MACOMB, Illinois- Around 130 WIU employees will be receiving pink slips as the university places the blame on low enrollment and budget issues.
"As a result of the current budget situation, including decreased enrollment, it is necessary to reduce our expenditures, including position reductions across the University. We have pledged to work with employees to provide career counseling and assistance with employment searches."-WIU President Jack Thomas
Some students tell News 8 they weren't surprised by the layoffs themselves but were surprised by the number of professors and employees who lost their jobs.
"It's really unfortunate that people have to lose their jobs because of the lower enrollment," freshman fire science student Mike Hunger says. "I was kind of surprised but after a little thinking it makes sense."
Others say they're worried about the university's future.
"I am worried because I really do like the staff and they're really nice..." first-year law enforcement major Nicholas Peterson says. "That fear keeps coming back as the year goes on and I make more friends and memories. That fear just keeps jumping back, like I could not be here a year, two years from now."
A former WIU professor tells WQAD, most staff on campus are nervous, and morale is low.
The University says approximately 132 employees are being laid off, but this number could change.
University officials declined requests for interviews.
WQAD will follow up on this developing story.
