UMD budget update (6/26/25)

 

Dear Colleagues, Over the last couple of weeks you have received communications from University of Minnesota leadership about our budget for the upcoming fiscal year. These messages and the approved budget represent a new strategy to navigate the financial challenges facing the university. This balanced budget addresses the constrained state funding, cuts to federal investments, and rising inflation. The budget includes solutions to meet the challenges of our current financial reality and to ensure the long-term well-being of UMD.   UMD FY26 Budget Under the approved University of Minnesota budget, UMD’s budget for FY26 is $301.1 million for all non-sponsored programs and operations, which is 4% higher than FY25. Net tuition revenue and state-appropriated operations and maintenance (O&M) funding represent about 58% of non-sponsored resources. Those critical resources remain relatively flat.  Navigating the profound challenges facing higher education will require difficult choices as well as investment in the people and programs that enable UMD to fulfill its mission. In particular, the U of M budget calls for a 7% reduction in O&M expenses over FY26 and FY27. That budget also invests in our outstanding faculty and staff, student success priorities, buildings and infrastructure, and research. Scope reductions will be uncomfortable and will affect every campus, college, and unit across the University. These changes will enable us to focus our resources on the programs and investments that are most essential to our identity and most impactful for those we serve. In partnership with UMD leaders, I will continue over the next several months to fine-tune our strategy and reduce our budget to meet the challenges of our current times.  Fall 2025 Tuition UMD’s resident and Midwest tuition rates will increase by 4% beginning fall 2025. With the increase, resident tuition will be nearly 12% lower than it was in 2014 after adjusting for inflation. That tuition adjustment helps sustain the experiential learning and research experiences that prepare our students for successful careers and lives. The value of a UMD education remains strong, and I am pleased that we were able to keep our change in tuition lower than the increases experienced at many other universities. We remain firmly committed to accessibility and affordability through the University, state, and federal financial aid programs. Additionally, University and donor-supported scholarships continue to make education accessible and affordable, so that our students graduate with an average loan debt far below the national average. Financial Path Forward I am grateful to the deans, research directors, and all unit leaders for their creativity and engagement in the UMD budget call process earlier this spring. We also appreciate the insights and guidance of shared governance leaders, department heads, the academic revisioning committee, and many others in campus conversations throughout this last year. There is no shortage of passion for this campus and for our students.   I ask for your continued participation and support as we navigate these financial challenges together. Working in partnership, I am confident that we will remain a strong institution for many years to come.  Thank you,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Announcing our new executive vice chancellor and provost (June 6, 2025)

 

Dear UMD community, I am excited to announce Rebecca Ropers as our new executive vice chancellor and provost. She has been serving in the interim role since July 1, 2024, and I am grateful for her leadership this past year and excited about the future. Dr. Ropers has been a scholar and educational leader for nearly three decades, first at Louisiana State University and for the last 18 years at the University of Minnesota. Beginning with her PhD at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she has prioritized faculty development and organizational change to facilitate inclusive and engaged communities. She has held many leadership roles, including department chair, chair of the faculty governance executive body, and vice provost for faculty and academic affairs. Before joining UMD, she served as the senior advisor for academic leadership and conflict resolution on the Twin Cities campus. As EVC/Provost, Dr. Ropers serves as the chief academic officer for the campus and senior advisor to the chancellor. Provost Ropers will provide visionary leadership for academic programs and processes while collaboratively fostering a culture of connection, excellence, and innovation. Dr. Ropers has proven to be a thoughtful leader with tremendous dedication to our UMD community. I’m thrilled that she will continue to share her talents, insights, and curiosity with us into the future. Please join me in congratulating Rebecca on this important appointment, which will officially begin soon, upon approval by the Board of Regents. I also want to express my gratitude to the search advisory committee for their work in this process. The search was chaired by Matt Massman. Other committee members included Kim Dauner, Abel Knochel, Ryan Goei, Catherine O’Reilly, Brianne Vigen, and Aidan Zeissler. The search was supported by Jean Neibauer. Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Envisioning UMD’s Mission and Values

