New insights have surfaced regarding Arizona State University’s decision to shut down ASU Havasu, even though ASU reported $25.9 million in savings during the 2023-24 fiscal year.
University officials disclosed plans to close the Lake Havasu City Campus on Monday, with ASU President Michael Crow attributing the decision to the Arizona Legislature’s $24 million funding cuts. But when exactly was this decision made, and who was involved?
Megan Gilbertson, associate vice president of public affairs for the Arizona Board of Regents, explained that the board’s role is to oversee the creation of academic locations. The board’s mission is to provide guidance and oversight for ASU, the University of Arizona, and Northern Arizona University.
The regents were consulted during the various stages of opening the Havasu campus. However, in recent months, there was no mention of closing ASU Havasu on any Board of Regents meeting agenda. This doesn’t necessarily mean the topic wasn’t discussed behind closed doors.
Once locations are established, Gilbertson said the board delegates management and decision-making responsibilities for the sites to the presidents within their fiscal limits. Gilbertson mentioned that board members were informed about ASU’s tough decision in light of significant budget cuts from the state, adding that “the board meets regularly with the presidents in executive sessions to discuss sensitive issues like these.”
It remains unclear when this particular discussion took place.
When asked who played a role in the decision to close the school and whether ASU Havasu staff were aware, an ASU spokesperson referred to the board’s comments.
The spokesperson further stated that state leaders made it clear in this year’s state budget that higher education is not a priority.
“While ASU is financially strong, a cut that big from the state has consequences. University leadership made these tough decisions as a result of reductions in state investment in higher education. Specific to the Lake Havasu decision, offering high-quality programs and access to high-need areas takes considerable resources. ASU cannot continue to educate students in Lake Havasu without assistance from the state.”
Despite the state funding being cut by approximately $24 million, a Sept. 6 Board of Regents 2024 cost containment report outlines various savings in 2024.
According to the report, during the 2023-24 fiscal year (which spans from July 2023 through June 2024), ASU achieved $25.9 million in cost savings. The university has also previously closed and relocated campuses, contributing to annual savings.
