POTSDAM, New York (WWNY) – SUNY Potsdam’s theater and dance program may be targeted for cuts. 7 News has learned 5 faculty have been sent an email from the SUNY provost’s office recommending “non-renewals” of their positions starting in the fall of 2024.
Professor Emeritus of the program, Donald Borsh, learned of the pending cuts through former co-workers and admits he’s not surprised. He says the college hasn’t been replacing staff in the department when someone leaves.
“This is largely being done through attrition. We’ve had two retirements in the last couple of years of long-term faculty, myself and another person included, and someone else is retiring at the end of this year and there have been no plans in place to replace any of us,” he said.
Jay Pecora, chair of the Department of Theater and Dance issued this statement:
“While the recommended non-renewals of faculty and staff are deeply troubling, my colleagues and I continue to prioritize students and their success.”
SUNY Potsdam, like other colleges, is facing financial challenges due to a drop in enrollment.
A decade ago, the campus had 4,500 students. It’s closer to 2,500 today.
New Potsdam President Suzanne Smith was unable to confirm the cuts on Monday when asked about it.
“We’re working on a timeline now. There is a plan in the works and we’re not ready to release details on that yet,” she said.
According to Pecora, if the theater and dance program loses the 5 faculty members, it would be left with 4 full-time members of the department.
Copyright 2023 WWNY. All rights reserved.
