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Judge Permits Sonoma State to Implement Academic and Athletic Cuts

Sonoma State University can temporarily proceed with eliminating programs and athletics to address a $24 million deficit, pending further legal challenges.

Marika Lyszczyk, a sophomore pitcher on the Sonoma State University baseball team, center, leads players in a cheer after practice in Rohnert Park in 2023. A court has ruled that the school can proceed with eliminating its Division II athletics program, as well as six academic departments. 
Marika Lyszczyk, a sophomore pitcher on the Sonoma State baseball team, stretches during practice in Rohnert Park in 2023. She is the first female baseball player at the school and California Collegiate Athletic Association.  A court has ruled that Sonoma State can proceed with eliminating its Division II athletics program, as well as six academic departments. 
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Overview

  • A Sonoma County Superior Court judge denied a preliminary injunction, allowing Sonoma State to move forward with planned cuts to over 20 degree programs, six departments, and all NCAA athletics teams.
  • The court ruled the January email announcing the cuts constituted a final decision and found no abuse of discretion in the university’s cost-saving measures.
  • The university projects $3.7 million in savings from eliminating athletics, though student attorneys argue this figure lacks sufficient evidence and overlooks potential revenue losses.
  • Students allege the university violated California State University governance protocols by failing to adequately consult the Academic Senate and other committees before finalizing the cuts.
  • The next court hearing is scheduled for July 11, as legal challenges to the cuts continue amidst concerns over their impact on students' academic and athletic opportunities.