Chicago State University
The Cordell Reed Student Union at Chicago State University.
The Cordell Reed Student Union at Chicago State University.
The Cordell Reed Student Union at Chicago State University.
The Cordell Reed Student Union at Chicago State University.
The Cordell Reed Student Union at Chicago State University.

Chicago State University sends layoff notices to all its employees

Feb. 26, 2016
Continuing state budget impasse could force campus to shut down.

Because of a state budget impasse that has left public universities in Illinois without adequate funding, Chicago State University says it is sending layoff notices to all faculty, staff and administrators.

In a news release, University President Thomas Calhoun says notifying employees of potential layoffs is necessary because the school has gone eight months without money from the state.

"It is our sincere hope that the governor and legislative leaders will do the right thing and provide funding for public universities before these layoffs would have to be executed,” says Calhoun.

Nearly 7,200 students are enrolled at Chicago State, which is situated on the city's South Side.

Legislators and Gov. Bruce Rauner have been unable to resolve policy differences and agree on a budget. Chicago State relies on state aid for about 30 percent of its operating budget. The university says it one of 12 public higher-education institutions in Illinois that have gone eight months without state support.

Earlier this week, Chicago State canceled its spring break, scheduled in March, so that the spring semester could conclude before all funds were depleted and the campus would have to close.

Because of the lengthy gap in state funding, Chicago State already has reduced expenditures and relied on reserve funds to keep the campus operating. With no resolution of the impasse in sight, officials say more drastic actions such as layoffs may be needed.

“While the actions we must take today will certainly cause concern, I want to ensure our campus community that we are taking these steps to guarantee that we will be open for summer classes and we are actively recruiting and preparing for the Fall 2016 semester,” Board Chairman Anthony Young says.

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