SUDBURY -- The Laurentian University Faculty Association (LUFA) released a statement on Friday morning deploring the school's decision to close the school's Theatre Arts and the Motion Picture Arts programs.
"These two programs contribute greatly not only to the university community, but the vibrancy of our artistic communities in Sudbury and the Northeastern Ontario region," said Fabrice Collin, Laurentian faculty association president.
Both programs are hosted by Thornloe University as part of the Laurentian federation, which also includes Huntington University and University of Sudbury.
"Where will these students go?" asked Colin.
"They were following their dreams and enrolled in good faith, and now the carpet has been pulled out from underneath them."
In the statement, the association points to significant financial challenges brought on by changes to the funding model announced by Laurentian last year – resulting in a shortfall of Thornloe's funding.
"This disaster has been in the making for some time, and the Laurentian Board of Governors cannot hide from the fact that it was the prime instigator," said Colin.
Colin has said that LUFA will partner with a community led campaign to save the program.
LUFA represents more than 400 full-time and over 300 part-time faculty members from Laurentian University, Huntington University, Thorneloe University and the University of Sudbury.
This is a developing story. More to come.
