University of Oregon Lays Off 176 Staff to Address $25-30M Deficit

The University of Oregon is implementing significant layoffs and budget cuts to address a projected $25 to $30 million deficit for fiscal year 2026, with a total of 117 filled positions and 59 vacant positions eliminated so far this year, amounting to 176 positions overall. The layoffs affect various roles including staff, administrators, and career faculty, but no tenured or tenure-track faculty positions have been cut, nor have any degree programs been eliminated. University leaders cited rising costs, declining out-of-state enrollment, and federal policy uncertainties as key factors contributing to the financial shortfall. The university aims to save $29.2 million through these measures, with $24.9 million coming from personnel costs and the rest from non-personnel expenses, while consulting extensively with deans and faculty governance bodies to minimize academic impact. Despite concerns from faculty and criticism from the American Association of University Professors about faculty involvement in the decisions, the administration emphasizes prioritizing the academic mission and student success. University officials acknowledge ongoing financial challenges in higher education and stress the need for continued vigilance in managing budgetary gaps.