Budget woes.

The same problem that educators say has plagued Haskell Indian Nations University for a while arose again Friday as retiring president Karen Swisher led one of her final Board of Regents meetings.

“We’re constantly trying to figure out how to make the best use of limited resources,” said Venida Chenault, vice president for academic affairs.

Swisher, who retires at the end of this year, outlined Haskell’s successes and challenges.

Swisher pointed to the university’s sticking to a strategic plan it set in 2003 and its accreditation in 2005 as highlights. But the challenge ahead will be budgeting and allocating resources in accordance with the strategic plan, she said.

“In spite of all the challenges we face, I think we are fulfilling our mission and working toward our vision,” Swisher said.

Sharon Atkinson, a math instructor and president of Haskell’s Faculty Senate, said the school needs to revive its summer school program, which was cut because of budgetary constraints.

Atkinson told the board some faculty perceive that the school cut the summer program while putting money into administrative personnel. Atkinson said the budget process isn’t always clear and some believe there should be more faculty input.

“Sometimes we are concerned about how the budget is administered,” she said.

Swisher said Atkinson’s statements represented an opinion.

“I can’t really say much more about it,” she said.

Swisher said Haskell has applicants to replace her.

The search process will involve those from the university and the community, but Swisher said the process has only been outlined in draft form and details would be available soon.