Since January, Academic Affairs has been working with deans, faculty, staff and academic leaders to identify ways to streamline operations and organizational structures in response to the university’s budget reductions.
As we move into the next phase, we will continue to focus on preserving academic programs and faculty while identifying organizational structures that allow us to operate effectively within available resources. Student success and the quality and integrity of our academic mission continue to guide this work.
We know faculty and staff have questions about the process, what has happened and what comes next. To provide a central source of information, we have created a new Academic Affairs Departmental Reorganization SharePoint site that outlines why this work is necessary, the process and timeline, and what to expect as planning continues.
Visit the Academic Affairs Departmental Reorganization SharePoint site.
The review process draws on the framework provided by university Policy 2.10, feedback from Faculty and Staff Senates, and guidance from university leadership regarding the questions, considerations and input needed to evaluate potential organizational changes. We want to be transparent, even when the conversations may be difficult. At the same time, we recognize the effect this process can have on our faculty and staff. We are committed to approaching each step with respect, communicating as openly as we can and providing clarity along the way. How we do this work matters just as much as the work itself.
No final decisions about departmental organizational structures have been made, and the next phase will include continued consultation with academic leaders, faculty and staff.
From October through December, the university will move through a formal feedback and approval process, providing additional opportunities for input before making final decisions.
Dr. Monica Lounsbery
Senior executive vice president and provost
