CSU to stay open through academic year

CHICAGO (WLS) -- On the first day of classes, Chicago State University announced Monday that it will be open for the entire academic school year.

The announcement comes after CSU laid off over 300 employees since the beginning of 2016.

"Our recent staff reductions and other cost savings have allowed us to plan for a full academic year," said Sabrina Land, CSU spokesperson.

The long delay in finalizing a state budget hurt the school severely, and the budget was cut about 30 percent.

"All the state schools are struggling," said Dean of Students Sheila Collins. "We're here, we're open, our students are going to do well, and we are going to be there for them."

The cuts have helped CSU. The school is saving $2.2 million each month, and CSU is continuing to enroll students.

Officials said they predict a 20 percent drop in enrollment. An exact number will not be available until enrollment closes in September, but CSU officials said they are way under their prediction at only 12 percent.

The school also made other cost cuts they felt were needed to stay open.

Several students said they are feeling confident.

"You are always going to get frustrated," said CSU Senior Ariana La Vine. "But the staff has made sure to tell us from a student perspective we wouldn't see a difference around campus."

The university is celebrating 150 years this year.