I was saddened to learn that Sul Ross State University’s financial struggles may result in significant changes to the university, including the dismantling of the theater and art departments and a probationary arrangement for the new nursing program.

In addition to the detrimental impact to students and professors, the lack of access to theater performances and creative professors and students (who help make things like our beloved annual ArtWalk possible) will be a real blow to the Big Bend community, as will a loss in potential new health care workers.

I respect the efforts of the Academic Planning Committee in meeting the difficult challenge of keeping Sul Ross solvent (see report on-line), but hope the university might find an alternative approach that brings more support without reducing what is being offered.

Helen Snook

Alpine