On September 12, Chancellor Bennett announced significant budget reductions totaling $27.5 million. As part of this proposal, the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Landscape Architecture and Community and Regional Planning programs have been identified for possible closure.
We recognize this news raises many questions and concerns. These two accredited programs are the only ones of their kind in Nebraska and are vital to the collaborative, interdisciplinary education we provide at the College of Architecture. Their contributions extend far beyond the classroom—strengthening our college community and delivering meaningful impact to communities across the state and beyond.
To keep students, alumni, and the public informed and engaged, we have developed two program landing pages with resources, key dates, talking points, and instructions for providing feedback:
Landscape Architecture Landing Page
Community and Regional Planning Landing Page
The Academic Planning Committee (APC) will now begin its review process, which includes opportunities for public feedback. Hearings are anticipated to begin October 1. The APC’s recommendations to the Chancellor will be informed by input from faculty, staff, students, alumni, professional partners, and members of the public.
Resources, including a continually updated FAQ and details about the budget reduction process, are also available at budgetprocess.unl.edu.
For more than 50 years, our college has advanced professions, shaped communities, and provided students with unique opportunities to collaborate across disciplines. The proposed cuts do not diminish the value of these programs, their legacy, or the impact they continue to make across Nebraska.
This is not an easy moment, but we believe in the resilience of our community. With the engagement and support of students, faculty, alumni, professional partners, and friends, we will continue to champion the importance of these disciplines and their role in shaping Nebraska’s future.
