Western Michigan University launched an early retirement buyout program aimed at reducing budget pressure and easing workforce challenges for tenured faculty. The university said eligible faculty aged 60 and older can apply in September, with acceptance contingent on enough sign-ups to save at least $5 million. Under the program, participating faculty would depart at the end of 2026, with buyout payments ranging from 50% to 100% of salary for fiscal 2027 based on tenure length. Interim Provost Christopher Cheatham and Vice President for Finance Jan Van Der Kley framed the initiative as a proactive, transparent stewardship step. WMU’s recent financial profile includes a steep enrollment decline from 2019 to 2024 and widening operating losses in fiscal 2025, alongside reduced state appropriations and softer tuition and fee revenue.