Loyalist College’s Budget Crisis Deepens: 15 Faculty Members Face Layoffs—But Here’s Where It Gets Even More Troubling
Loyalist College’s journey toward financial stability is proving to be a rocky road, marked by difficult decisions that are reshaping its future. And this is the part most people miss: while the college has been transparent about its budget challenges, the human cost of these measures is only now coming to light. On Tuesday, 15 faculty members received layoff notices, though not all affected individuals have been informed yet, according to multiple sources speaking to Quinte News.
The college’s staffing structure is complex, divided into full-time, part-time, and partial-load faculty, alongside support staff and administration. But here’s where it gets controversial: in January 2025, Loyalist announced a 20% reduction in staffing levels and a 30% cut in programs, changes that began in September. One source reveals that in just over a year, full-time faculty positions have plummeted from 140 to 74, while partial-load positions have dropped from 200 to 96. Some staff have opted for early retirement or incentive packages, but the emotional toll on those remaining is undeniable.
Interestingly, while full-time roles are shrinking, there’s been a noticeable increase in part-time faculty and administrative positions. Is this a sustainable solution, or a bandaid on a much larger wound? College President Mark Kirkpatrick shared in December 2025 that the institution now aims to serve between 2,300 and 2,500 students—a stark contrast to the 7,000 enrolled just a few years ago. This dramatic decline raises questions about the college’s long-term viability.
The financial picture is equally grim. Loyalist is facing a $14 million deficit in fiscal 2026, followed by another $10 million shortfall in 2027. Union members point to federal cuts to international student programs, reduced provincial funding, and other external factors as key contributors. But is the college doing enough to adapt, or are these cuts simply too deep?
For a deeper dive into the numbers and strategies, President Kirkpatrick’s early December presentation offers more insights. You can explore the details by CLICKING HERE.
Thought-provoking question for our readers: As Loyalist College navigates this crisis, do you think the focus should be on preserving jobs or ensuring financial stability? Share your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
