Southern Oregon University faces potential closure unless it implements significant operating changes, according to consultants advising the institution. Deloitte’s presentation to governing officials recommended immediate cost reductions, including cutting money-losing academic programs, freezing salaries in the near term, and pursuing shared services for administrative functions. The plan also suggested developing a “controlled winddown” approach if financial milestones are missed. The state previously approved emergency funding—$15 million—conditioned on meeting budget and planning requirements that further constrain the university’s room to maneuver. The consulting report reframes the decision as both an academic portfolio and governance challenge: 13 of the university’s 23 academic units reportedly operated at losses in 2024–25, leaving limited paths to preserve programs without major restructuring.