MTSU officials should be praised for being proactive in addressing looming and scary state budget cuts in higher education.
Last week Gov. Phil Bredesen announced money from the federal economic stimulus package will greatly reduce the extent of cuts higher education in Tennessee will face for the immediate future although warning at the same time that reduced funding levels would be facing state colleges and institutions in the future.
Bredesen said the federal assistance will allow the state higher education system to avoid “draconian” cuts for the immediate future but with the state facing a $1 billion shortfall this year and uncertainties with the economy cuts would be coming at some time.
Facing likely $20 million budget reduction as part of an overall $144 million cut in state higher ed funding, MTSU didn't wait to be told what to do, but launched a comprehensive, inclusive study of how to accomplish that unfortunate but potentially necessary goal.
The resulting proposal could have resulted in the loss of 44 majors and four full departments at the university, prompting an energetic and emotional response from students, faculty and others.
While their concerns are certainly understandable and legitimate, it should be noted the proposed budget cuts were in fact just that proposals
President Sidney McPhee and his staff would undoubtedly review the proposals with the overall mission of the university in mind.
And, ultimately, the Tennessee Board of Regents and the Tennessee Higher Education Commission would have had to sign off on any of the cuts that fell into the "draconian" level.
By initiating a comprehensive study, identifying possible savings and revenue enhancements, setting the agenda for public discussion and setting some priorities, MTSU has positioned itself to be well prepared to address whatever measures the future requires.
As a TBR official noted, McPhee and the university have got out in front on a difficult issue.
That effort will serve the university and this community well at time and developments come in the months ahead. |
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