Ithaca College has a history of staff and program cuts that have created a feeling of unrest both in the student body and staff. The return of Huron Consulting Group on campus is not an immediate cause for concern from an academic standpoint, as it may lead to the strengthening of the institution as a whole. But for employees of the college, patterns of academic prioritization due to COVID-19 have raised warning signs.
Expectations of enrollment stabilization have not proven fruitful, as Fall 2024 enrollment did not surpass 1,400 students. The college also has an increased financial deficit, and its partnership with the consulting group is one aspect of its attempts to fix the problem.
If the college wishes to expand its enrollment threshold, it needs to also prioritize clear communication with faculty, staff and students. Although we do not yet know the extent of the recommendations that Huron Consulting Group will provide and do not wish to cause unnecessary concern, it is important to also validate the fears of staff and faculty in regard to potential cuts.
This is not an Ithaca College specific problem. Nationally, fewer 18-year-olds enrolled in higher education during the Fall 2024 semester, which is due to a variety of factors: struggles with the FAFSA application, a rise in vocational learning and a more immediate move to the workforce. As more higher education institutions of similar profiles to the college report continued changes, the sector as a whole must rethink its ideas surrounding their academic programs. Steps taken to ensure the strength of the institution must both take the national and local landscape into account without instilling false hope about enrollment prospects.
The way to enroll more students is to strengthen the offerings of the college. While the prospect of ancillary cuts is anxiety inducing, the campus community must also be allowed to weigh in on potential changes to the institution. At this moment, members of the college community have not had an opportunity to vocalize those fears or suggest solutions. This may come further down the line in the college’s relationship with the consulting group. The purpose of the campus community is to be cognizant of these potential changes and prepare appropriately. While we may not be able to stop cuts to programming, we can adjust accordingly.