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Academic Integrity
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UAs polymer program has recently been rated #1 in world. (Not the state, not U.S., but the World!)
Just 2 years ago, the school began an undergraduate polymer engineering major which is the main reason my son chose to go there. There has been a lot of media coverage recently concerning polymer research and jobs in the future in the Akron area. It seems a bad time to cut faculty, research and programs in such an integral aspect of the university's future growth.
On a side note, if the athletic department is responsible for such a large part of the current debt, why are you looking at important academic departments/programs to make your cuts?
Lisa supported: Preserve UA's polymer program for the futureUA is a powerhouse for its polymer engineering. To reduce its key components and faculty in belief that in there is a greater benefit in the long term is appalling. As an engineering student at the university, I am beyond disappointed and no longer feel supported by the university. Constant changes and drastic decisions do not promote a promising future for students.
Gianna supported: Preserve UA's polymer program for the futureThis is more than about faculty cuts; it’s about the future of our department and its students. Retrenchment threatens not only our ability to complete our degrees but also the long-term reputation of the program. Prospective students will hesitate to join a department that has lost half its faculty and resources, which could lead to a self-fulfilling death-spiral.
We understand that these are difficult decisions for university leadership given the financial situation, but the stakes are incredibly high for us as students. This could not just be an academic setback—it’s a threat to our career prospects and livelihoods.
I also understand some alumni and faculty feel our protests appear aggressive. Their discomfort in seeing signs and posters pales in comparison to what we stand to lose. Many of them and the leadership are mid-career professionals who will land on their feet regardless of the outcome, but we as students don't have the same safety net.
Brandon supported: Preserve UA's polymer program for the futureThe University of Akron has proven time and time again that their “restructuring” and “retrenching” of departments severely cripples or terminates them completely. During Covid, the entire Theatre Department was gutted and it’s a shell of its former self with students looking elsewhere for opportunities since Akron is no longer a viable option for such a career path. UA shows its community, staff, current students, and most importantly its future students that it cannot keep its promises to keep departments viable and functional after these drastic changes. UA may see the immediate benefit after making these changes (and may even decide to cut more because of these benefits) but the lasting ramifications will be detrimental to everyone. UA tells us that this change is good, but it has shown us before that the students and the community loses when these changes happen. Actions speak louder than words. UA, if you care like you say you do, you’ll listen to the voices and actions of your community and students.
Jacen supported: Preserve UA's polymer program for the futureForever grateful for the research experience I got here in high school. Now in college taking organic chemistry, I understand the great, groundbreaking research being done in this program. Save academia, support students and faculty!!
Angela supported: Preserve UA's polymer program for the futureYou’re not alone — a community of supporters is ready to back you.
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