South Carolina

Bob Jones University in South Carolina cuts 50 jobs after $4M shortfall

GREENVILLE, S.C. — Conservative Christian Bob Jones University in South Carolina is reducing its workforce by 50 people to make up for a more than $4 million shortfall.

Faculty members losing their positions have been notified their contracts will not be renewed at the end of this academic year in May, university spokesman Randy Page said.

The university in Greenville is going to concentrate on majors, Page said.

"These actions were taken at the direction of the board of trustees to strengthen our position for growth in academic areas that continue to provide enrollment growth," Page told The Greenville News.

[Charlotte School of Law students wait for relief months after campus closes]

Increased health care costs and scholarships caused the budget problems, Page said.

University band director Dan Turner said many of the positions being dropped are in fine arts. He is retiring from the school after 47 years.

"This is not a shock to anybody who has been paying attention," Turner said. "We knew something had to happen."

In refocusing its priorities, the university is hiring new professors to teach in growing programs, like engineering, nursing and education, Page said.

The university is adding 760 students this year, Page said.

[LINK: Letter to Charlotte School of Law president on operating license]

Turner said he understands what Bob Jones University is going through. Many other Christian schools are adjusting their roles.

Channel 9's past coverage of Charlotte School of Law troubles:

"We know that everything God brings to us is for our ultimate benefit, even though, as scripture says, 'the discipline for the Lord is painful,'" he said. "The ultimate result is to give us a greater depth of faith and reliance on God for his provision and his ultimate blessing and protection. We hold onto that during the good times and the others."

Bob Jones University regained its federal tax-exempt status in 2017 after losing it 30 years ago over an interracial dating ban.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

Associated Press

0

Most Read