Students and faculty warn proposed cuts to state university funding threaten programs and regional economies

Students, faculty and community leaders urged the House Finance Committee to reject proposed cuts to the University System of New Hampshire, saying reductions jeopardize programs and the state's ability to retain college‑educated residents.

Multiple students and faculty focused on Plymouth State University, where proposed cuts were described as risking elimination of programs and dozens of faculty positions. "A solution that will not hold forever," said a student who predicted program cuts would force students and towns in the North Country to lose vital educational and economic ties.

Faculty testified that smaller institutions provide intensive, personal instruction that serves first‑generation and in‑state students. "Many of our students are first generation and need more guidance," said John Lappy, a political‑science professor at Plymouth State. He warned that cutting faculty would degrade program quality and push students out of state.

Students said diminished campus offerings would weaken surrounding businesses and the regional economy. Higher education advocates asked the committee to avoid a $16.5 million reduction in university funding proposed for the biennium and to consider the long‑term costs to workforce development and local economies if in‑state options shrink.

The committee received written testimony from trustees and university leaders and said it would examine the university system's financial projections as it develops the budget.