University News

September 16, 2017 | President Susan Herbst

Budget Passed by State Legislature Potentially Devastating to UConn

President Herbst outlines the likely impact the approved budget would have on the University.

The UConn wordmark, in white on a navy background.

To the University Community and all the members of UConn Nation:

Last night and early this morning both houses of the General Assembly approved a state budget that is appalling to us at UConn. The approved budget would cut state funding for the university by more than $300 million over the next two years. That level of cut is unprecedented and would be devastating for UConn, higher education in Connecticut, and the state as a whole.

This would simply decimate the university.

Here is a partial list of what the budget approved by the General Assembly would mean for UConn and Connecticut:

  • The closure of regional campuses and multiple academic departments and potentially even schools and colleges;
  • The closure of UConn Health, or large parts of it;
  • Elimination of scores of majors and graduate programs;
  • Dramatically larger classes and waitlists that will make it challenging for many students to graduate in four years;
  • Major reductions to need- and merit-based financial aid for students across the board;
  • Devastating cuts to scientific and medical research programs;
  • Reduction of UConn police and fire services as well as the elimination of most student health and mental health services, and other student support programs;
  • Elimination of many Division 1 Athletics programs;
  • Elimination of international programs;
  • Dramatic reductions to fundraising efforts and philanthropic giving.

It is difficult to describe how destructive the approved budget would be to UConn and higher education in Connecticut. We thank the governor for his promised veto of this measure, and we thank all those who believe in higher education for Connecticut and its residents.

Going forward, we are hopeful that the legislature and governor can agree on a far-sighted budget that protects investments in UConn, our students, and the state’s future.

Sincerely,
Susan Herbst
University President

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President Herbst: What We Can Do About Our Budget 

#SaveUConn: It’s About the Students

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