UW Enacts Hiring Freeze Amid Federal Policy Changes and Budget Concerns

SEATTLE — University of Washington (UW) leadership has announced a series of budget-cutting measures as a response to significant federal policy changes and a looming state budget shortfall. Provost Tricia Serio outlined these actions, including a pause on non-essential staff hiring, limitations on faculty hiring, and the cancellation of non-essential travel and training.

Serio emphasized that the university remains in a “good financial position,” but the rapid political changes have increased the risks of funding cuts that could impact UW’s operations. During recent discussions with university leadership, Serio stated, “We are advocating for the UW by communicating the importance of our work for a thriving and secure future.”

She further explained that the proposed budget cuts aim to not only mitigate immediate financial risks but also to preserve existing research projects, patient care, instruction, and basic operations that are vital for the university’s mission.

Washington state is grappling with its own budget shortfall, prompting lawmakers to consider cuts and furloughs to address the deficit. Serio attributed this uncertainty as a catalyst for UW’s current financial adjustments. “The ups and downs of public funding – and the uncertainty of this moment, in particular – prompt stress, worry and anxiety,” she said. “By using this time to proactively save our resources and thoughtfully plan, we will be better prepared to manage any future funding cuts.”

The budget-cutting measures were communicated to UW President Ana Mari Cauce and other leadership on Friday and will go into effect immediately. As part of the program, the university aims to align its expenses with revenues while also focusing on new growth opportunities.

“While it won’t be easy, working together with a common purpose and supporting one another is the path to overcoming adversity, as we proved five years ago,” Serio said, invoking a sense of collective resilience among the university community. “Let’s trust in that Husky resilience, innovation, and determination again today.”