Bethel University Announces Multiple Job Cuts, Program Closures

Bethel University announced on June 26, 2024, a strategic realignment to ensure long-term sustainability and effectiveness in achieving our mission. As part of this realignment, we have made the difficult decision to lay off several employees and close some programs.

This decision was not taken lightly. In order to balance the budget, we have taken steps to reduce Bethel’s expenses to a level commensurate with our current staffing and revenues.

These measures included eliminating our swimming, bowling and inline skating programs, reducing faculty and staff positions by prioritizing vacancies, reducing operating expenses and other measures. These measures are difficult and cause distress, but they are necessary to establish a sustainable financial foundation to serve our students.

“My arrival comes at a challenging time for higher education,” said President Perry Moulds, who takes office July 1, 2024. “Collectively, we face a multitude of challenging circumstances, including declining enrollment, the looming ‘demographic cliff,’ and declining public confidence in the value of a college degree. It is imperative that institutions manage their financial health responsibilities to provide the best educational and development opportunities for the students and communities we serve.”

We deeply regret the impact this decision has on the lives of those affected.

By taking action in a variety of ways over the spring and summer, we have placed the University in a position of greater financial strength to continue this excellent work.

We look forward to seeing Bethel’s progress, growth and success in the future. We appreciate our community’s understanding and support during this time of change.

Together, we will overcome these challenges and emerge stronger, more focused and better positioned for the future.