Further cuts to UNC Charlotte will have severe consequences

The Charlotte Observer
Ruth Shaw, Chair of the UNC-Charlotte Board of Trustees
Op-Ed Page
Thursday, May 13, 2010

In this current academic year, and with proposed university system reductions for next year, the consequences of further reductions are severe. UNC Charlotte has managed by essentially absorbing 2,700 students with no additional faculty or staff; we have not filled more than 150 positions intended to support our growth. All of the funding for these positions has evaporated....  We know UNC Charlotte is a formidable driver for economic growth in our region. Our enrollment will likely top 25,000 this fall, and we are playing a vital part in retooling for new industries and positions to replace those our region has lost. But make no mistake: Our growth and our ability to respond will slow to a halt unless the governor and General Assembly preserve our enviable public university system.  Click here to read more.