WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. — As the COVID-19 pandemic has wreaked havoc on the budgets of higher education institutions across the country, West Liberty University announced Wednesday it’s ‘rightsizing’ operations.
The institution in Ohio County said in a release to MetroNews that difficult decisions, including personnel decisions, are in response to the need for increased efficiency and the unexpected expenses of COVID-19.
“Over the past few years, we have added new faculty and staff in areas of growth. We must now remain responsive to budget indicators and the growing effects of COVID-19,” West Liberty University (WLU) President Stephen Greiner said.
Rich Lucas, who serves as chairman of the WLU Board of Governors said, “The Board of Governors has asked that the university continue to act in a fiscally responsive manner and plan for the 2021 fiscal year in light of the pandemic.”
“None of us know for certain the final impact of the dollars lost due to the unprecedented challenge of COVID-19, and because enrollment numbers play a part in all decisions made by the university and the board, we must make hard decisions.”
According to WLU officials, attrition will play a part in the budget decisions and employees who are retiring at the end of June or leaving positions for any reason this spring may not be replaced.
West Liberty received $2,246,633 in federal relief due to the coronavirus with $1,123,332 for students.
“West Liberty University remains healthy and will continue to do so as we make adjustments and close out the current year. It is an unprecedented era in higher education, but we remain committed to delivering the high-quality education that is our mission. Our students can rest assured that their education and success is our focus,” Greiner said.
No other information about personnel cuts, including what departments and positions, was given to MetroNews.
It appears beloved assistant professor of Journalism and Communications Tammie Beagle was among those terminated. A petition surfacing online to bring Beagle back had around 200 signatures as of Wednesday evening.
The university said personnel decisions are confidential and are carried out in a professional manner by the Department of Human Resources.
West Liberty University begins a new fiscal year on July 1.