COLUMBIA -- University of Missouri President Gary Forsee says possible budget cuts would have a dramatic impact on the University System and the entire State of Missouri.
Forsee held a news conference in response to his report that he released yesterday that shows various budget cut scenarios for all four University of Missouri campuses.
Forsee put together a report showing different budget cut scenarios in response to a request by the Missouri Department of Higher Education. Missouri lawmakers are expecting a $340 million shortfall in next year’s state budget. The University of Missouri System could see state budget cuts ranging from $65-105 million.
The Mizzou campus could see state cuts ranging from $20-60 million. According to Forsee’s report, a 15 to 25 percent cut in state funding could result in the reduction of 800 to 1400 faculty and staff positions.
“There is clear recognition by our general assembly and by the incoming governor and by Gov. Blunt, that higher education has to be viewed as part of the solution," said Forsee. "We’re going to continue to be the loudest advocates for that. How many trips that means to Jefferson City remains to be seen.”
Forsee’s report breaks down the impact of possible budget cuts of 15 to 25 percent into various categories. Projections show a 10 to 17 percent cut in salaries.
“We may do less of some things and probably will do in this kind of a budget situation," said MU Chancellor Brady Deaton. "Less of some things that we were doing in the last few years, but we will still be doing those things that actually critical to the future of the university and this state.”
Forsee’s report says one possible scenario could be job cuts for the University of Missouri Health Care System. Forsee says university officials won’t make any final decisions until Missouri lawmakers approve their state budget.
Forsee says his budget cut scenario report contains a lot of speculation. Forsee says, one thing he knows for sure is that his university has the leadership to get through these tough economic times.
Missouri Department of Higher Education officials plan to give Forsee’s budget cut scenario report to Missouri lawmakers on Monday.
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