College system dilemma

Since the COVID-19 pandemic hit Vermont, we’ve seen multiple important issues come to the fore all at once. And it gets daunting quickly.
This past week was a unique one, starting with the controversy over the future of three Vermont state college campuses, and wrapping up with an influx of self-employed Vermonters filing into a new system for unemployment benefits. The governor also loosened some restrictions on construction and manufacturing operations, continuing to gradually allow people back to work, with an abundance of caution.
But among these various situations, the biggest roller coaster ride was the Vermont State Colleges plan. Eight days ago, Chancellor Jeb Spaulding announced a proposal to close the Northern Vermont University campuses in Lyndon and Johnson and also Vermont Technical College’s Randolph campus. He cited a skyrocketing deficit due to COVID-19’s impact, coupled with dismal enrollment projections for next year — on top of an already bleak financial picture for the state colleges. The changes were urgently needed to save the entire system, he explained.
However, after a mighty backlash of criticism from students, faculty, staff and the three towns, as well as lawmakers and the governor, a board of trustees vote on the closures was delayed, and the plan was withdrawn on Wednesday.
Understandably, many people are still shaken by that ordeal, after almost seeing their lives upended with only a few days’ notice — and amid so much uncertainty already. A great deal of fear remains in those three communities and around the state about whether some of those closures may still occur. With the state college system facing a nearly $10 million deficit for this year, state college officials say a plan is needed soon. One of the ideas offered by legislative leaders is a one-year bridge budget, which would allow more time to craft a firm plan for the future of the Vermont State Colleges system. Perhaps that can allow a sensible path forward for all involved.
Clearly, the financial issues facing the system are not unique - they are forcing tough decisions at every institution of higher education. And it is obvious that hard decisions are coming for the Vermont State Colleges. However, with all stakeholders working together, hopefully an innovative plan can be crafted that not only sustains the overall system, but takes into account how vital the college campuses are to the economies of Lyndon, Johnson and Randolph. If there ever was a time for innovation and creativity, the time is now. The future of higher education in Vermont depends on it.

— Gareth Henderson