PROVIDING NETWORK OPPORTUNITIES
SOU President Unveils Promising Vision Amidst Challenges at Chamber Forum Luncheon Sponsored By: Cow Creek Tribe of Umpqua Tribe of Indians Written By Emily Hunter A t our well-attended December chamber Forum luncheon, generously sponsored by the Cow
Creek Tribe of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, Southern Oregon University President Dr. Richard Bailey Jr. delivered an insightful and uplifting presentation about SOU’s recent achievements, continuing challenges, and aspirations for the future. Now completing his second year leading SOU, Dr. Bailey spoke energetically about shepherding the university through difficult circumstances towards stability and renewed success. Like colleges nationwide, SOU has
weathered enrollment declines leading to multimillion-dollar deficits in the university’s budget. “To be very frank with you, last year we were looking at a $13 million deficit in 2025, and a $14 million gap in 2026,” Bailey said. However, under Dr. Bailey’s focused leadership, the university has made strides in key areas to position itself well for surmounting present obstacles and emerging
stronger in the long run. As Dr. Bailey noted, tough times can spark overdue innovation. Among the university’s key achievements are revitalizing career-oriented academic programs, fostering local corporate partnerships for project-based learning, promoting campus diversity and inclusion, and modernizing infrastructure and resources. Such initiatives aim to engage students and stabilize sliding enrollment through relevant, well-rounded experiences. Throughout his talk, Dr. Bailey stressed that SOU must evolve with the times while preserving timeless educational values: academic rigor, close faculty-student mentorship, and stewardship to the surrounding area’s land and fostering partnerships. It is clear that Dr. Bailey wants the campus to keep nurturing curious, critical, creative minds prepared to understand complex solutions. The Chamber thanks Dr. Bailey for sharing SOU’s current progress and future aims. We look forward to actively supporting SOU on its path to enhanced stability, academic excellence, and service for students throughout the region. Judging by Dr. Bailey’s knowledgeable, passionate leadership, the university seems positioned for a bright future. n
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The Business Review | January 2024
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