 

Dear Colleagues, We write to follow up on the experience of nearly 200 faculty and staff who shared their views during our May 12th forum on Our Mission, Our Values, Our Community. Our time together was filled with honest reflection, powerful storytelling, and thoughtful connection. We are grateful for the insights, deep engagement, and generosity of spirit of those who attended. We’re excited to share two pieces that capture the heart of what emerged at the May gathering: The summary report by Jen Mein describes what we heard throughout our time together, including key themes, quotes, and collective hopes for UMD’s future. The graphic recording by Viola Clark brings our conversations to life in visual form in a way that is full of truth, clarity, and inspiration. This forum was part of a larger effort to align our mission and expressed values with who we are and where we’re headed. What was shared will shape how we plan our future and live into our purpose with clarity and care. Whether or not you attended, please know that we are in the process of co-creating UMD's future. You will receive invitations to join our strategic planning efforts, which will begin in earnest in the fall. We’re grateful for your voice, your vision, and how you show up for our campus community. Please reach out if you have thoughts, questions, or reflections you’d like to share moving forward. With deep appreciation, Charles Nies, Chancellor Rebecca Ropers, Interim Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Announcing our new vice chancellor for student life

 

Dear UMD community, I am excited to announce that Kay Robinson will be joining us as our new vice chancellor for student life (VCSL). Dr. Robinson has over two decades of experience in student affairs, directly working with or overseeing student involvement and culture, leadership, and campus programs. Robinson comes to UMD from the University of Central Oklahoma, where she had served for 17 years, most recently in the role of assistant vice president of student affairs. Previously, Robinson served as assistant director of the Ohio Union at The Ohio State University. A lifelong learner, she holds a doctorate in higher education leadership from Maryville University - St. Louis, a master’s degree in college student personnel from Bowling Green State University, and a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. The VCSL is a key member of the university’s senior leadership team and is responsible for shaping a holistic student experience by creating and implementing strategic initiatives, building key partnerships, and leading an experienced team to advance student success and belonging. Dr. Robinson’s strategic visioning, relational leadership, and emphasis on supporting transformative student experiences will be a great asset here at UMD. Her strengths lie in building, cultivating, and maintaining positive relationships. Please join me in welcoming Kay to campus. Her first day will be July 7. I want to express my gratitude to Jeremy Leiferman, who stepped into the interim vice chancellor for student life position upon Dr. Lisa Erwin’s retirement last summer. Jeremy is a strong leader with a sincere passion for our students. He did an incredible job in the interim role and will continue to be a great asset to our leadership team here at UMD. Jeremy will resume the associate vice chancellor for student life role once Kay begins. Thank you, Jeremy. I also want to express my gratitude to the search advisory committee and our search partner Isaacson, Miller for their work in this successful process. The search was co-chaired by Trevor Eagle and Remi Foust. Other committee members included Jonathan Lee, Kaylyn Madison, Lesa Radtke, and Ella Swarbrick. The search was supported by Jean Neibauer. Have a good day,

Charles Nies Chancellor

End of semester greetings

UMD students, faculty, and staff, Congratulations on a successful semester and the conclusion of finals week! I can't believe how quickly this year has gone. I wanted to share this brief video message with you to help commemorate the end of this semester and the academic year. Thanks again for a great year. I’ve learned so much in my first year here as chancellor, and I trust that each of you has expanded your knowledge as well. To our graduates, congratulations! We are so proud of you, your determination, and your hard work. Thank you for all you’ve done to contribute to UMD and our campus community. Please stay engaged with us and know that you’re always welcome back to campus. We look forward to seeing where this next chapter in your journey takes you! It’s my hope that you enjoy a restful and restorative summer. Best,

Charles Nies Chancellor

You’re Invited, May 12: Our Mission, Our Values, Our Community

 

