‘I really want to study what I came here to study for’: UNL students, faculty protest proposed cuts

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – The decision on the proposed budget cuts at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is fast approaching.

After several events to raise awareness of their opposition, the American Association of University Professors held an event in the student union on Thursday to continue gathering support.

This is the fourth event this week meant to raise awareness about the $27.5 million proposed cuts, which would eliminate four programs at the university.

Dr. Regina Werum, a UNL professor, calls the cuts devastating.

“No matter what the administration claims, there was no input from faculty when coming up with these recommendations,” she said. “When we were finally able, through the AAUP, to make suggestions, they were promptly disregarded.”

Werum is also a member of the organization. She said the rejection of input came in the form of what she calls “Friday night massacres.”

“By sending out emails and notifications at a time when they know no one is looking, at the end of semesters, on weekends, on holidays, and over the summer when the faculty is not on contract. So in order for us to respond, we would have to work without pay,” said Werum.

Students were also present at the rally, showing up in a steady stream to show their support.

Many of whom are in programs proposed to be cut.

Rayne Aurit is a junior at UNL studying Statistics and Computer Science.

“I really want to study what I came here to study for,” she said.

Aurit says her initial reaction to the proposed cut was shock and confusion.

“Especially because I have a scholarship that tells me that my degree is in demand,” she said about the Nebraska Career Scholarship.

“They gave me over $17,000 to come here for that reason. So, it’s like, you want me, but you don’t want me…it’s confusing!” said Aurit.

“It sends a pretty poor message to the students here that I’m not cared about,” she said.

The AAUP has its final rally scheduled for Friday, just one hour before the Board of Regents meets to vote.

Aurit says she is 80th in line to speak directly to the board at that meeting.