News Summary
The University of New Orleans is facing a $10 million budget shortfall, resulting in proposed cuts that have caused concern among faculty and staff. Tensions arise between the administration and faculty members questioning the involvement of a non-academic CFO in financial decisions. The long-lasting impact of reduced enrollment and past funding cuts has exacerbated the situation, leading to drastic measures such as layoffs and a push for better governance.
Frustration Mounts at the University of New Orleans Amid $10 Million Budget Woes
The University of New Orleans (UNO) community is buzzing with concern and dismay as the school grapples with a staggering $10 million budget shortfall. This financial crisis has led the administration to propose some serious cuts that are leaving many faculty and staff feeling uneasy. Instead of working hand-in-hand, it seems the administration and faculty are pulling in opposite directions—particularly when it comes to the role of the university’s Chief Financial Officer, Edwin Litolff.
A Workplace of Unease
Believed to be out of touch with academic needs, Litolff, who was brought on by President Kathy Johnson last fall and previously worked at Grambling State University, is feeling the heat from faculty members. The decision to put financial decisions in the hands of a non-academic CFO is raising eyebrows among educators who feel their voices should play a central role in budget matters. Faculty members gathered at a recent meeting, venting their frustrations and even cheering when critiques of the CFO were voiced. It’s clear that there’s a growing sense of mistrust and dissatisfaction.
Historical Context of Budget Strain
The current financial dilemmas at UNO didn’t happen overnight. Following the catastrophic events of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the university saw a significant drop in enrollment—from around 17,000 students to approximately 6,000. Fast forward to the fall 2024 semester, and enrollment has only slightly improved to 6,488 students. Additionally, budgetary concerns intensified during Gov. Bobby Jindal’s administration from 2008 to 2016, when cuts to state higher education funding were widespread. Yet critics point out that UNO has been slow in adjusting its expenses to correspond with declining student enrollment.
Severe Measures and their Implications
As the administration grapples with this financial quagmire, they have resorted to drastic actions, including consolidating colleges, furloughing most employees, and outright layoffs. While faculty members remain protected from furloughs for now, the reality is that even tenured professors could face termination if financial circumstances worsen.
Grounds for Frustration
Calls for Change in Governance
The discussions at the Faculty Senate recently rekindled calls for improved governance and shared decision-making when it comes to budgeting. There have been rumblings, even whispers of potential rebellion among faculty members, which may indicate that frustrations are reaching a boiling point.
Impact on Athletics and Future Funding
Another important aspect of these budget cuts is the noticeable impact on university athletics. Many are calling for further reductions across both academic and athletic departments. Meanwhile, President Johnson is actively seeking additional grant funding and is contemplating hiring a lobbyist to explore new funding opportunities for UNO. Despite the cloud of uncertainty, faculty members have recognized Johnson’s push to steer through this financial storm, albeit with an eye on more substantial accountability and transparency regarding budget management.
Conclusion: A Community in Flux
The atmosphere at UNO is certainly tense as the budget crisis unfolds. Faculty and staff alike are navigating through uncharted waters, seeking transparency and accountability from the administration while hoping for a brighter fiscal future. With voices of frustration echoing through the hallways and meetings, it’s clear that some fundamental changes may be necessary to ensure the university not only survives but thrives.
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Additional Resources
- NOLA: UNO Lays Off 30 Employees
- La Illuminator: UNO Budget Cuts
- Fox 8 Live: UNO Budget Cuts Amid Low Enrollment
- Higher Ed Dive: UNO Furloughs and Layoffs
- Axios: New Orleans 2025 Budget
- Wikipedia: University of New Orleans
