In an open letter to the Syracuse University community, Chancellor Kent Syverud warns federal politics pose a threat to the higher education institutions that have become the backbone of Central New York's economy.

"In recent weeks, I've heard from many people, on campus and beyond, concerned about federal policy changes that have significantly impacted colleges and universities, and ones that may be forthcoming," Syverud wrote. "The reality is that higher education institutions, including those here in Central New York, face tremendous uncertainty. Some proposals under consideration threaten the economic viability not only of elite universities, but perhaps even more so, the institutions that have uplifted our region for decades."

The chancellor said when Central New York lost its manufacturing base, SU, Le Moyne College, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF), Upstate Medical University and Onondaga Community College filled the void by providing tens of thousands of jobs, a sense of identity and cultural vibrancy.

"Just as we once lost our place in a world-leading manufacturing economy, we risk losing our standing in higher education and in the Central New York community if drastic cuts are made to funding for financial aid, research, libraries, veterans, and both local and international students, among others," Syverud said. "If that happens, every college and university in this region will be deeply impacted."

The note expands on an update Syverud sent to the University Senate in February in which he said budgets would foreseeably going to be tighter and SU needed to watch its expenses.