News Summary

The University of Louisiana Monroe is bracing for a budget shortfall between $5 million to $6 million, prompting plans for staff furloughs. As the fiscal year-end approaches on June 30, the university is seeking approval for these measures, with interim President Nick Bruno commiting to minimize the impact on employees. Alongside the furloughs, a hiring freeze is in effect, and other cost-cutting strategies are under consideration as ULM navigates financial challenges. The broader context includes budgetary constraints affecting multiple higher education institutions in the region.

Budget Shortfall at University of Louisiana Monroe Sparks Furlough Planning

In the heart of Monroe, the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) is taking significant steps to address a pending budget crisis. After announcing a troubling shortfall of an estimated $5 million to $6 million, ULM is gearing up to put forth a request for permission from the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors to implement staff furloughs. This decision aims to help balance the books before the fiscal year wraps up on June 30.

A Race Against Time

The UL Board can potentially approve this furlough plan as early as April 24, but the actual furloughs won’t take effect until early May at the earliest. Folks at ULM find themselves in a bit of a tight spot, as the late timing of these decisions means the university may need to pull off an aggressive schedule to hit those savings goals.

Leadership in Action

Taking charge during these challenging times is acting ULM President Nick Bruno, who has stepped into this role following the unexpected leave of the previous president, Ron Berry. Bruno, who has a long history with ULM, is not only looking to guide the school through this financial storm but is also expressing his commitment to minimizing the impact on university employees. In a show of solidarity, he’s gone as far as pledging to take a heavier furlough than most staff members.

Focus on Stability

Interestingly, even as furlough discussions heat up, layoffs for faculty and staff are currently off the table. Instead, the university is considering some restructuring, although specific details are still being closely guarded.

Changes on the Horizon

Bruno’s appointment as interim president coincided with the initiation of a hiring freeze on April 3. This means that any new hires will have to wait until the university is in a better financial spot, continuing the trend set by Governor Jeff Landry, who has announced a statewide hiring freeze affecting higher education institutions as well. This freeze includes a need to get permission from the Commissioner of Administration to fill any positions, including that of the ULM presidency.

Examining Cost-Saving Strategies

In addition to furloughs and hiring freezes, ULM is also looking at additional cost-cutting strategies. Some of these measures may include a temporary halt on travel and potentially shutting off air conditioning during the night. It’s all hands on deck as the university aims to navigate what has been a tumultuous financial period.

Beyond ULM: A Shared Struggle

ULM isn’t alone in facing budgetary constraints. The University of New Orleans (UNO) is also grappling with a more considerable financial hurdle. In fact, solutions are actively being sought in response to UNO’s dire situation, with proposals even suggesting moving it back into the LSU system for support. It’s a reminder that many higher educational institutions are feeling the pinch in a climate where budget cuts are becoming common.

Looking Ahead

While ULM is navigating through these financial challenges, Bruno insists that the university will not close out the fiscal year in the red. His commitment to steering ULM towards stability, without seeking additional financial assistance from the system office, is a clear demonstration of leadership during these unpredictable times. The coming weeks will be crucial as ULM works to implement these changes and secure its financial footing.

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University of Louisiana Monroe Faces Budget Shortfall