Dear Colleagues,
As we wrap up another academic year and begin planning for the next, we face multiple sources of uncertainty, including a state budget process that is still underway and federal actions related to research funding, international visas and financial aid services. These many unknowns bring an additional layer of stress to us all. I believe that amid uncertainty, we must control what we can. We can continue to support our students and further our research as you all are doing each day. Every institution of higher education is facing difficult decisions and must do so in the context of their own unique circumstances. We will continue to take action to meet UWM’s needs and mission.
Therefore, we are taking steps now to address possible reductions in the next fiscal year and beyond. These actions will position UWM to not only better face immediate challenges but also to emerge as a stronger institution prepared to address additional uncertainties in the future.
To support our short- and long-term financial success, and after consulting with deans and the Academic Programming and Budget Committee, we will implement two actions for the fiscal year 2026.
First, we will impose an additional base expense reduction that will vary by school, college and division. For unrestricted expenses other than auxiliaries, the aggregate reduction is about 4% across all divisions. Imposing the additional base cut now will give divisions as much time as possible to plan. Additional guidance and budget reduction templates will be released by Business and Financial Services to divisional leadership on April 29.
Second, we have decided to shorten the time frame to phase out subvention of schools and colleges under the budget model from five years to three. Provost Andrew Daire has been working with schools and colleges on tools and actions for them to be financially sustainable on their own for the long-term.
The spending freezes implemented earlier this year will continue until expressly discontinued and at least through the end of fiscal year 2025.
While UWM is not pursuing a centrally mandated employee reduction plan, we do anticipate that these budget actions may require some non-renewals and layoffs across UWM, as determined by campus units as they consider long-term needs. Furloughs are not being considered at this time.
Budget cuts are never easy, and they require difficult decisions. With our university at a crucial moment with many unknowns, we must plan now for a thriving and impactful UWM of tomorrow.
We continue to work toward our 2030 commitments of advancing student success, supporting employee belonging and well-being, advancing research and community impact, and fiscal sustainability. Our focus remains on our 2030 core pillars and our guiding values, ensuring that we’re engaging our governance groups and keeping our community informed.
I know this comes as our budgets are already constrained, with little to no fat left to cut. In the face of these and other challenges, your dedication and persistence are what will keep this university strong far into the future.
Thank you for your commitment to our students, each other and UWM’s fiscal health.
Best regards,
Mark A. Mone, PhD
Chancellor