Continuing Challenges in the New Year
As we usher in a new year and prepare to begin a new semester, this is a good opportunity to provide an update about recent actions that have been taken in response to the current economic crisis, and to again provide reassurance that the University will continue to respond and manage these issues responsibly and meaningfully. Our goal always is to protect the University’s academic mission, and its ability to provide programs and services in support of students and the University’s long-term goals.
As many of you know, even the holiday break did not provide a respite from the economic realities currently battering the state and, by extension, the California State University system and Cal State Northridge. During the holiday, the State’s severe cash flow crisis resulted in the Department of Finance ordering a halt in payment for construction costs causing all state agencies including the CSU, to suspend work on most state-bond funded construction projects. Because of this action, as stated in my January 2 announcement, work has been temporarily stopped on the Valley Performing Arts Center. (We hope to continue at least some work on Chapparal Hall since it is so close to completion. The G3 parking structure and student housing projects under construction are not funded by state capital outlay bonds and will continue construction.)
Similarly, back in November, in follow up to the CSU Board of Trustees’ decision to declare systemwide impaction due to the state’s deepening financial crisis, Cal State Northridge declared freshman impaction. This action will allow us to manage our enrollment within current budget constraints while preserving academic quality and services for students. To fulfill this goal, Cal State Northridge will provide priority freshman admission to students we have classified as “Tier 1” who graduate from our defined primary local service area and meet CSU admission requirements. “Tier 2” freshman applicants, defined as those from outside the local area, will be rank-ordered and admitted after Tier 1 students according to merit eligibility. (More information about the impaction and its effect on admission can be found here.)
All this underscores what we already know: that the state’s current budget situation is very dire, resulting in serious cash flow problems. I have been very grateful for everyone’s commitment and hard work during these uncertain times. While the news continues to be sobering, I know that all of you continue to do outstanding work on behalf of the University and remain confident of Cal State Northridge’s ability to weather these rough waters. My promise to you as President is to meet your dedication and trust with my best efforts, and to keep you apprised of the situation as it evolves. It is a great credit to all of you and our campus that, even in these difficult times, the University continues to excel, thrive and flourish.
A belated happy new year to all of you. Let us continue to move forward into 2009 with optimism and the knowledge that the difficulties that lie ahead are as much opportunities as they are challenges.