Dear Colleagues:

These are certainly tumultuous times for the world economy; and the state of Florida and the University of West Florida are not an exception. We, like everyone, are being hit hard by budget reductions and have already taken nearly $9 million in cuts over the past two years. Yet, the situation continues to decline.

The legislative session began March 3 and the legislative budget committees are currently considering models of 10% and 15% budget reductions to higher education for the 2009/2010 fiscal year. Additionally, the revenue estimation models released on Friday, March 13, reported an additional $1.1 (4.9%) billion decline since November, for the current 2008/2009 budget year.

This is an ever-evolving landscape that will continue to change as we progress. However, in preparation, the vice presidents and I have been discussing the best strategies to deal with these reductions. We are modeling 7% and 12% reduction plans.  

Please remember that at this point these are only planning exercises. We remain optimistic about possible revenue sources, such as federal stimulus dollars. Also, the Governor’s budget proposed no cuts to higher education, indicating an understanding of the important role we play in the Florida economy. Yet, we must be prepared and so in the meantime, I am reaching out to ask for your help and cooperation as we plan for these possibilities.

The vice presidents and I are unanimous that the reductions will not be across the board this year as it has been in the past. We will give priority to direct instruction, support for direct instruction, student services and critical support services; however, the E&G budget for every unit will be reduced. We are all in this together and must remain focused on our priorities. Thus, we will use our newly completed strategic plan to guide our decision-making.

In an effort to keep everyone informed, we have launched 2009-2010 Budget Information Web site. The site includes information on the status of the process and up-to-date budget legislative information.

As we go through this process I urge each and every one of you to please stay calm and to remain focused on our primary mission of educating students. We remain optimistic but must prepare for all scenarios. I ask for your help, support and collegiality as we go forward.

Sincerely,

Judy Bense
President
University of West Florida