Dear colleagues:
Today, UC President Mark Yudof announced plans to begin implementing merit-based salary increases across the university system for faculty members at all levels and non-represented staff members who earn less than $200,000 per year. This action, approved by the UC Board of Regents as part of the 2011-12 budget last November, is intended to preserve the quality of the university’s programs by helping to retain faculty and staff who have demonstrated positive performance. It is the first increase of this type in four years.
The merit pool will be calculated at 3 percent of the overall pay in the eligible personnel categories, and individual increases will be based on performance and determined locally. Specific guidelines for how the merits will be implemented will be sent to campus academic personnel and human resources offices in the coming days, so you can expect to receive additional details soon.
The full announcement and additional information will be posted on the systemwide human resources and benefits website: atyourservice.ucmerced.edu.
It is very significant that President Yudof and the Board of Regents have taken this action, despite the extreme economic challenges facing the university and the state. The university clearly recognizes the critical importance of rewarding and retaining talented employees whose contributions through difficult economic times have been unwavering. While we understand the difficulty of approving even such modest raises in light of the state's ongoing budget battles, it is reassuring to know the university is determined to stand with the people who deliver UC-quality research, education and support every day.
I want to thank all of you personally for the many contributions you’ve made and the sacrifices you’ve endured during this four-year period of flat compensation. We simply could not be successful without your dedication and commitment to excellence. I am very pleased that your efforts have been recognized and rewarded within the severe constraints imposed upon the university by the current economic climate.
Sincerely,
Dorothy Leland
Chancellor
