In a recent meeting, Loyalist College announced significant layoffs affecting a large number of professors due to a projected $40 million funding shortfall for the current fiscal year. This financial crisis is primarily attributed to a decline in international student enrollment and the Ontario government's tuition freeze (QNetNews, 2025).
The college plans to indefinitely suspend intake for 30% of its programs starting this fall, including Architectural Technology, Biotechnology, Culinary Management, and the Journalism and Communications programs. The suspension of the journalism programs, including photojournalism, marks the end of a program that once produced award-winning journalists but has faced declining enrollment in recent years (Quinte News, 2025).
A large number of staff have been impacted by the financial situation, with job cuts coming from multiple departments (Quinte News, 2025).
President and CEO Mark Kirkpatrick pointed to the federal cap on international student visas as a major contributor to the revenue decline (QNetNews, 2025).
A source who attended the meeting, referred to as "The Professor," spoke about the emotional toll the layoffs have taken on faculty and staff.
"It’s a tough day for education in Ontario," he said. "The College is $40 million in debt according to what we were told at the meeting. Many talented educators are losing their jobs, and students as well as the community will ultimately feel the effects of these cutbacks" (The Professor, 2025).
Government Support & The Educational System
Loyalist College’s financial struggles are not unique. The Ontario government has faced criticism for failing to adequately support colleges and universities, with funding levels among the lowest per student in the country (The Walrus, 2024).
While no direct funding cuts have been announced, the lack of increased provincial support combined with restrictive policies on tuition fees and international students has exacerbated the situation (Higher Ed Strategy, 2024).
Share Your Voice
The recent developments at Loyalist College will have lasting effects on students, faculty, and the surrounding community. If you have been affected by these changes or have thoughts on the future of post-secondary education in Ontario, share your story and be part of the conversation.
Your voice matters, call (613) 969-1913 and tell them how you've been affected as a student, parent, or faculty member. Alone we are quiet but together we can be loud!
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It is a difficult and painful time for everyone involved