President Kopp's response to Gov. Manchin's SOS

Stephen J. Kopp, president of Marshall University, responded to Gov. Joe Manchin’s State of the State address Friday by an e-mail directed to faculty and staff. Even though Manchin’s message included an action to reduce State appropriations by 3.4 percent, Kopp was positive about the success Manchin has had in keeping West Virginia in good economic standing. He was also positive that Marshall University can withstand a decrease in funding, but did make it clear that changes will have to take place.
Kopp pointed out that there are already things in the works that will improve the financial situation Marshall is facing. The physical therapy and pharmacy programs Marshall is looking to acquire are expected to benefit the university by attracting new students and by keeping those students through a strong and desirable program. The endowment-based research program is another positive financial move for the university, as it will bring money to the university without requiring financial responsibilities from the university. Kopp mentioned many environmentally-friendly improvements Marshall is making that are also a financial plus. Finding ways to conserve water, decrease power usage and decrease food waste are helping Marshall’s budget.
Kopp has a Sustainability Department devoted to the task of finding ways to save money, and he is looking for any ideas and suggestions others may have to help Marshall’s financial situation.