Sonoma State University Eliminates Athletics Amid $24 Million Budget Deficit
The university announces sweeping cuts, including the closure of its NCAA Division II athletic program and multiple academic departments, in response to declining enrollment and financial strain.
- Sonoma State University will permanently end its NCAA Division II athletics program after the 2025 spring season, affecting 11 sports teams and 243 student-athletes.
- The university faces a $23.9 million budget deficit, driven by a 38% decline in enrollment since 2015 and rising operational costs.
- In addition to cutting athletics, Sonoma State will eliminate over 20 academic programs, six departments, and lay off at least 60 faculty and staff members, including tenured professors.
- University leadership cited the need to ensure long-term financial stability and adapt to changes in higher education as reasons for the drastic measures.
- Experts warn that similar financial challenges could threaten other smaller colleges and universities, particularly those with limited revenue from sports or declining enrollment.
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