Dear Members of the Ohio University Community,
On Tuesday, Gov. Ted Strickland signed an interim state budget bill, providing additional time for Senate and House lawmakers to produce a final version for the next biennium.
Gov. Strickland and lawmakers are strong supporters of higher education and recognize its importance to ensuring the state's long-term economic health. But the fiscal challenges faced by Ohio are great. Some indicators out of Columbus lead us to believe that State Share of Instruction (SSI) appropriations could be reduced in Fiscal Year 2010 and Fiscal Year 2011.
Such a reduction would, of course, affect our fiscal 2010 budget, which was approved last week by the Ohio University Board of Trustees. But, it is important to note that we have done much good work to strengthen our ability to respond to such reductions, including the enrollment gains we have made through your commitment to student recruitment and retention. And, our shared focus on efficiency initiatives will further bolster the university's financial health
As we await more information from Columbus, I would like to reiterate that it is incumbent on all of us to continue to conserve resources and manage funds wisely. In short, we must slow our spending.
In fall 2008, Ohio University implemented a hiring freeze, which remains in effect. Requests for exceptions to the hiring freeze should be submitted to my office using the Essential Position Request form.
Nonessential travel also has been halted. While essential travel will still continue, it must be approved by the planning unit head. Examples of essential travel include grant-funded travel or conferences for which the Ohio University faculty or staff member is a presenter.
Through your great work and disciplined and thorough planning, Ohio University has been able to navigate these difficult economic times and increase funding for academic and strategic priorities outlined in the Vision OHIO plan.
I will continue to inform you of developments, including finalization of the state budget. Thank you for all that you continue to do for Ohio University and its students.
Cordially,
Roderick J. McDavis
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