The following message was sent to all faculty and staff on Sept. 24, 2025.
Dear Colleagues,
The State of Idaho’s Division of Financial Management (DFM) sent a memorandum to all state agencies on Sept. 18 directing an ongoing 3 percent budget reduction beginning in FY27.
This spring, DFM reported that general fund revenues through April 2025 were approximately $55 million (1.2%) below FY25 projections. Slowing sales tax growth led the state to revise its revenue forecasts downward for FY26 and FY27. As a result, state agencies, including Boise State, were asked to make a one-time cut of 3 percent for the current fiscal year. As previously communicated to campus on Aug. 22 , the university was able to cover this year’s (FY26) reduction of approximately $4 million with central savings from position vacancies and expenditure reductions. Unfortunately, with last week’s announcement from DFM, the new round of reductions in colleges and divisions will be permanent.
Our administrative council met today, and each member was directed to work with their college or divisional teams to develop strategies to address a potential 2, 3, 4, and 6 percent reduction. Having this information will enable the university to consider strategic reductions rather than across the board reductions. Budget plans are due to DFM by Oct. 3. We will communicate additional guidance and submission details to Deans and Vice Presidents by tomorrow.
We are proud to be one of the most efficient universities in the country, with record-breaking growth in enrollment, research, philanthropy and graduation rates. This is thanks to the work of each of you – our incredible faculty and staff. While this budget reduction will impact our ability to do the great work Boise State is known for, we will not lose sight of our educational mission. At this critical moment, we will lean into our innovative spirit and work with university leadership to find additional efficiencies, while preserving our ability to serve students and develop Idaho’s future workforce.
We will continue to send updates to keep you informed as we learn more and move forward in the process.
Jeremiah Shinn
Interim President