Fact Sheet
Why consolidate campuses?
As part of a statewide effort to increase college completion and to make post secondary education more accessible to all Georgians, now is the best time to consolidate institutions that are in the best interest of the students of this state.
With the focus always returning to the welfare of its students, the purpose of the System is to provide a network of institutions that offer a range of needed degrees for 21st century demands as well as innovative opportunities in research and service to students and faculty.
Consolidating campuses will actually allow for increased educational opportunities, increase administrative efficiencies, and improve overall effectiveness. Consolidation will overall make the system a better system.
Will any campuses be closed?
No.
Why these campuses and not others?
The four proposed consolidations will enhance educational opportunities in each of the affected communities. Each allows for increased degree offerings, enhanced education attainment rates, expanded distance learning options, and economies of scale by creating larger institutions which can provide greater service level to students. Each also builds on existing partnerships or relationships.
How much money will be saved?
Reducing administrative costs and functions is a goal of consolidating institutions but it will not be a quick process. It is anticipated that it will take at least a 12-18 months to implement the consolidation of the individual institutions and to properly calculate savings attained by the action.
There are many variables depending on the campus. Savings will occur from decreased administrative costs and increased service efficiencies. Realized savings will be redirected for instructional purposes.
Will there be layoffs?
A decrease in the number of jobs will likely occur but until details are worked out it is not possible to know how many or which ones. Certain administrative functions will be combined resulting in the need for fewer positions over time.
When will the consolidations go into effect?
We will immediately begin consolidating campuses. We will have different timetables for each one if necessary. The target date for full integration is fall of 2013 but depending on each situation some could happen faster or slower.
What happens next?
The Board is asked to approve the proposal at the January board meeting. If approved, the staff will begin implementation immediately.
How will this be done?
The process will be transparent and will heavily involve each campus. Consolidation will begin with the formation of implementation working groups, which reflect a diverse constituent base on each campus. Any policy or other decisions related to consolidations will be made by the Regents’ Special Committee on Consolidation and approved by the Board of Regents.
What will the new school be called? What about mascots, school colors, etc.?
Many questions will be addressed in the course of the implementation. Some will take several months to address. Final authority for all decisions will rest with the Board.