Governor Jindal Slashes Healthcare and Higher Education

"Were a small institution. Weve got great programs here. Were all accredited and here we go slashing them again. Thats devastating," Chancellor Vincent Marsala said.

Although its too early to tell who exactly will be affected, educators say its inevitable cuts will have to be made.

"Everybody knows what their budget is. Theyre involved and we welcome suggestions from faculty and staff and what we can do. It will be some tough decision-making," Marsala continued.

In addition to the cuts, tuition will go up 5% next school year.

"Its already hard enough working a full time job and having to pay to get here," student Raymond Blunt.

"This school has served me well as a non-traditional student. And Im disappointed the government cant continue to support it," student Laura McCormick said.

The healthcare and higher education departments are the first to get cut because theyre not protected under Louisianas constitution. Other agencies are required by law to have at least minimum funding.

Marsala is worried the state will soon not be able to keep up with the growing workforce.

"One wonders how is Louisiana gonna compete as a state if higher ed, all of higher ed keeps getting these devastating cuts," he asks.

"If they continue to make cuts and cutting programs, what does the state have to offer? How you gonna keep students here?" McCormick asks.

The chancellor plans to meet with faculty, staff and student leadership next week to discuss the cuts.