TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — About 200 Ivy Tech employees will lose their jobs after the Indiana Legislature cut $54 million from the budget and refused to allow the college to raise tuition rates, college officials said Friday.
“As you are aware, all state higher education institutions received a 5% cut in state funding. In addition, the State Budget Agency may withhold another 5% of our allocated funds. For Ivy Tech, this totals more than $54 million dollars over a two-year period,” Ivy Tech Community College President Sue Ellspermann wrote in an email to college employees obtained by WTWO. “At the same time, the Governor and Indiana Commission for Higher Education have recommended a 0% tuition increase for all state educational institutions.”
About 202 people will be laid off statewide, and eight individuals will be let go in the Terre Haute area, college officials added.
“Beginning today, Systems Office and campuses will notify some of our colleagues of a Reduction in Force (RIF). While most notifications will happen today, a few more will occur next week. At this time, we do not anticipate further RIFs,” Ellspermann wrote. “Staffing reductions are always difficult decisions that we do not make lightly. Every individual impacted has made meaningful contributions to our students, our campuses, and our mission. These changes do not reflect the value of their work, but rather the harsh financial reality we currently face. We are truly grateful for their dedication and service to Ivy Tech.”
She added that the employees who are laid off will receive a separation package.
“This is a challenging moment for our College, but I know Ivy Tech is strong. I remain confident in our resilience and in our commitment to our students and to one another,” Ellspermann wrote. “Together, we will navigate this period with compassion, integrity, and a continued focus on our educational mission.”
