Boston University lays off 120 employees, cuts 120 vacant positions amid major US higher ed budget shortfall
Boston University (BU) has confirmed the layoff of 120 employees and the elimination of 120 vacant positions as part of a significant cost-reduction effort. The move is aimed at addressing a 5% reduction in the university’s operating budget, according to university officials, as reported by CBS News.The layoffs are part of a broader financial strategy to navigate ongoing economic pressures that have impacted institutions of higher education across the US. The university has not yet provided details on which departments will be affected or whether the layoffs involve faculty, administrative, or support staff, CBS News reported.Financial constraints and ongoing projectsBU’s decision comes amid large-scale capital investments and increasing financial challenges in the US higher education sector. Major ongoing projects at the university include a $550 million renovation of the Warren Towers dormitory and a $118 million construction of a new facility for the Pardee School of Global Studies.Despite efforts to generate additional income, such as over-enrolling the class of 2025 by approximately 800 students, BU continues to face financial strain. The university has not announced any changes to tuition rates, although international students currently pay close to $90,000 annually, CBS News reported.University leadership addresses the decisionBU President Melissa Gilliam described the layoffs as “a day of loss” in a statement shared with the university community. “There is no way around this,” Gilliam said. “We know our community may need time to adjust to these difficult changes. Yet, it is also a necessary step in ensuring our future,” as quoted by CBS News.President Gilliam added that efforts would continue in the coming months to reshape and reimagine the university “in its most efficient and vital form.”Student and faculty reactionThe cuts have prompted concern among students, particularly those from international backgrounds. Devanj Vajpayee, a rising senior at BU, expressed frustration over ongoing reductions, stating, “It doesn’t seem like there’s enough professors as it is… There’s been a lot of cuts everywhere with research, with dorms,” as reported by CBS News.Context within the national education landscapeAccording to Don Seiffert of the Boston Business Journal, BU’s decision reflects broader financial pressures facing colleges and universities across the country. CBS News also noted that BU has participated in legal action against the Trump administration, particularly lawsuits aimed at reversing federal funding cuts for research, including one targeting the Department of Defense.TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here.
