Just as the state of Vermont is dealing with a budget crisis, the state’s largest University is also staring into the abyss of a serious budget deficit.
The University of Vermont’s Board of Trustees is set to meet and get an update on what to do about a $28 million budget shortfall.
But faculty and students are worried the gap will be filled with department cuts and layoffs of staff.
Yesterday a group of faculty and students held a press conference to float alternatives to cuts. Freshman Peter Helm says what he values most is small class sizes and close relationships with his professors:
(Helm) If these budget cuts and faculty and staff layoffs are approved, it would radically change what my experience at UVM is all about. And I would not honestly be able to tell prospective students that they cannot expect the same kind of experience that I’ve had at UVM.
(Host) Earlier this week University President Dan Fogel announced a working group to consider restructuring the undergraduate programs into a single college.
We spoke with Fogel about what might happen, and he says the key is to focus on long-term goals.
Click listen to hear the entire interview.