TO: The University Community
Louisiana’s Division of Administration has now instructed higher education to prepare two financial plans or scenarios, that if implemented, would result in a substantial reduction in state appropriation for the 2009-2010 fiscal year ahead. For the University of Louisiana System (ULS), the lowest proposed reduction is $64,590,813 and the highest is $116,426,425. In turn, Nicholls State University is facing a lower cut of $4,773,579 or 15.8 percent and a maximum reduction of $8,604,487 or 28.5 percent.
Clearly, a budget cut of either magnitude would be incredibly damaging to the university, its students, faculty, staff, and service area.
Between now and the Monday, January 26th submission deadline, steps will be taken to complete the necessary planning effort to prepare both planning exercises. In doing so, we will consider potential program reductions while seeking to protect the academic core. At the same time, we will consider every possible source of additional revenue, before any reduction is actually implemented for FY 2009-2010.
As we move to complete this budget planning document, we will keep the university community informed while also seeking the advice of campus leadership at all levels.