Southern Oregon University released a plan to cut three undergraduate programs and the equivalent of about 66 full-time positions as it seeks to stabilize finances. The restructuring is required to qualify for a one-time $15 million infusion from the Oregon Legislature, paired with an expectation that SOU produce a balanced budget for 2027–29. Institution leaders said the changes are projected to save roughly $12 million annually. The plan eliminates programs including human service, music industry and production, and financial mathematics. It also moves from multiple deans to a single dean structure to reduce departmental silos. Faculty and staff expressed concerns at a community meeting, arguing the cuts could further weaken the institution already facing recurring belt-tightening and job eliminations. The board’s vote on the proposal Thursday makes this a near-term decision point for faculty workforce planning, curriculum continuity and student access—especially for an institution framed as needing a distinct identity rather than broader program expansion.