USC, SDSU Hiring Freezes Amid Funding Threats

The University of Southern California (USC) and San Diego State University (SDSU) have both announced hiring freezes and other austerity measures in response to federal and state funding uncertainties. USC's decision is influenced by threats from the Trump administration to cut federal funding due to non-compliance with certain directives and ongoing investigations into allegations of antisemitism on campus. Meanwhile, SDSU is reacting to potential state budget cuts following Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed fiscal year 2025-26 budget, which delays promised funding increases and suggests significant cuts to the California State University system. Both universities aim to mitigate financial deficits and ensure long-term stability while minimizing the impact on their academic missions. These measures include restricting discretionary spending, reassessing capital projects, and utilizing one-time revenue streams to avoid widespread layoffs.