Addressing the estimated $15 million the UW System has preserved through various cost-saving measures, UW System President Kevin Reilly held a press conference Wednesday to discuss the system's report to the Wisconsin Joint Legislative Committee.
Reilly, along with UW-Platteville Chancellor Dave Markee, highlighted various initiatives the UW System has undertaken in an effort to cut costs.
\I am pleased to report that the University of Wisconsin System has underway more than 250 efficiency measures and the reduction of more than 225 administrative positions,"" Reilly said.
With the money saved through these measures, Reilly said the UW System intends to re-invest in instruction and other high priorities.
According to the report, the UW System intends to eliminate positions in university relations, state relations and its entire market research unit.
In relation to UW colleges and the UW Extension, the report makes note of President Reilly's pending proposal to assign a single chancellor for the two systems and to consolidate administrative services.
Markee, discussing what his university has done to save money, noted UW-Platteville focused on efficiencies related to technology, mentioning the university's new online advising systems and library. Markee said these measures have allowed UW-Platteville to reduce the money it spends on personnel, eliminating the assistant chancellor and director of libraries positions.
Reilly noted the staff cuts have caused complications, including reduced academic and career counseling services and slower responses to student registration, records and financial aid requests.
Still, Reilly was quick to note that he had his ""eyes on the prize"" of more baccalaureate degree holders in Wisconsin and said these efficiency measures will further this end.
""At the start of my presidency six months ago, I pledged that we would continue to work on the University of Wisconsin System's record of excellence,"" he said. ""I committed this university to improving efficiency, maintaining quality and opening lines of communication.""
Reilly did not specify which UW-Madison jobs would be cut, but mentioned the desire to eliminate administrative positions and apportion their respective duties to other people.
Reilly continued to emphasize the importance of maintaining student access in making these cuts.
""Our ongoing efficiency plans are part of everything we need to do to serve students and citizens,"" Reilly said. ""It's important to note that we have achieved these efficiencies while increasing access for Wisconsin students.""
