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Easton on budget cuts, becoming permanent DSU president

Dickinson State University

When Stephen Easton was hired as the interim President of Dickinson State University, he knew he was facing a significant budget issue.

Easton said he has to cut $2.35 million per year in order to reach a balanced budget. He said there have already been some voluntary retirements and early departures, under some incentives. And he said there have been some reductions in non-personnel expenses. But Easton said those efforts have not been sufficient.

Easton is planning to send a campus-wide e-mail Jan. 16th, at 2 pm (MT), which will outline his proposed plan.

"There will be some currently occupied positions that will be eliminated," Easton said. "That will be a painful process."

Easton said DSU administration had been working on those budget issues for some time before he arrived on campus.

"I think people are ready to make the tough decisions involved and then get past it," Easton said. "Nonetheless, it's going to be hard. Good people who work for Dickinson State will lose their jobs, and that's a very painful thing."

Still, Easton said there are some very bright days ahead for the University. He points to the new “dual-mission” for the campus, to provide liberal arts as well as career and technical education.

"I do believe that we can 'pivot-out' of these budget issues, into some very good times," Easton said.

Meanwhile, Easton said he is “interested” in remaining as the permanent president. But he said there are a number of factors to consider.

Easton has taken a leave of absence from his position as a professor at the University of Wyoming Law School. Easton said this interim appointment will last through June 30th, but the contract does not have a definite ending date.

Easton said he will have discussions with University System Chancellor Mark Hagerott and the Board of Higher Education about becoming the permanent president.

"Dickinson State is very much a passion for me and for my family," Easton said. "I'm one of four generations of my family that has had a wonderful benefit of a Dickinson State Education. I'm here because I think it's a critical time in the University's existence, and I'm hoping I can contribute."

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