Students and teachers angry over University of Arizona $240 million budget shortfall

PHOENIX — Students and faculty members harshly criticized University of Arizona President Robert C. Robbins on Thursday over a $240 million budget shortfall that has sparked suggestions for cuts to student scholarships and instructor salaries. “The university has made it loud and clear that they do not care about us.” Phyllis Brodsky, of the university’s office of instruction and assessment, told Robbins that news of the shortfall has created uncertainty as she prepares to retire next year. “Now do yours!” Robbins did not directly address the criticism during the meeting but acknowledged that the university faces financial difficulties. The meeting Thursday also featured a presentation by Robbins on key investments the university has made over the past year in research and other areas, using money drawn from the school’s reserves.