Dear Colleagues, Now is a time to ensure UMD’s values and identity reflect who we truly are. Let’s build clarity and community—together. We invite all UMD faculty and staff to join us for a half-day retreat to shape UMD’s next chapter:   Our Mission, Our Values, Our Community May 12, 9 am to 2 pm (coffee served at 8:30; lunch included) Kirby Ballroom Please RSVP here and add to your calendar   This isn’t just another meeting. It’s a space to think big, listen deeply, and contribute to the evolving story of UMD. Expect engaging discussions, thought-provoking questions, and space to reflect and connect with colleagues about what makes our campus distinctive. We’re partnering with a seasoned facilitator and a graphic storyteller to help us harvest the insights and ideas shared to inform future planning and engagement with our broader campus community.  When grounded in purpose and a clear sense of who we are, we’re better equipped to set bold priorities, make thoughtful decisions, and stay true to UMD’s identity. A shared foundation will empower us to move forward with confidence and imagination—ready to shape what comes next, together. As we prepare to gather on May 12, we want to acknowledge the moment we’re in. News of federal funding cuts, rising costs, and shifting expectations for higher education are creating real disruptions, stress, and grief. We recognize the toll this may be taking on your mind, body, and spirit. Our intention is to offer a space that is energizing and grounded in care, a space where you are welcomed just as you are. If joining doesn’t feel right for you, that’s OK. We will share the outcomes of the day afterward and invite future participation. Sincerely, Charles Nies, Chancellor Rebecca Ropers, Interim Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs

Update on budget and system conversations

 

Dear Colleagues,   I feel the excitement of the campus community as we move to the end of the academic year and celebrate the many accomplishments of our students, faculty, and staff. It is difficult to believe that I am nearing the end of my first year, as I am still learning daily about the remarkable efforts of UMD.    In my April 10 email update, I mentioned that we would present our academic/fiscal year 2026 (FY26) campus budget request to U of M System leadership in mid-April. I am writing with an update on that conversation.  First, I want to thank leadership from across campus who participated in our new budget call process earlier this semester. This process and these discussions allowed for intentional thinking around both reallocations and areas of opportunity. It was very helpful to hear and learn from colleagues, and we used that context to inform our presentation.  Last Friday, UMD leaders made a wonderful presentation to our U of M System leadership colleagues. In that presentation, we highlighted our accomplishments, strengths, and the essential role we play in fulfilling the university’s statewide mission. We advocated for increased resources to enhance student success, fund faculty and staff compensation, and maintain our facilities. We also discussed the ongoing legislative budget process that will determine state funding for the U of M for the next two years. Given the current budget proposals at the legislature, we are expecting no additional resources for the U of M.  While it may be several months before we have certainty on our budget allocations and related budget decisions, the conversation underscored that difficult budget decisions lie ahead for UMD, the U of M System, and higher education in general. We will continue to engage with partners locally and across the system to do all we can to enable and amplify UMD’s success. As we near the end of the academic year, I thank you for your dedication, passion for UMD and student success, and for going above and beyond. I anticipate with excitement how great it will feel to see each of our graduates cross the stage at commencement and leverage their talents and skills to positively impact the larger world. Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Executive search updates

 

Dear colleagues, I am excited to share that we have launched the search for the executive vice chancellor of academic affairs (EVCAA). This important UMD leadership position serves as the chief academic officer and provides visionary leadership to advance the university's mission of excellence in education, research and creativity, and public/community engagement. The EVCAA is responsible for the overall academic integrity of the institution and plays a key role in strategic planning, policy development, and resource allocation. Vice Chancellor of Finance and Operations Matt Massman, has agreed to serve as chair of the search advisory committee. Joining Matt will be Faculty Senate co-chairs, Professor Kim Dauner and Professor Abel Knochel, Large Lakes Observatory Director, Catherine O’Reilly, and Director of University Honors Professor Ryan Goei. We are still working with the Staff Senate on a staff representative. Please share this posting with leaders who may be interested and who you think would be a good fit. Our goal is to have candidates on campus the first week of May. At that time, there will be opportunities for broader campus engagement.  Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Updates from campus conversation

 

