TO: Campus Community
FR: Emily F. Cutrer, Interim President
I’m writing to ensure that you’re aware of two important developments in our continuing budget discussions and process -- the governor’s announcement of budget revisions and the University Budget Advisory Committee’s recommendations.
First, you have most likely heard that yesterday, Governor Newsom issued his revised budget proposal for next fiscal year. Amidst the dire news about the California economy was some positive news for the California universities. The governor has significantly walked back the proposed budget reduction to the CSU from 7.95% to 3%. If approved as part of the final state budget in June, the change could mean a reduction in SSU’s deficit from the $23 million we prepared for to around $19 million.
The 2025-26 state budget discussion, however, is far from over. The fact remains that the state and all its agencies face continually rising costs, especially related to health, and a significant cut of 3% remains on the table. Thus, the CSU -- and SSU -- remain committed to eliminating all cuts to higher education in California, and advocacy for the CSU continues.
The potential for improvement in our fiscal situation makes the second development all the more significant. I am very pleased to let you know that after several months of deliberation, the University Budget Advisory Committee (UBAC) has forwarded to me its funding recommendations should the state’s final budget allow us to make some revisions to our own. I’m forwarding their recommendation in its entirety (PDF is attached) so that you may see not only the scope of their work, but also the range of proposals and the level of creativity and innovation that our community brought to this process.
The work that the proposers and the committee have done will be valuable as I make final decisions in the weeks to come. As I review the UBAC recommendations and the priority of reassigning tenured/tenure-track faculty, I will take into account our budget needs and institutional priorities. Thanks to the UBAC members, we will be ready to move quickly should we learn this summer that funding is available. We also have some clear direction of our campus community’s interests that alternate sources of funding -- such as grants, donors, and even minor budgetary reallocations -- may help us realize.
Although the academic year is drawing to a close and many in our community will be gone for the summer, I commit to keeping you informed as the budget picture develops. For now, my thanks to each of you for your contribution to SSU and its students. May we all share the joy of Commencement this weekend!
