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Appalachian may cut 180 classes, 30 faculty positions next year in response to state budget cuts
With the North Carolina General Assembly set to develop their 2010-11 budget proposal in less than a week, Appalachian State University officials are anticipating a reduction of around $7 million (5.9 percent), according to a message from Appalachian Chancellor Kenneth E. Peacock sent today.
The anticipated cut, proposed by Governor Beverly Perdue April 20, could force Appalachian to cut around 180 classes, 4,500 seats in classes and 30 faculty positions next year.
If state legislators propose the cut, Appalachian officials also expect to make reductions in academic areas such as library resources—an area that Peacock thinks could negatively affect retention and graduation rates.
Peacock said he urges students, faculty and staff to contact their state legislators before the entire general assembly convenes May 12.
“For those of you in North Carolina, I urge you to join me in contacting these [state] representatives,” the message said. “Share with them the Appalachian story and the detrimental effect additional budget cuts will have on the mission of Appalachian, as well as the entire UNC System, and the preservation of our academic core.”
Because mostly administrative positions were targeted when Appalachian was forced to cut more than $15 million in 2009-10, the “academic core” will “likely” be affected in cuts made for the coming year.
Peacock also noted in his message that while the UNC-system only accounts for 13 percent of General Fund appropriations, it contributed 29 percent of budget reversions imposed across state government.
For the most up-to-date budget information and contacts for local state legislators, visit chancellor.appstate.edu/nc-budget.
Story: NASH DUNN, News Editor |
