Amidst the challenging landscape of higher education, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee is facing the potential layoff of over 30 tenured faculty members. This drastic measure comes as a result of a recommendation from UWM Chancellor Mark Mone to close a general studies college that was established to support two-year degrees at satellite campuses. The proposed closure of this college has sparked debate and concern within the university community and beyond.
The College of General Studies, which was created to cater to the academic needs of students at UWM’s Waukesha and Washington County campuses following their merger with the main campus in 2018, is now on the chopping block. With the imminent closure of the Washington County campus and the declining enrollment at the Waukesha campus, Chancellor Mone believes that maintaining the college and its associated operations is no longer feasible or necessary.
One of the primary reasons cited for the proposed closure is the significant decline in student enrollment at the College of General Studies over the past decade. From 2010 to 2023, there has been a staggering 65% decrease in the number of students enrolled in the college, while the staff levels and institutional subsidization have remained relatively constant. This mismatch between dwindling student numbers and the sustained staffing levels has led to significant financial strain on the university.
Despite the faculty senate’s opposition to the plan, Chancellor Mone remains steadfast in his recommendation to close the College of General Studies. The senate raised concerns about alternative solutions that were not explored, such as relocating the general studies faculty to the main campus. However, Mone asserts that the rationale behind the closure proposal outweighs these concerns, especially in light of the declining student demand for liberal arts associate degrees and the university’s budget constraints.
In addition to the financial implications of maintaining the College of General Studies, Chancellor Mone highlighted the disparity in costs associated with educating students in the college compared to other degree programs at UWM. While the expenses remain similar across various programs, the tuition for general studies degrees is significantly lower, creating a financial burden that the university cannot sustain in the long term.
The proposed closure of the College of General Studies is part of a broader restructuring effort at UWM in response to declining enrollment and budget cuts. The university’s overall student population has decreased by 9.3% since 2017, reflecting national trends of declining high school graduates in Wisconsin. As UWM grapples with these challenges, difficult decisions regarding faculty layoffs and program closures are being made to ensure the long-term sustainability of the institution.
Impact on Faculty and Students
The potential layoff of over 30 tenured faculty members at UWM has sent shockwaves through the university community. These faculty members, who have dedicated years of service to the institution, now face uncertain futures as their positions hang in the balance. The looming layoffs have raised concerns about the impact on academic programs, student support services, and overall faculty morale.
For the affected faculty members, the prospect of losing their jobs is not only a personal setback but also a blow to the academic community at UWM. Tenured faculty play a crucial role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the university, conducting research, mentoring students, and contributing to the overall academic excellence of the institution. The loss of these experienced and dedicated faculty members would undoubtedly have a ripple effect across departments and programs at UWM.
Students, too, are bracing for the potential consequences of the faculty layoffs. Tenured faculty often serve as mentors, advisors, and role models for students, providing valuable guidance and support throughout their academic journey. The reduction in faculty numbers could lead to larger class sizes, fewer course offerings, and diminished academic resources, ultimately affecting the quality of education and student experience at UWM.
As the university grapples with the impending layoffs, efforts are being made to mitigate the impact on both faculty and students. Counseling services, career development programs, and financial assistance are being offered to faculty members facing job loss, while academic advisors and student support staff are stepping up to provide guidance and assistance to students affected by the changes. Despite these efforts, the uncertainty surrounding the layoffs continues to cast a shadow over the UWM community.
Challenges and Opportunities
The closure of the College of General Studies and the potential layoffs of tenured faculty at UWM underscore the challenges facing higher education institutions in an increasingly competitive and volatile environment. Declining enrollment, budget constraints, and shifting academic priorities have forced universities to make tough decisions about program offerings, staffing levels, and resource allocation.
However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities for innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning. The restructuring efforts at UWM present an opportunity to reevaluate academic programs, streamline operations, and reallocate resources to areas of critical need. By focusing on academic excellence, student success, and institutional sustainability, UWM can position itself for long-term growth and success in a rapidly evolving higher education landscape.
Collaboration with faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners is key to navigating these challenges and seizing the opportunities for positive change. Engaging stakeholders in dialogue, soliciting feedback, and fostering a culture of transparency and inclusivity will be crucial in shaping the future direction of UWM. By working together towards a shared vision of academic excellence and student success, the university can overcome the current challenges and emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.
Looking Ahead
As UWM prepares to implement the proposed closure of the College of General Studies and navigate the potential layoffs of over 30 tenured faculty members, the university community must come together to support one another, adapt to the changes, and chart a path forward towards a sustainable and successful future. While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges and uncertainties, it also presents an opportunity for growth, innovation, and transformation.
By leveraging the collective expertise, creativity, and resilience of its faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders, UWM can weather the current storm and emerge stronger on the other side. The university’s commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement will guide its decision-making processes and shape its strategic priorities in the years to come.
As UWM navigates the complexities of higher education in the 21st century, it must remain true to its core values, mission, and vision, while also embracing change, adaptability, and innovation. By staying true to its academic roots, fostering a spirit of collaboration and inclusivity, and embracing a culture of continuous improvement and excellence, UWM can overcome the current challenges and position itself as a leader in higher education for generations to come.
