Memorial University gets advice from staff as it aims to cut spending by $20 million

ST. JOHN’S — Students and staff at Newfoundland and Labrador’s only university have offered the administration suggestions to reduce costs, increase revenue, and boost morale as the school looks to cut millions of dollars in spending.

This week, the university published on its website a summary of the anonymous suggestions it had received, which include opening a school-run cafe as a source of revenue, and reviewing some senior administration roles. The school solicited the feedback as it faces “urgent financial pressures,” according to its latest budget.

“Significant changes are necessary to ensure Memorial is able to meet the needs of students, and the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, in a financially sustainable manner now and into the future,” the university’s 2025-26 budget document says.

When asked if the spending cuts would result in layoffs, spokesperson Chad Pelley said the school was still determining budget allocations for faculties, schools and units.

“During this process, our goal is to ensure the long-term financial sustainability of Memorial and safeguard academic quality and the student experience while using a people-centred approach,” Pelley said in an email Thursday.

Memorial University and its Marine Institute are headquartered in St. John’s, N.L., but the school has campuses in western Newfoundland, Labrador and England.

The university is looking to reduce spending by more than $20.8 million in the 2025-26 fiscal year. In December, the administration announced it would limit hiring due to a drop in enrolment that resulted in a loss of $9.5 million in tuition fees.

Among the cost-saving tips posted to Memorial’s website Monday are suggestions that the school rent out its facilities for events, meetings and film shoots. “Decrease hosting and gifts,” said one. Another urged the school to stop using consultants and outside contractors.

Earlier this year, auditor general Denise Hanrahan released a report saying the university’s classes and labs sat empty for more hours than they should have. In 2023, she called out the administration’s spending on head-hunting firms to recruit for its top ranks.

Some suggested a review of the Marine Institute and Grenfell campus, in western Newfoundland. Others said the university could offer more courses and programs for professional credentials.

The university might solve “chronic absenteeism” by reassessing its policies “to provide reasonable amounts of sick leave that are in line with other public institutions,” said one note.

Memorial’s website says the tips posted Monday are merely suggestions and not plans.

“The university appreciates the input from employees and are pleased with the level of engagement across our campuses, at town halls and other portfolio meetings,” Pelley said.

“As decisions are made to address the budget reduction, we will be communicating these actions to the Memorial community and the wider community.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 3, 2025.

The Canadian Press