Hundreds of students, alumni, and faculty members at Saint Louis University (SLU) have launched an online petition to save social work professor Laurie Brockhaus, whose position is set to end due to budget cuts.
Brockhaus joined SLU’s School of Social Work as a full-time faculty member at the start of the 2024-25 academic year. She had previously served as an adjunct instructor in the department since 2015 while also working as a clinical therapist. She earned her master’s degree in social work from SLU in 2008.
At the close of last academic year, Brockhaus was informed that her contract would not be renewed at the end of the 2025-26 school year because the university needed to cut one non-tenure faculty position. She said she was caught off guard by the decision.
“I was surprised because I had just been hired. I loved using my teaching and clinical experience in the classroom, and SLU has felt like a home,” Brockhaus said. “I have invested so much into SLU. I wish more time was considered, and that student voices were taken into account.”
SLU administrators said the move was necessary to address financial challenges. Brockhaus explained she was selected for termination primarily because she was the most junior faculty member in the department.
In response, students, fellow professors, and alumni have mobilized to support her. The petition, started by sophomore social work student Annrose Pallitharayil, had gathered over 200 signatures and nearly 40 comments by February 13.
“Professor Brockhaus is not simply an instructor; she is a vital pillar of the social work program and a transformative educator whose impact on students extends far beyond the classroom. Her removal due to budget cuts will harm the quality, continuity, and integrity of our education,” Pallitharayil said in the petition.
ALSO READ: University Students Stage Fresh Protests in Iran During Memorial Ceremonies
Supporters highlight Brockhaus’s clinical experience, commitment to social justice, and mentorship of students. They warn that her departure could lead to larger class sizes, heavier reliance on adjunct instructors, and gaps in course availability.
Michael Mancini, a professor of social work and researcher in integrated behavioral health, said Brockhaus’s departure would be a significant loss for the department.
“It pains me that she was selected to cut. She has a combination of practical experience and a care for social justice. She supports and mentors students and brings a light to the program,” Mancini said. “The way this decision has been handled will affect the entire university community.”
Mancini also expressed hope that student advocacy could influence university decisions, citing past examples where students successfully drove changes on campus, including the creation of a diversity, equity, and inclusion committee.
Despite her disappointment, Brockhaus expressed gratitude for the student-led campaign.
“I am so honored and proud of the advocacy of students, regardless of the outcome,” she said. “Planting seeds, even if we don’t immediately see the results, is important. Their efforts show that students have a voice, and the impact could be felt for generations.”
About The Author
