A pandemic's tempest

CHENEY – In a way, the COVID-19 crisis was Eastern Washington University’s perfect storm.

Already engaged in a college realignment and facing declining enrollment, the pandemic that hit earlier this year has culminated recently in over 400 staff layoffs, a steep loss of revenue and Monday’s vote of no confidence in the university’s president.

Realignment

In 2008 – 2009, Eastern’s trustees endorsed a reduction in the number of degree/major options offered at the university. EWU Provost Dr. David May said there was no follow through on that commitment, however, as student enrollment increased ea...