The University of California, Berkeley athletics department announced mass layoffs at the end of last week, suspected to impact up to 25 employees in the marketing, communications and creative services team.
According to Sports Illustrated, co-athletics directors Jenny Simon-O’Neill and Jay Larson called the move a “complete redefinition of how we operate.”
“The decision to eliminate these positions was incredibly difficult,” Simon-O’Neill and Larson wrote. “We understand the impact of this transition on the individual employees and their families. Each and every one of them has been a valued member of our team and we have nothing but appreciation for the services these colleagues have provided to Cal.”
The layoffs come as Cal Athletics created Strawberry Creek Studios, an external group that will lead the way in revenue generation, content creation and authentic storytelling. Impacted employees will be permitted to apply to newly opening positions with Strawberry Creek Studios.
The layoffs for marketing, communications and creative services will not take effect until June 2026.
Related: Louisiana-Lafayette Cuts 25% of Athletics Staff to Help Close University’s Budget Gap
At this time, Cal Athletics has not released significant details on Strawberry Creek Studios, but announcements regarding the new group are expected to be made in the coming weeks.
Cal Athletics is facing a significant financial shortfall as well, noting $24.3 million of debt after the 2024-25 fiscal year. That figure includes the $12 million annual payment allocated to the Memorial Stadium earthquake retrofit and renovation.
