Chancellor decisions posted for expedited program and administrative reviews

by Cathy Sandeen, UAA Chancellor  |   

Dear UAA Community,

Today is a day of challenges for UAA. In addition to beginning alternative course delivery through the end of the semester, it is also the day I announce my decisions on both administrative and program reductions for FY20-21. The total reduction assigned to UAA beginning July 1, 2020 is $11.8 million.

Despite much needed attention directed at the COVID-19 outbreak, the budget cut based on the compact remains a reality for the University of Alaska, and we have been asked to proceed as planned.

Collectively, the UAA community has spent hundreds of hours reviewing data, developing scenarios and identifying potential cuts. None of us wish to make these reductions, but we are called to do so given the budget situation the University of Alaska confronts. These decisions were made based upon our guiding principles for budget reductions developed in anticipation of a large cut to our state appropriation proposed by the governor.

There is no doubt UAA will contract and become smaller with a more focused mission across every one of our functions and all our campuses. I am confident this path forward will allow UAA to sustain excellence and the ability to continue to serve the region and the state of Alaska. UAA will remain Alaska’s vibrant open access urban/metropolitan university with equally vibrant community campuses.

Program reduction decisions will be posted on the Expedited Program Review Status website today, March 23, at 5 p.m. Program reductions account for 27.4% of the total reduction.

Administrative reductions are posted now on the Administrative Program Review website. Administrative reductions account for 72.6% of the total reductions.

Special notes on program reductions

My decisions on program reductions are not the last word. According to the established timeline, President Johnsen will develop his own recommendations and the UA Board of Regents will make final decisions this coming June.

I want to remind students potentially affected by program reductions that we will provide degree completion options. Please consult with an academic advisor for more information.

I want to remind faculty and staff potentially affected by program reductions to consult the union or UA Human Resources for more information about your situation.

Thank you for your understanding as we proceed with these necessary reductions.

Sincerely,
Cathy Sandeen
UAA Chancellor

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