Eastern’s chapter of the University Professionals of Illinois is sponsoring a meeting for adjunct faculty Wednesday to discuss budget issues and the effects budget cuts could have on academic programs across the campus.

“We are going to be talking about the present budget situation and strategies for dealing with it,” said David Radavich, president of Eastern’s chapter of UPI.

A budget shortfall of $2.9 million dollars is expected for next year despite the 5.9 percent increase in Eastern’s funding recommendations from the Illinois Board of Higher Education.

In reference to the shortfall, Lida Wall, interim vice president of academic affairs, previously said, “The university has to find additional means to fund its outstanding obligations.”

Eastern’s academic departments are currently in the process of prioritizing their departmental budgets to accommodate the budget shortfall.

“We will also give a presentation the effects of the budget cuts, especially on the effects of cutting or consolidating courses in academic programs,” Radavich said.

Radavich said the meeting will also offer helpful tips for those who might possibly be looking at undergoing a job change.

The meeting is primarily for annually contracted faculty, Radavich said, but others are welcome as well.

The meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. in the faculty lounge (2504) of the Buzzard Building.