Governor Jim Pillen released a memo July 8 directing state agencies, boards and commissions to reduce their current fiscal year spending effective July 1. This measure is to offset Nebraska income tax refunds that significantly exceeded projections and totaled $307 million more than anticipated in the 2026 fiscal year.
Dr. Jeffrey P. Gold, president of the University of Nebraska system, emailed faculty and staff July 10 outlining how university leaders are working closely with the governor’s office regarding expectations in fulfilling the measures outlined in the memo. Gold has also engaged the budget and fiscal teams from the system and each of the campuses to strategize next steps to implement changes.
University of Nebraska–Lincoln Interim Chancellor Katherine S. Ankerson emailed faculty and staff July 10 to report that the Executive Leadership Team is working with the President's Office and appropriate state policymakers to better understand what the governor's directive will mean for the university.
Ankerson said she expects to communicate with the campus community further in the coming days.
"Just as I ask for your continued commitment to this institution, I want you to know that this institution is dedicated to you," Ankerson wrote. "We will pursue clarity with urgency and determine next steps with the needs of our students, faculty, and staff as our highest priority."
