Programs Over Profit The University of Vermont s decision to cut at least 23 programs of study due to low enrollment is troubling [Off Message: UVM Announces Plan to Eliminate More Than Two Dozen Academic Programs, December 2]. Administrators and trustees of public universities should go beyond enrollment numbers and consider how small programs support the public interest and enrich the region. For example, UVM s decision to cut the Historic Preservation master s program because it has averaged fewer than five students per year is folly: Isn t the continued preservation of Vermont s historic buildings and artifacts in the public interest? Niche programs such as geology, languages and culture also on the chopping block shouldn t be penalized for being unable to increase enrollment. Assuming that programs have value only if they can recruit more students inappropriately attaches a private corporate model to a public institution.