Front gate to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln City Campus. (Jeff Motz/KFOR News)LINCOLN—(KFOR Dec. 5)—The University of Nebraska Board of Regents approved the elimination of four UNL programs and the combination of four other programs Friday, as part of a $27.5-million proposal from Chancello r Rodney Bennett. Roughly 100 people filled Varner Hall Friday morning to address the Board of Regents ahead of its vote to potentially cut millions in funding from UNL.  Public testimony lasted about six hours. Among the programs that would be impacted include: The Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences — $1.85 million in savings, 13 positions eliminated. The Department of Statistics — $1.75 million in savings, 12 positions eliminated. The Department of Educational Administration — $1.69 million in savings, 15.5 positions eliminated. The Department of Textiles, Merchandising and Fashion Design — $1.45 million in savings, 11 positions eliminated. More than 300 students will be affected by these eliminations, but will be assigned a transition coordinator to help them complete their degrees. Each of the academic programs recommended for elimination reportedly fell below the baseline standards established by CCPE or UNL performance expectations, or both, in instruction and research. “The University of Nebraska Board of Regents’ decision today to approve the administration’s program eliminations and sweeping budget reductions represents a devastating setback for the flagship university’s mission and for the people of Nebraska,” said UNL AAUP President Sarah Zuckerman, in statement sent out late Friday afternoon to KFOR News.  “Despite overwhelming testimony from faculty, students, staff, community members and 830 ‘Stop the Cuts’ petition signatures, the Regents chose to endorse cuts that will weaken core academic programs, undermine research excellence, and jeopardize the long-term vitality of our institution.” Friday’s votes for elimination began with Earth and Atmospheric Sciences. A motion to table the vote failed. During discussion, UNO Student Regent Drew Leisy said he would vote to keep the program. Further discussion showed support for the cuts from other regents. Regent Jim Scheer of Norfolk asked the audience how many testifiers participated in committee meetings before the Legislature earlier in 2025. He said that many of the people frustrated the subject of Friday’s meeting got to the “game” late after the Legislature approved less funding for the university. The framework for the new schools, including names, will be developed in spring 2026. ...read more read less