It is an important weekend for the State University of New York at Fredonia. Saturday marks “Big Blue Day” when those accepted students have the chance to visit the campus between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to explore, connect with future classmates, and see what life at Fredonia is all about.

Additionally, the university announced a new provost last week. Julie Gorlewski, Ph.D., who currently serves as the Klara and Larry Silverstein Dean of the School of Education at Hunter College, will serve as chief academic officer, overseeing academic programs, faculty affairs and initiatives that advance teaching, scholarship and student success.

Both are positive happenings for an important piece to this region.

What is a bit concerning, however, are recent comments by President Stephen Kolison when talking about the improving — yet troubled — financial status of the institution.

“Some of our programs are doing very well and some of our programs are challenged,” he said, to the point of making it “very difficult to afford to continue those programs.” Kolison didn’t mention any specific programs.

The university president continued, “There are always very difficult decisions to make,” but schools all across the country “are looking at their academic array and looking at what needs to be invested in and what needs to be replaced.”

Kolison estimated the campus deficit, once at $16 million, has been trimmed to $11 million. Opponents of cuts to programming will note the administration is top heavy.

There is no denying that. Most educational facilities — including public schools — have more leadership positions than they ever considered 25 years ago.

Those administrators, however, are on the hot seat for today and moving forward. Finding a path to sustainability for struggling SUNY campuses will take more work — with likely additional reductions.

It is not the model anyone here wishes for, but it is a piece of reality facing many in higher education.