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Dear valued Yellow Jacket supporter,
I would like to provide some information regarding several steps we are taking to ensure the financial health of the University long into the future. First and foremost, I want to assure you that BW’s primary commitment will always be to deliver a high-quality education and experience to our students.
Like many universities across our country, both large and small, BW must always work to maintain a balanced budget. During the last two years, we have operated with budget deficits, which we cannot continue to do. To address these operating deficits, we have, over the past few months, looked at every area of the University to ensure that we are operating as cost-effectively as possible. As a tuition- and donation-driven institution, it is imperative that we are operating efficiently so that every possible resource can be devoted directly to the student experience.
At their recent meeting, the BW Board of Trustees approved the Financial Plan for our University.This plan includes faculty and staff reduction in some areas and a limited reduction in the number of academic programs. This plan would not be complete without investment in new academic programs, co-curricular activities, facilities, and service improvements that make BW a great choice for a college education. Work has been underway this past semester to control expenses and focus on revenue driving initiatives. The work of a Special Committee of the Board of Trustees, a Transformation Work Group of campus leaders and President’s Cabinet have outlined additional steps that will continue to build on the progress already made. More information is available on the “Ensuring Financial Health for the Future of BW” web page.
Your ongoing financial support of BW has never been more important as we look to close funding gaps. I thank you for your understanding and commitment to BW as we all work to ensure the financial health of the University. And although we will change some of what we do, we will continue to provide the meaningful experience that prepares many people for a life well lived. Our University remains strong as BW continues to meet the needs of our students and our region in new and innovative ways today and in the future.
Bob Helmer
President
Baldwin Wallace University
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