Judicial college lays off staff

Six staff member were laid off by the National Judicial College in Reno on Friday to correct budget shortfalls and funding reductions.

The half-dozen employees represent 8.5 percent of the college's staff and were given 30-day severance packages.

"We were faced with a difficult decision to let staff go, but the reductions were needed to balance our budget," said college President William F. Dressel. "Although budget cutbacks are a reality nationwide, the college views this economic impact as an opportunity to rebuild and retool its programs to better serve the changing needs of the nation's judiciary."

Cuts were needed to offset the recent economic downturn. As a result of Sept. 11, the judges who attend the college, are facing tighter budgets, limitations on out-of-state travel and reduced air-carrier service to and from major airports including Reno.

The college was founded in 1963 and celebrates its 40th year of operation in 2003. It has provided educational and professional development opportunities to more than 68,000 judges worldwide. The college is located on the campus of the University of Nevada, Reno.