APPENDIX B:

Principles Governing Budget Reductions

SEPTEMBER 4, 2002

University of Nebraska-Lincoln


Principles Governing Base-Budget Reductions - Round 3


  1. Budget reductions will be consistent with the role and mission of the University, the strategic plan for the University as a whole and strategic plans of the various units within the University. In this context and until the budget situation improves, the focus should be on preserving strength, advancing the priorities of the University, and preserving the most vital missions of the University. The ultimate objective is to preserve the strongest and most competitive University current circumstances permit.
  2. Budget reductions will be determined in accordance with established procedures which include the bylaws of the Board of Regents, the bylaws of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, the "Procedures to be Invoked for Significant Budget Reallocations and Reductions" dated 2/20/93, and Chapter 100 of the Business Policies and Procedures Manual. Any reductions in faculty must be sensitive to AAUP recommendations.
  3. The highest priority will be accorded to the ability of the University to recruit and retain students. The future of the State of Nebraska depends on our retaining Nebraska students in the state and attracting new students to the state. Therefore, we must:

  a. Maintain the University's national reputation for innovative undergraduate programs,
  b. Within the need to focus resources in order to maintain strong programs, preserve an appropriate array of academic programs that will attract students with varying interests, and
  c. Protect, to the greatest extent possible, the ability of students to graduate in a timely fashion.
  4. The second priority will be to maintain a robust research and scholarly enterprise. Essential support to funded research programs and research support units will be maintained at a level that does not unduly jeopardize the continuation or growth of external funding.
  5. The third priority will be those service functions that contribute to economic development throughout the State of Nebraska. Other service programs will be evaluated on a case by case basis.
  6. There is a high degree of mutual interdependence among University programs, regardless of the source of funding. Although reductions will be in state appropriations, auxiliary enterprises funded from other sources may be asked to contribute.
  7. Prior commitments will be subject to reassessment within the context of the current budget situation.
  8. Administrative consolidation and streamlined business processes will be high priorities where cost savings can be achieved.
  9. Reductions in academic and support units that have the effect of shifting costs to other units will be avoided except in unusual circumstances.
  10. Funds allocated to non-personnel expenditures, such as building repair, equipment, classroom improvements and library acquisitions will be scrutinized to determine where deferrals can occur consistent with our stewardship responsibilities.
  11. Where possible, reductions will be taken first in academic and support activities that are more easily reinstituted if budget resources are restored.
  12. Layoffs/furloughs will only be implemented to the degree necessary and in accordance with University policies and procedures.
  13. Private funds designated to UNL by the University of Nebraska Foundation may only be used in accordance with the fund agreement.



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