Syracuse University avoids mass layoffs despite budget cuts

Syracuse University will not implement mass layoffs or hiring freezes despite major federal spending cuts, according to Chancellor Kent Syverud. He assured the University Senate that SU is managing its budget responsibly and will not follow the trend of other colleges making deep cuts. Syverud made these comments after President Trump signed an executive order affecting the Department of Education. This order could impact student aid, loans, and grants, but Trump stated that essential functions will continue. Several universities have already faced layoffs and budget cuts, including Johns Hopkins University, which announced over 2,000 job losses after losing significant federal funding. Syracuse University began tightening its budget last summer in anticipation of potential federal aid losses. Syverud noted that they have been looking for efficiencies and realigning resources. While some changes may occur, they will follow the university's regular adjustments rather than drastic measures. He mentioned that Syracuse is not currently under investigation by the Department of Education regarding issues of antisemitism or racism, unlike other nearby institutions. Syverud expects more universities to announce layoffs and budget cuts in the coming weeks due to ongoing federal changes. Overall, Syracuse is taking a different approach than many of its peers, who are often responding to challenges in a similar manner.