President Greenwood responds to university budget questions and concerns

Posted: Sep 30, 2009

HONOLULU – In an open letter to University of Hawai‘i faculty and staff, UH President M.R.C. Greenwood reiterated the significant fiscal challenges the 10-campus system is facing in light of the state’s declining economy and budget restrictions imposed by Governor Linda Lingle, and informed faculty and staff that difficult decisions will have to be made to get the university through these circumstances.

 

“Our budget cuts amount to $76 million and $78 million in fiscal year 2010 and fiscal year 2011, respectively,” Greenwood explained. “The stimulus funds designated for the university have not yet been released. While we expect to receive them and are planning accordingly, they are not yet available to help address our budget reductions. If we do not receive stimulus funds, we will face budget cuts of $98 million and $100 million.”

 

“At the same time, the University of Hawai‘i System is facing a record increase in enrollment levels. More than 58,000 credit students are enrolled at our 10 campuses statewide,” Greenwood said. “While this is a welcome development with respect to acknowledging that the University of Hawai‘i is an important source of educational advancement for students and is highly appreciated by others, it does present significant logistical and resource issues.”

 

Greenwood emphasized that the university is doing everything it can to meet the increase in demand for higher education while ensuring that students receive the quality education they deserve and the support they need to succeed.

 

A series of frequently asked questions and answers has been provided to faculty and staff to inform and educate them about the university’s plans and efforts to address the restrictions imposed on the university. The questions and answers also address some aspects of the administration’s current proposal to the University of Hawai‘i Professional Assembly.

 

Greenwood’s complete message to faculty and staff and the answers to frequently asked questions are available online.