Dear Colleagues, Thanks to those of you who joined our campus conversation on Monday. It was good to be together, even if some of what we discussed was challenging. This message summarizes the information that was shared and provides additional resources and next steps. At the meeting, we described how our institutional values are guiding decisions related both to resource allocation and to the creation of a shared and distinctive identity. Budget: Campus leadership will present our academic/fiscal year 2026 (FY26) campus budget request to U of M System leadership in the second half of April. At that time, we will ask them to partner with us by investing in our student success efforts, our research enterprise, and our faculty and staff through a funded compensation plan. Each year, we balance our budget. However, we continue to use one-time carryforward funding to cover expenses that outpace revenues. We expect costs to increase again next fiscal year. As part of the U of M System’s annual budget process, all units were asked to create scenarios related to budget reallocations. UMD is planning for a 2.2% ($3.7 million) reallocation starting July 1, 2025. We also completed an exercise to identify potential changes in the form of a 7% budget reallocation. Our internal conversations and those with U of M System leadership will inform budget decisions, including potential areas of investment and reallocation, which will likely happen this summer. Registration for fall 2025 courses started before decisions on budget, staffing, and related university operations were finalized. Given this timing, some course offerings were adjusted to provide flexibility as we finalize plans in the next few months. When program offerings change, we are committed to working with current students to complete their degrees within a reasonable timeframe.  We want these decisions to be informed by our values and the collective wisdom of this campus. Many of you have been part of the budget process this year. Deans worked within their college to set a list of priorities for funding decisions. The  Academic Revisioning Committee (ARC) is providing recommendations related to academic programs. The budget, the efforts of ARC, and our strategic planning discussions are intended to work in concert with each other. For additional information about our budget process and specifics, you can refer to this budget FAQ document. Identity and Programming: Our program offerings will change over time to meet the needs of our students, the community, and our disciplines. UMD’s programs in 1970 were very different from what they are now. Our offerings in 25 years will be different than they are today. We are making decisions that will help us be sustainable and dynamic. In this process, we need to think creatively about what we do and how we do it. We must also think about partnerships across campus, the university system, and the region to ensure that the work we do is both effective and efficient in helping us achieve our goals. Aligning our work to our identity, mission, and values is critical as we address these challenges and make these important decisions. In discussions throughout campus, four core identities have begun to emerge: Environment and Sustainability Health and Wellbeing Community and Economic Development Cultural and Global Engagement The UMD community has built a strong foundation upon which we can build into the future. Collectively, we can find solutions to these challenges while we continue to celebrate our remarkable education, research, creativity, and scholarship. Our research is meaningful to our region and beyond. Our outreach programs inspire future scholars and leaders. Our students are thriving and have a transformational experience here at UMD. While we have difficult decisions to make, we will continue to foster, create, and invest in our continued success. We will be having more conversations throughout the spring and into the fall, and we hope you’ll be able to join us in this work as we co-create our future. Thank you for your attention and engagement in these important topics. Sincerely, Charles Nies, Chancellor Rebecca Ropers, Interim Executive Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Matt Massman, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Operations

Campus conversation 4/7, Faculty and Staff awards 4/17 and thank you

 

Dear faculty and staff, As a reminder, please join us for the following events: Campus Conversation Monday, April 7, 2025 9:00 - 10:00 am Kirby Ballroom Add to calendar Members of the Senior Leadership Team and I will host a campus conversation on Monday, April 7. This will serve as a follow-up to our fall conversation around values and provide other updates as we make our way through the academic year. Faculty, Staff, and Years of Service Awards ceremony Thursday, April 17, 2025 3:00 - 4:00 pm Kirby Ballroom ​​​​​​​Add to calendar Please join us in celebrating the accomplishments of our UMD employee community! Refreshments will be served. For disability-related accommodations or dietary requests, please contact the Chancellor's Office at chan@d.umn.edu at least two weeks prior to the event. Awards include: Undergraduate Faculty Advisor Award Graduate Faculty Advisor Award Outstanding Staff Awards Outstanding Staff Team Award Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching Chancellor's Award for Outstanding Public Service Chancellor's Award for Distinguished Research/Creative Activity Faculty & Staff Years of Service Awards for 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40+ Horace T. Morse - University of Minnesota Alumni Association Award for Outstanding Contributions to Undergraduate Education Justice, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (JEDI) - University of Minnesota John Tate Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Advising McKnight Land Grant Professorship Award And finally, thank you for participating in the Maroon, Gold and Bold listening session this past Monday. Together we came up with inspiring thoughts, bold ideas, etc. These ideas will be incorporated to shape the future of the University of Minnesota. You can find more information on the Maroon, Gold and BOLD website.  Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Reminder to join us for Maroon, Gold, and Bold listening session - 3/31

