Even with an increase in tuition, the University will still face a $5, 272, 819 reduction in state support and self-generated revenue for the upcoming year, along with reductions in faculty and staff effective August 1.
    In an email to faculty and staff on July 10, President Hulbert said the University has made every effort to reduce non-personnel expenses and cut vacant positions in order to avoid the elimination of filled positions. Only vacancies absolutely necessary to core services will be filled and operating budget allocations will be mandated for only critical travel, supply, equipment and other expenditures. Also, funding to offset operational expenses will be transferred from auxiliary enterprises to operations as allowed by the state and there will be no merit increases for employees. However, the reductions must be made, in addition to these efforts, in order to keep the University operating effectively.
    “To be very honest, there is little good news these days from Baton Rouge, with no one in leadership roles speaking out on behalf of higher education, its colleges and universities or the students each serves,” Hulbert said in the email. “However, as I have so often said, down here in the bayou region, we survive and, on occasion, even flourish in spite of Baton Rouge.”