West Virginia University recently faced significant budget shortfalls, leading to the elimination of various programs, including the world language department. This decision prompted student activism, with the formation of The West Virginia United Students’ Union. The union, comprised of many first-generation college students and those receiving financial aid, played a crucial role in organizing protests and petitions to oppose the cuts.
The university's financial challenges were attributed to factors such as enrollment declines, revenue loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, and debt from new building projects. The cuts, which affected 8% of majors and 5% of faculty, were criticized for neglecting the institution's mission as a land-grant university to provide education to historically underserved rural students.
