The University of New Orleans and LSU sent out a joint message to the UNO community, including faculty, staff and students, Tuesday morning expressing confidence in the school’s impending transition back into the LSU system.
“Change — especially in higher education — can bring uncertainty. But we’re writing to say this clearly: UNO’s future is bright,” the statement read.
UNO previously was a part of the LSU system, but it was transferred to the University of Louisiana system in 2011. The university has had great financial struggles recently, with a reported budget shortfall of $30 million this year. Much of that stems from enrollment, which has dropped from over 17,000 before Hurricane Katrina to around 6,000 now.
The Louisiana House of Representatives approved moving UNO back to the LSU system in June after it had previously passed the state Senate. Gov. Jeff Landry signed the bill later that month.
“UNO’s fiscal position is one that no institution wants to face, and the issues that have led to its financial woes are ones all of our institutions grapple with,” said Louisiana Board of Regents Deputy Commissioner for Finance and Administration Elizabeth Bentley-Smith in March during a meeting in which the board recommended moving UNO back to the LSU system.
The hope is that LSU’s resources could help turn UNO’s fortunes around.
“This move brings real opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the city we call home. It gives UNO access to the broader resources and support of the LSU System, while preserving the unique mission and spirit that define this university,” the statement read. “New Orleans is a world-class city, and it deserves a strong, thriving public research university.”
According to the statement, LSU and UNO’s leadership teams had an introductory meeting recently. The statement also promised further details on the transition in the future.
The change in governance also needs approval by UNO’s accrediting body, the Southern Association for Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges. The legislation required UNO President Kathy Johnson to submit a request to SACSCOC by August 1.
