Over 70 Jobs and 10 Programs Cut as Southern Oregon University Moves to Stabilize Budget

ASHLAND, Ore. — The board of trustees of Southern Oregon University (SOU) voted to implement significant budget cuts to reduce spending that will affect 10 programs and over 70 faculty and staff members.

7 to 2 votes saw the fiscal budget plan aimed at reducing spending by at least $10 million pass in an effort to address SOU’s ongoing financial challenges. Introduced in August as “Toward a (More) Resilient SOU,” the plan focuses on enrollment, student success, competitive compensation, and financial reserves.

The budget cuts will eliminate 10 major or minor programs, including majors such as Math, Chemistry, and Women and Gender Studies.

The cuts will take effect immediately, with $5 million in reductions required in the current school year.

President Rick Bailey says he is hopeful that this will help the institution grow in the future.