More budget cuts enforced

This spring semester, students were welcomed back with another announcement of budget cuts.

Last semester, Sonoma State issued a cap on the number of units students would be allowed to take in the spring.

However, with even more budget cuts than perceived, not only will there be cuts to classes but stricter rules on the unit cap, and cuts from programs outside of academics will be made.

The cuts that were put into effect Jan. 1 are totaling to about $750 million for the California State University system. SSU is facing cuts of about $11.5 million for just this academic year alone.

SSU had set aside money in case more budget cuts were to occur the school would be able to better handle the financial situation.

"We had savings when the trigger was pulled on Jan. 1. We used our savings to make up for the cuts that have been enforced," said President Ruben Armiñana.

As the president knows times may be rough for not just the SSU but also the CSU system overall, this semester student's tuition will not be raised.

Students care about the effects that budget cuts are having on the schools academic programs.

"I feel that the budget cuts in the state are very unfortunate, especially in how they affect the quality of education," said junior Madeline Friess.

"I know that the issue is really out of SSU's control, but it raises a lot of concerns for the students in regards to getting the classes they need and being able to graduate on time," she added.

And because of the savings that the school had set aside, no additional classes would be cut for the spring semester but sticking to the unit cap would be necessary. For the faculty and staff on campus, Armiñana does not foresee lots of layoffs, but allowing time to shrink the number of faculty and staff.

"I am not in favor of doing layoffs unless crucial. When someone leaves their position, it will not get replaced for the time being," said Armiñana.

As the CSU system as a whole continues to grow and budget cuts are increasing, as of right now financial aid will not be affected, according to Armiñana.

SSU has to make adjustments in several different areas and ways in order to work with the money the school does have.

"We will not buy what we don't necessarily need. We may delay repairs. We can only support what we have, but do not do much more," said Armiñana.

In regards to saving money, the school will do upkeep, but may not upgrade the utilities used on campus.

"I'm sure the administration wants the best for students here, but the government and budget cuts leave schools with very little resources and options," said Friess.

Students are not the only ones who show awareness on the toll budget cuts have now and may have in the future; teachers know that times may be rough.

"Guiding principles for budget cuts for future should be to preserve the academic experience," said Professor Michael Santos.

Santos believes that when making cuts, it is crucial to cut from the extracurricular activities before the academic programs.

He argues that, although it is tougher and more expensive to get through college, the end result is worth it for students.

"Students, even though tough with budget cuts, chances are better. College education will pay," said Santos.

Santos also stated that there has been enough budget cuts and hopefully there will be no longer be discussion of more.

The future of SSU's financial possibilities does not look good, especially with the growing numbers of students.

"There is so much you can take away, for fiscal year 2012-2013. It looks grim for state schools," said Armiñana.