March 6, 2026
Dear colleagues,
The Washington State University Board of Regents issued a formal resolution
directing the WSU administration to provide support to Athletics in the fiscal year 2027
operating budget to address a projected budget shortfall. The regents issued
the resolution during the regular board meeting this week.
This action reflects the Board’s recognition that a strong Athletics program
is one of the main drivers of student recruitment, retention, and institutional
pride. It strengthens WSU’s visibility, affinity and reputation while fully
supporting — and in no way detracting from — WSU’s core academic and research
mission. The $20 million in support will stabilize Athletics operations through FY27,
providing critical time for WSU leadership and Cougar Athletics to expand
revenue streams and accelerate fundraising efforts.
As I mentioned in my last communication on our budget, in the coming months
we will:
Take a thoughtful approach to developing
structural adjustments rather than short-term fixes
Protect core academic priorities and minimize
disruption to students
Create aligned reductions correlated with
our long-term strategic goals
Make decisions that hold for the long term,
instead of rushed ones that could have unintended, lasting consequences
The FY27 operating budget, including this support, will
be presented to the Board of Regents for approval in May 2026.
This moment calls for the Cougar community — especially our donors and
supporters — to step forward and invest in the future of WSU Athletics ensuring
we are competitive, sustainable and aligned with the academic excellence and
student success that defines Washington State University for generations to come.
Go Cougs!
Betsy Cantwell
President, Washington State University
