Dear BSU Community,
Thank you for your many contributions to the continued success of Bowie State University. Because of your dedication, we have achieved a great deal together this academic year. At the same time, as the higher education landscape continues to evolve, we want to take a moment to share an update on our financial outlook and the steps ahead to ensure our long-term sustainability.
As we move forward following the close of the legislative session, Bowie State is continuing its standard budget development process for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27). This work includes a careful review of expenditures, an evaluation of organizational structures, and identification of opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness. At the same time, we are thinking more broadly about how to position the university to thrive in a changing environment. Additional details regarding the budget process and timeline are available on our website.
State Budget Overview
On April 13, 2026, the Maryland General Assembly finalized the FY27 state budget, which includes a 1.5 percent cost-of-living adjustment for Regular Staff, Contingent II, Regular Faculty and Long-Term Contractual Faculty. Maryland’s $70.8 billion FY27 operating budget reflects difficult fiscal choices, as state leaders addressed a projected $1.5 billion shortfall while sustaining support for higher education, all within a climate of ongoing budget constraints and economic pressure.
In anticipation of these challenges, we have worked intentionally to keep our campus community informed and engaged. Over the past several months, we have hosted town halls, open forums, listening sessions and discussions with our shared governance groups. We are deeply appreciative of the thoughtful perspectives shared during these conversations, which have helped guide our planning.
FY26 Budget Recap
Reflecting briefly on the past year, in Fiscal Year 2026 the university successfully addressed a $13.6 million shortfall without implementing layoffs. This was made possible through a combination of cost reductions, delayed hiring, elimination of vacant positions, process improvements and efforts to increase revenue. While this speaks to the strength and collective commitment of our community, it also underscores the ongoing nature of the financial pressures we now carry into FY27.
FY27 Financial Outlook
Looking ahead, we are facing an estimated FY27 budget deficit of approximately $18 million. This is driven by a combination of factors, including reduced state and federal funding, declining enrollment and rising operational costs such as employee benefits, infrastructure, utilities and essential technology investments. In addition, lower enrollment projections are affecting tuition, fee and auxiliary revenues. Together, these challenges point to a broader structural gap that will require thoughtful, sustained action.
Strategic Direction & University Commitment
At the heart of this conversation is student affordability. As a public institution committed to access and opportunity, we are increasingly seeing how financial barriers influence students’ decisions to enroll and persist. This reality reinforces the importance of aligning our resources with our mission while ensuring the long-term health of the university.
Amid these conditions, we are grateful for the extraordinary philanthropic support Bowie State continues to receive. Record levels of private giving reflect a strong confidence in our mission and have helped expand scholarships, strengthen operations, advance innovation and grow our endowment. While these investments are meaningful and impactful, they are not a substitute for the recurring resources needed to address long-term structural challenges.
Our path forward will be shaped by our commitment to transparency, shared governance and the priorities outlined in our Boldly Forward Strategic Plan. Above all, we will remain focused on protecting the core of our mission and providing access to a high-quality, affordable education while positioning Bowie State University for future success.
Workforce Impacts
We recognize that this period may bring uncertainty and want to assure you that we are approaching each decision with care, thoughtfulness and deep respect for our faculty, staff and students.
With that in mind, we must also take a disciplined approach to balancing revenues and expenses. Building on earlier efforts, divisions have already identified cost reductions, evaluated vacant positions and implemented strategic adjustments, including restructuring in certain areas and decisions not to backfill select roles.
Even with these steps, additional action will be necessary. The FY27 budget will require a reduction of an estimated 79 positions through a combination of vacancies, reorganization and layoffs. These decisions are being made through a comprehensive and deliberate process and will adhere to all applicable laws, policies and collective bargaining agreements.
We recognize that this is difficult news. Please know that these decisions are not a reflection of the dedication and excellence you bring to Bowie State each day but rather the result of significant financial challenges that we must address to ensure the university’s long-term viability.
As part of our continued commitment to communication and engagement, we encourage you to attend the FY27 Budget Forum on May 15, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in the Student Center Ballroom. This will be an opportunity to learn more about the university’s financial outlook and budget, understand the layoff plan and process, explore available resources and support, and engage in continued dialogue. Prior budget presentations are also available for your review online.
Thank you again for your continued dedication, resilience and commitment to Bowie State University. Together, we will navigate this period with care and purpose and position our institution for a strong and sustainable future.
Sincerely,
Aminta H. Breaux, Ph.D.
President
Guy-Alain Amoussou, Ph.D.
Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs
Manish Kumar
Vice President for Administration & Finance
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