 

Dear students, faculty, and staff, This is a reminder to please join us on Monday, March 31 at 10:00 am in the Kirby Ballroom to share your thoughts, ideas, and perspectives on your vision for the University’s bold future as part of the Maroon, Gold and Bold strategic planning process. Let us know if you are able to attend by submitting your RSVP and adding to your calendar. During the session/meeting we will discuss several key questions: From your vantage point, what will distinguish the University of Minnesota System as a leader in higher education in 2035? How has the University of Minnesota System (as distinct from each campus) impacted you?  What do you see as the University of Minnesota System’s biggest strengths?  What can the University of Minnesota System do better?  In what fields of research do you imagine we could most make an impact?  How should we aspire to serve our nation, world, and/or state differently across the next decade?  What do you think the University of Minnesota System should do to improve and excel in its educational offerings and opportunities? What barriers prevent the University of Minnesota System from accomplishing its full potential?  What changes in the world should the University of Minnesota System meaningfully influence?  I’m looking forward to an engaging, inspiring and productive discussion. Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Update and spring break greetings

 Dear students, faculty, and staff,

While many of us will still have items on our to-do list, I understand that next week, the campus will be quieter with spring break. I hope you can find some time to relax and recharge for the final push through the academic year.

I am aware of the mix of uncertainty and stress that many members of our campus community feel given the recent federal communications and executive orders. I want to echo what University of Minnesota President Rebecca Cunningham said in her message earlier this week. While there are many unanswered questions, we will hold true to our mission and values to fuel discovery and provide valuable learning opportunities today and into the future.

The federal landscape continues to evolve and we are closely monitoring activity to understand impacts and be prepared with scenario planning. I recognize the challenges that come with this uncertainty and that there is a desire to know what the effects of those decisions may look like on our campus. Our intention is to approach any updates methodically while staying true to the university’s mission of research and discovery, teaching and learning, and outreach and public service.

You may not hear from university leadership weekly. As mentioned above, there are teams monitoring information continuously. For the latest information and continued updates, please visit our Rapid Response website. This website covers a range of issues, including diversity, equity and inclusion, research funding, immigration, and activity within the Department of Education.

Thank you for your understanding as we navigate this together. I want you to know that the work we do matters, in the region, state, nation, and world. You matter. And together, we will continue to make a difference.

Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

System strategic planning 3/31, campus conversation 4/7, awards and recognition 4/17

 

Dear Colleagues, I wanted to share a few dates with you and hope that you are able to join us. Please mark your calendars. System Strategic Planning - Maroon, Gold, and Bold listening session - March 31 President Cunningham is working to set the stage for a bold future at the University of Minnesota—one that pushes boundaries and redefines what is possible. Your participation will help ensure our systemwide strategic plan reflects the many voices that make up our University community. Please let us know if you can join us on Monday, March 31 from 10-11:30 am in the Kirby Student Center Ballroom to share your thoughts, ideas, and perspectives on your vision for the University’s bold future as part of the Maroon, Gold and Bold strategic planning process by submitting your RSVP and adding to your calendar. During the session/meeting we will discuss several key questions: From your vantage point, what will distinguish the University of Minnesota System as a leader in higher education in 2035? How has the University of Minnesota System (as distinct from each campus) impacted you? What do you see as the University of Minnesota System’s biggest strengths? What can the University of Minnesota System do better? In what fields of research do you imagine we could most make an impact? How should we aspire to serve our nation, world, and/or state differently across the next decade? What do you think the University of Minnesota System should do to improve and excel in its educational offerings and opportunities? What barriers prevent the University of Minnesota System from accomplishing its full potential? What changes in the world should the University of Minnesota System meaningfully influence? I encourage you to visit president.umn.edu/maroon-gold-and-bold to learn more about the University’s strategic planning process. Campus Conversation - April 7 Members of the Senior Leadership Team and I will host a campus conversation on April 7 at 9:00 am in the Kirby Ballroom. This will serve as a follow-up to our fall conversation around values and provide other updates as we make our way through the academic year. Faculty, Staff and Years of Service Awards - April 17 Please join us for the faculty, staff and years of service awards on April 17 at 3:00 pm in the Kirby Ballroom. I’m looking forward to engaging, inspiring and productive discussions. Best,

