, offering insights into the institution’s plans moving forward.
As the university navigates this challenging period, students, faculty, and community members are left waiting for updates on the implications of these significant changes.
Grace Ritz, a multimedia journalist at NewsWatch 12, can be reached at gritz@kdrv.com for further inquiries.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
