Chancellor Notifies University Employees of Governor's Lifting of Salary Freeze

Dear Colleagues of the U of A:

I am extremely pleased to confirm that Governor Mike Beebe today announced a reinstatement of career-service recognitions and merit pay for non-classified employees, including those university faculty and staff members who were affected by the freeze.

After consulting with University of Arkansas System President B. Alan Sugg, we will process the U of A payroll on December 9, with employee earnings statements available on December 10. On December 15, we will pay employees' retroactive career service payments and non-classified merit adjustments covering what would have been earned between July and November. Checks and direct deposits will be effective on that date. New salary adjustments will be effective December 1 and will be reflected in employees' December 23 paycheck.

This is wonderful news. We are very grateful to Governor Beebe for this action. We recognize his previously expressed concerns--as well as those of legislators and taxpayers--about the state's financial condition, and respect his caution. Please accept my thanks for your patience and understanding during the uncertainty of the last few months. We very much depend on your hard work and dedication to the state. Individually and collectively, you are indispensible to fulfilling the U of A's multifaceted mission.

I very much hope this news will make your winter holidays a little brighter.

G. David Gearhart

Chancellor

University of Arkansas