Charles Nies Chancellor

Updates from Campus Leadership

Dear Campus Community, On Monday, President Cunningham sent a message to the University of Minnesota community about the University’s efforts to assess the implications to our operations following rapidly changing federal policies. In that and previous messages, she emphasized our ongoing commitment to all campus community members and reaffirmed the University’s longstanding commitment to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment that supports the needs of every individual across the System. She clarified that the University of Minnesota has not rolled back diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, and we are not making any preemptive changes to our existing programs. My leadership team and I echo these sentiments at UMD. This message to our campus community represents a collective conversation with senior leaders at the system level and leaders across campus. We highly value the people who support diversity of thought and inclusion, which are integral to our engaged learning and discovery. Our support, guidance, and advocacy extends to all identities represented by all members of our community. Faculty, staff, and students who have questions about support and resources around federal immigration policies can consult this UMN website, which will continue to be updated with information and guidance. A University of Minnesota team has been created to review executive orders and policy changes to develop guidance for the university and our community. We will keep you updated as this information is made available. As we navigate through these dynamic times, it is essential to reaffirm our commitment to the values that define our University. We know these must be more than words in messages. They must be practiced by all of us and reflected in how we learn, work, and interact in our community. At UMD, we seek to build a community in which every individual is valued and respected as we work together to prepare students to thrive as lifelong learners and globally engaged members of our communities. I urge each of you to engage in open, respectful dialogue and to listen with empathy. We can strive to understand one another, even when we disagree. Now, as always, our strength lies in our ability to come together, to support one another, and to learn from our differences. Let us build a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and where every voice is heard. Thank you for your support in advancing our mission and holding steadfast to our values, as we focus on student success and lift up the diverse voices and perspectives that make UMD such an incredible place. Sincerely,

Charles Nies Chancellor

 

Semester greeting and Innovation Grants

 

Dear Colleagues, I hope your spring semester is off to a good start. It is exciting to feel the campus come to life again with a sense of renewal. Being part of this university is incredible and, as I wrote in a recent piece for the Duluth News Tribune, I’m motivated every day by our work to advance student success and generate knowledge that improves our world. In my role, I often hear from UMD’s creative and committed faculty, staff, and students about how to strengthen what UMD offers to its members and our community. To surface and support your good ideas, I am pleased to call for Innovation Grant applications. These grants will support collaborative projects that integrate programs, services, or experiences across different departments and academic disciplines. The grants will be supported by the Chancellor’s Excellence Fund, a philanthropic fund that supports the university as we advance excellence that is aligned with our mission. This one-time seed funding is intended to develop innovative initiatives that are cost-neutral, or that could provide cost savings or generate new revenues. Please read the guidelines and connect with your colleagues to consider how to leverage this opportunity. The deadline to apply for innovation grants is Friday, February 21. I am looking forward to a busy and inspiring semester. We will continue to have conversations around our values, enrollment, and academic programs. We will also continue to strengthen our partnerships on campus, across the system, and with external stakeholders as we work together to deliver on all aspects of our mission. Thanks for your commitment to advancing the university’s mission and values. Best,

Charles Nies Chancellor