After trying to overcome $30 million in debt amassed over the past several years, officials announced last week that UCSC Extension programs in Santa Cruz will be discontinued.
Extension, based both in Santa Cruz and in Silicon Valley, has long provided students and communities with UC-quality professional development. Among these courses have been award-winning programs in English language training for international students and a year-long Science Illustration certificate, both located in Santa Cruz.
The Santa Cruz programs are among Extension's most prestigious, having won acclaim for their academic excellence and service to specific niches. Unfortunately, they are also the most expensive to maintain, said Alison Galloway, vice provost in charge of Extension.
With the bulk of Extension's activities in Silicon Valley, Galloway decided to focus on professional development programs there in order to regain financial stability.
English Language International programs in Santa Cruz will cease over the fall quarter, while Science Illustration will accept its final class in this academic year. Student Services will soon join the rest of Extension administration at the Cupertino location and be moving, with this larger unit, to new Silicon Valley facilities in 2009.
The consolidation eliminates 14 staff positions in Santa Cruz and transfers six other positions to Silicon Valley.
UCSC will provide support to staff as they transition to new positions or locations.
