Faculty members and students sent the regents a letter Thursday expressing a lack of confidence in Chancellor Bernie Patterson’s administration.
The letter comes after the administration announced in March they wanted to eliminate 13 programs to help cope with a $4.5 million deficit. The administration scaled that back to six majors this month.
The letter argues Patterson’s staff expanded enrollment and over-hired instead of planning for a leaner future. The letter also notes a student dean who handled sexual misconduct complaints resigned after he was accused of sexual harassment.
Patterson said in a statement that his administration is leading the school through “necessary change.”
UW System spokeswoman Heather LaRoi pointed to system President Ray Cross’ statement earlier this month supporting the majors cut.
