Surviving the enrollment growth funding formula

Leadership changes in universities usually bring about philosophical and operational shifts within the institution. When these shifts involve resource allocation procedures, nursing programs are often highlighted because their costs appear great in comparison to traditional academic units. This was the exact situation at East Carolina University, a case history of which is presented here. Strategies for dealing constructively with this negative situation are outlined, as are lessons learned. A positive outcome required a thorough knowledge of funding processes, faculty involvement in generating solution alternatives, frequent and effective communication, and patience.