TOLEDO ­- As the state’s biennial budget awaits Ohio Gov. Ted Strickland’s signature, University of
Toledo leaders are vowing to make a fall semester tuition increase a last resort as they work to balance
the institution’s budget.
As was announced in Columbus late last week, if Strickland signs the current budget, as is expected,
higher education funding will be reduced and the state’s prior tuition freeze will be replaced by a 3.5
percent tuition cap.
"For the fall semester, increasing tuition will be the last item on the list we choose as we work to
balance the budget," said UT President Lloyd Jacobs.
Jacobs said they would evaluate the university’s finances throughout the rest of the year before making
any decisions regarding spring semester.
With the state’s current funding level, the academic enterprise of the institution is looking at an
estimated budget shortfall of $7.5 million, according to Dr. Scott Scarborough, senior vice president
for finance and administration.
He estimated a $1 million shortfall for the hospital. The budget amendment process will be an abbreviated
version of this year’s original budget process, Scarborough said.
Jacobs said the next few weeks could bring more pain.
"As an institution we have been through a great deal of hardship in the last few months, and it is
only fair that I say frankly that additional hardship may be on the way," he said.
"The financial burden on our students and their families is already too high. While it will not be
easy, we must remain committed to students’ success, to do more with less, and to focus on the
priorities of the university."