University of Minnesota faculty and alumni decry administrative bloat despite proposed budget cuts

The University of Minnesota's Board of Regents will vote on a budget that proposes a 7% cut to academic programs and a 6. 5% tuition increase for in-state undergraduates. This marks the largest tuition hike in 14 years for the Twin Cities campus, prompting significant opposition from faculty and students. Critics argue that the university's administrative costs remain excessive, especially as President Dr. Rebecca Cunningham announced plans to cut 300 jobs across campuses.

The budget includes $60 million for strategic investments, which detractors see as evidence of administrative bloat. A university spokesperson defended these investments as necessary for a new strategic plan and adapting to shifts in research funding. The university has faced flat state funding and declining federal support, leading to a need for budget cuts. Despite the financial challenges, the proposed budget includes a 4% salary increase for faculty, although not all will receive it. Concerns persist regarding the prioritization of administrative expenses over academic needs.