How Will Budget Shortfalls At WSU Impact CAHNRS?

Washington State University, like many other colleges and universities across the country, is facing a growing budget deficit.  For the farming community, the question is how will the multi-million-dollar budget shortfall facing the University impact the College of Ag, better known as CAHNRS?  Raj Khosla, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean, said the number one priority is sticking to the college’s values.

"We will continue to advance the mission of land-grant institution," Khosla noted.  "So, what we have done, we have done our best to make the cuts that minimizes the impact of budget cuts to our core land-grant mission, providing access and opportunity to one and all in teaching, research, extension, outreach.”

CAHNRS Must Be Flexible Going Forward

Before Khosla took the helm, CAHNRS implemented a 3% cut to help the long-term health of the budget.  Going forward, Khosla said it important the college and faculty are nimble and able to pivot quickly if needed.

"We need to be innovative. We need to be creative. We need to continue to strengthen and develop more partnerships with industry, with the state, with the people around us. How could we not only sustain, but really thrive, no matter what challenges are thrown at us.” 

Brighter Days May Be Ahead

Khosla pointed out there are some positive signs in Cougar country, noting the system-wide enrollment is stabilizing, and 2025 marked the 3rd consecutive year of growth among incoming first-year students.  Khosla says it is his hope that enrollment continues to rebound as this cohort of freshman and new students progresses at WSU.

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