University of Missouri announces budget cuts, hiring freeze

(AP) — An anticipated enrollment decline of 1,500 students following protests that roiled the University of Missouri has forced the college to cut general revenue budgets by 5 percent and institute a hiring freeze to help close a projected $32 million shortfall.

Foley's memo did not address the protests, which stemmed from what some students perceived as indifference by university administrators to racial discrimination.

Vice Chancellor Gary Ward discussed the university's budget Wednesday at a meeting of the regional economic development board, where he said the budget gap will affect hundreds of university employees.

At the economic development board meeting, several members encouraged other members to use any political leverage they have to pressure lawmakers considering cuts to the university's funding.