On January 29, 2026, Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty Association president-elect Erika Merschrod told CBC News that faculty were anticipating cuts, with rumours of cuts to programs in the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, including Communication Studies and Criminology.
Memorial Provost Jennifer Lokash responded during an employee town hall on February 4, 2026, stating that the claims were “unsubstantiated” and that “public commentary and rumours create unnecessary stress and anxiety for students, faculty, and staff.”
She said that, despite claims in the media, the Communication Studies and Criminology programs are thriving.
Lokash added that she is aware of questions and concerns about the intersection between program offerings and the university’s financial circumstances.
She said there are internal avenues for collegial discussion, including faculty councils and “a highly engaged senate body,” and encouraged people to bring their questions to those forums directly.
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