BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) — Nineteen SUNY schools, including Buffalo State and Fredonia, are facing massive structural or projected budget deficits, according to the United University Professions.

For the current fiscal year, Buff State faces a projected deficit of $16 million while Fredonia faces $16.8 million.

According to the UUP, the deficits pose a threat to the future viability of public higher education in Western New York. The schools support SUNY students, alumni, and employees in the Western New York region and serve as key drivers in economic growth in their surrounding communities.

The UUP, along with advocates and lawmakers in Buffalo, will bring attention to the deficits during a rally Tuesday.

UUP and local leaders urge Albany to invest in the necessary state support for SUNY campuses facing anticipated multi-million dollar deficits to protect affordable public education and jobs.

“The most recently enacted state budget included the most significant investment in higher education in a generation. SUNY alone is receiving about a $300 million increase in operating aid and $660 million in new capital, which will enable campuses to construct state-of-the-art classrooms, as well as research and lab space and continue to fulfill its mission to provide an affordable, high-quality, academic experience for all students. This significant funding supports the Governor’s vision to secure SUNY’s place as a global leader in higher education and workforce development, and – most importantly – includes unprecedented funding to support students, campuses, faculty, and researchers across all public colleges and universities.” 

SUNY statement