Louisiana Tech’s faculty senate president says there’s a level of distrust after the University of Louisiana System Board of Supervisors rejected cost-of-living raises for faculty and staff. Michael Swanbom says the distrust stems from conflicting messages from now-former Tech President Jim Henderson and system leaders.
“Express a level of discouragement and a little bit of disappointment with regard to how the process has gone forward,” Swanbom said.
Yesterday was Henderson’s last day as president. Earlier this month, he apologized to faculty for failing to deliver the raises as promised. Board Chair Mark Romero and System President Rick Gallot later questioned Henderson’s handling of the university’s finances.
Board Supervisor Steve Davison says he plans to push for restoring the raises, which were included in the original budget.
“I’m going to ask, and I’m going to continue to advocate for these cost-of-living adjustments for the faculty and staff at my alma mater,” Davison said.
Davison also raised concerns about what he described as inequitable funding for Louisiana Tech compared with the system’s other seven universities.
Romero says he understands the need to increase faculty salaries, but the university must manage its finances responsibly.
“I can assure you that Louisiana Tech is a priority for this board, as all of you will agree with; that said, being a priority means we need to make sure that we act responsibly,” Romero said.
In a letter to faculty, Romero and Gallot said Louisiana Tech has limited liquidity, raising concerns about its ability to meet its financial obligations.
The UL System has named Dr. Dickie Crawford as Acting President. The former Bulldog basketball player currently serves as Louisiana Tech’s Senior Vice President for Student advancement and Chief Operating Officer.
Comments