University Budget 2012-13: A message to the Ryerson community
The development of the 2012-13 Ryerson University budget is under way, and I am writing to share our starting point, and the realities going forward.
While it is sobering to start yet another budget year in an environment of continuing economic uncertainty, Ryerson is the place to be for its sustained strength and spirit - thanks to all of you. As the budget unfolds, I encourage your involvement, and look forward to hearing your questions and ideas at a Town Hall that I will be hosting next month. Details of time and place will be published in an upcoming edition of Ryerson Today.
The reason for writing in January is that our annual budget cycle depends on the Board of Governors approving the university budget in May. This means our planning must begin now. Our challenge is developing a budget with incomplete information, as we are still awaiting key decisions from government on the major elements of university income.
The current context of these decisions is well-known, and directs our best estimates in preparing a preliminary budget for discussion. While the Premier is steadfast in his priority on education and health, it is clear that the economy is constrained by the provincial deficit. We will also know more in the next few weeks when the Commission on the Reform of Ontario's Public Services, chaired by Don Drummond, releases its report. As well, to date we have not heard from government regarding its plans for tuition, a major factor with fees accounting for over 40% of the university budget.
On the expense side of the ledger, our information is more complete. With salaries, benefits and pensions accounting for 80% of the budget, and agreements in place for all employee groups, we know what is needed to meet our commitments and responsibilities.
In terms of timing, the provincial budget is not expected until April, which is far too late for university planning purposes. Given the factors above, in order to balance increased expenses with our best income estimates we are asking all units of the university to plan for a 3% reduction. We believe this to be a conservative estimate, but part of our plan is looking at ways to build our revenue base, with entrepreneurial strategies we can undertake as a university.
In preparing the 2012-13 budget, we continue to adhere to the principles that have guided us in the past. We are committed to a process that has students as our first priority, is fair and transparent, forward-looking, and includes wide consultation with the community.
The university's reputation for leadership and creative initiative continues to climb, reflecting the uniquely Ryerson approach to teaching, research, and campus development where everyone makes a mark that is meaningful in its impact and contribution.
You are showing how it's done, and your example is the reason that students continue to apply to Ryerson in increasing numbers as their destination of choice. The challenge is to continue our momentum despite the fiscally challenging times. I am confident we can.
Sheldon Levy President