Dear President Pribbenow and Augsburg University Board of Regents,

At the All Hands meeting on Thursday, January 27, a projected $5 million budget shortfall for fiscal year 2023 was announced. All aspects of the University’s operation will be affected and every department has been tasked with finding ways to make cuts, squeeze more out of existing resources, all while centering the well-being of Augsburg’s students.

Augsburg educates students to be informed citizens, thoughtful stewards, critical thinkers, and responsible leaders. Much of the Augsburg community, especially students and staff, are being left out of the conversation. Cuts without transparency and collaboration don't reflect Augsburg values.

We, concerned staff, faculty, students, and community members, want to be partners in this process, as we have seen firsthand how past cuts have adversely impacted Augsburg students. As members of the Augsburg community, we are focused on the need for transparency, accountability, and collaboration.

Sharing information about Augsburg University's financial situation is crucial to building a relationship that meets our institution's values. Members of our community want information and frank discussion from the administration. What's shared by the administration during contract negotiations or in working group discussions is not enough, as it fails to paint the accurate picture necessary to understand the situation we're in. We want transparency, accountability, and collaboration before any decisions are made that affect our ability to serve our students.