Dear Fellow Monarchs:
At ±¬ÁϹÏ, we recognize that our greatest strength is our people. Your daily contributions and continual efforts are at the heart of our worthwhile mission and central to our growing success. As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting employee well-being and ensuring ±¬ÁÏ¹Ï remains a competitive and rewarding place to work, the institution conducted a comprehensive salary study, the first of its kind in our history.
To complete this important work, we partnered with The Segal Group, a nationally recognized human resources consulting firm in higher education. The study reviewed compensation data for teaching and research (T/R) faculty, administrative and professional (A/P) faculty, and classified staff. The study focused solely on compensation practices. As a result, no jobs were added, eliminated, or reduced, and no individual salaries were decreased.
Based on the study’s findings, T/R and A/P faculty and classified staff with salaries below the competitive range received compensation increases. T/R faculty increases were effective on July 25, 2025, while A/P faculty and classified staff increases were effective on September 25, 2025. With the infusion of an additional $1.9 million in annual funding across a total of 318 employees through salary adjustments to address market competitiveness, the first phase is now complete. It is anticipated that additional phases will occur with no defined timeline for subsequent implementation.
While not every position was directly impacted as part of the first phase, the study has provided a strong foundation to guide future decisions, including continued attention to salary equity and compression. This work ensures that we are properly positioned to move forward thoughtfully and transparently as the University continues to reinforce our long-standing commitment to both competitiveness and fairness across all employee groups. To provide additional clarity on the purpose, process, and outcomes, Frequently Asked Questions are available at /sites/default/files/2025/documents/staff-compensation-study-faqs.pdf.
Please join me in expressing both appreciation and gratitude to the outstanding team, comprised of professionals across the Division of Talent Management and Culture, the Division of Finance, and the Division of Academic Affairs, as well as our partners at The Segal Group, for their dedication and expertise throughout this process. And, most importantly, thank you for your continued commitment to ±¬ÁϹÏ. Each of you plays a vital role in strengthening our community, enriching the lives of our students, and advancing our mission!
With Monarch Pride,
Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.
President
