Today, Tulane University released what many of us knew was coming, but had no idea how deep the cuts would run.
The two schools most drastically impact were the Medical School and the Engineering School. It was probably apparent that cuts would be made, but many feel that the programs cut should not have been. It could even be asked if it was necessary to cut any academic program. If it is true that Tulane has 85% of its pre-Katrina students returning that would put the school back to an enrollment of 2001. Most likely the enrollment will recover in time, or would have had those programs been maintained.
The Board also cut several sports both men's and women's programs were cut. I understand these cuts much more than the academic cuts. I am glad that some of the major sports were maintained: baseball and football in particular. I think it is a shame that we are losing women's tennis. They have had incredible records recently and all of our athletes have been great ambassadors for the school, especially this year as they have continued to compete and represent us in a very visible way.
Another cut made by the school impacts the history and culture of the university. Tulane will eliminate the Newcomb and Tulane Colleges. These colleges have been the beginning points for women and men respectively as they have entered the university. No more will we see the proud women of Newcomb with their daisyed caps and the distinguished men of Tulane standing proud at the unified ceremonies. While this is mostly an administrative move on paper, the cultural impact will be felt back through many generations of Tulane alumnae and alumni.
I have posted links to the sites supporting and fighting the survival of these schools and programs. Please visit them and show your support. Also, write to Dr. Cowen to show that these cuts impact the university as a whole. It may be too late or it may not be. If we don’t let our voices be heard we will never know.
I would like to say also that this is not to say anything negatively about the Tulane Board, Dr Cowen or the administration. I am certain from conversations I have had with various people at the university that these decisions did not come easily. These are both terrible and great times we live.
Take care and happy holidays,
Kevin