SC State considers budget cuts, faces 'a serious situation'

Posted: 02.03.2012 at 11:33 AM

South Carolina State University could face a nearly $4 million shortfall. / Source: SCSU

ORANGEBURG, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina State University is considering budget cuts to make up for an estimated shortfall of almost $4 million.

Trustee Maurice Washington says the Orangeburg school faces a serious situation.

Washington said during a committee meeting on Thursday that revenues through Jan. 24 were down about $8.5 million. The school expects to bring in an additional $5.5 million by the end of the fiscal year June 30.

Washington says that would leave the school facing a nearly $4 million shortfall.

He blames most of the shortfall on a decline in enrollment. The school has about 500 fewer students than expected.

School President George Cooper has recommended a plan to save more than $4 million in the next five months.