With budget shortfall, job cuts still fresh in mind, University of Windsor welcomes students for open house

The University of Windsor opened its doors on the weekend, giving prospective students a peek into their future as a Lancer.

The University of Windsor welcomed potential students and future Lancers on Saturday as part of the annual spring house.

The opportunity to tour the campus comes as the university faces financial turmoil.

“At my last check, I think [as of] about 5:00 this morning, it was about 1,500 students who had registered,” said Trish Sokoloski, the school’s director of recruitment.

“I think we were on par with where we were at last year for our spring open house.”

Budget projections for the university’s 2025-26 fiscal year pegged the estimated shortfall at around $30 million. As a result, the school cut 56 jobs, while creating 29 new positions for a net loss of 27 jobs.

Previously, the university cited a provincial tuition freeze and declining international student enrolment due to federal government restrictions as the reason for the financial struggles.

“Our number one priority is students, and so the student supports and the student experience is something that won’t change, it will only get better for students,” Sokoloski said when asked about the message to parents and students.

“We recognize that students are the core of the University of Windsor, and so, we’re here to support them.”

The open house provided an opportunity for students to tour campus, explore courses, and accept offers to enroll.

Sokoloski said they opened the doors to graduating high school students, as well as those who may be considering their post-secondary schooling in the coming years.

“You may come with one thought in mind of where your future career is going to take you, or where your path is going to take you, and through learning, it might take you in a different direction, and we’re here to support that.”

The university will hold a virtual open house on May 15, and Sokoloski noted campus tours are available throughout the year.