WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., May 29, 2020 — As it responds to the need for increased efficiency and the unexpected expenses of COVID-19, West Liberty University is making tough decisions for fall.
“We will align our staff with our budget in a fiscally-sound manner. Most of this will be through attrition. Over the past few years, we have added new faculty and staff in areas of growth but we must remain responsive to budget indicators and the growing effects of COVID-19,” explained President Stephen Greiner.
“Unfortunately, budget reductions are inevitable and employees who are retiring or leaving for other reasons may not be replaced. We have no plans to eliminate any academic programs.”
“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,” said Rich Lucas, who serves as Chairman of the Board of Governors.
“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,” Lucas added.
“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.
Personnel decisions are confidential and are carried out in a professional manner by the Department of Human Resources.
Like all colleges and universities across the state, WLU closed its campus and began to deliver its education via streaming and online programs in late March after Gov. Jim Justice issued his stay-at-home order. It plans to welcome students back to the on-campus experience in August as it complies to CDC and state health officials suggestions.
West Liberty University begins a new fiscal year on July 1.