MISSOULA — University of Montana President Seth Bodnar says the university is looking at different ideas to offset the loss of football and athletic revenue this fall.
During his recorded "State of the University" address on Thursday, Bodnar spoke of the financial challenges being caused by the pandemic.
He said the school is already trimming some spending, saying it's still early to know what all the impacts will be.
However, he warns further cuts, or at least shifting some funding, will likely follow.
During his followup question and answer session with reporters, Bodnar says UM recognizes the cancelation of fall athletics is already presenting "significant challenges:, from tickets revenue to the money students can earn during a Griz game day.
And he said the university is looking at different ways of trying to cushion those setbacks.
“We’re adapting. We’re taking some actions to reduce spending in areas that we can. We've also and are calling on some of our supporters to help up step up and help our students through this challenging time and we are working on ways to perhaps, generate some additional revenue again, through private support. And then there's still potential for a spring season," said Bodnar.
"Athletics are incredibly important", but says the university wants to "prioritize the health and safety of our student athletes and the broader community," said Bodnar
