Milwaukee, WI – Alverno College’s Board of Trustees has taken decisive action amidst financial turmoil, voting to declare a financial exigency and implementing significant academic restructuring. This includes reducing both undergraduate and graduate programs along with faculty and staff positions, aimed at securing the college’s financial stability.

Board’s Proactive Measures

The Board of Trustees at Alverno College recently voted to declare a financial exigency, a move designed to preemptively tackle the institution’s financial challenges. This decision underscores their commitment to preserving Alverno’s educational mission while ensuring long-term sustainability.

Program and Staff Reductions

In response to financial pressures, Alverno College will consolidate its academic offerings. The number of undergraduate majors will decrease from 43 to 29, and graduate programs will be reduced from 25 to 19. This restructuring aims to align programs with student demand and community needs, ensuring efficiency and relevance.

Impact on Faculty and Staff

To streamline operations, Alverno will reduce its workforce by eliminating 25 full-time faculty positions and 12 full-time staff positions. Additionally, departments will be restructured and combined to optimize resources and operational effectiveness.

Athletic Program Discontinuation

As part of the cost-saving measures, Alverno College will discontinue its track and field program. This decision reflects the college’s strategic focus on prioritizing core educational initiatives amid financial constraints.

Commitment to Educational Excellence

Despite these challenges, Alverno College remains dedicated to providing a transformative educational experience. All current undergraduate students will be supported in completing their studies, while efforts are underway to assist affected graduate students through partnerships with other academic institutions.

Leadership’s Vision for the Future

Christy Brown, JD, president of Alverno College, emphasized the necessity of these difficult decisions to ensure the institution’s survival and maintain accreditation. Moving forward, Alverno plans to invest in areas of growth and educational innovation, enhancing operational systems while preserving its commitment to academic integrity.

Conclusion: Securing Alverno’s Future

Alverno College’s proactive steps to address financial challenges underscore its commitment to educational excellence amidst adversity. By prioritizing financial stability and operational efficiency, Alverno aims to safeguard its mission and continue serving as a cornerstone of higher education in Milwaukee.

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