KBIA Local
(2009-05-21)
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University officials say the 22 job cuts will save the university more than $2 million, once you add up the salaries, benefits and operating expenses. The money will then be funneled to what UM System Human Resources Vice President Betsy Rodriguez calls strategic priorities. Rodriguez didn't offer any specifics, but did say it would fund initiatives like economic development and distance learning.
Twenty-two jobs have been cut from the System this year. Fifteen were announced Thursday and 7 were lost in March from University of Missouri Press. The most recent job cuts are UM System positions located in Columbia.
Rodriguez says some of the affected employees have worked with the system for a short period and others have been employed for many years.
"So it's all administrative positions and really covers the gamut from office support positions through high level executive positions."
One high level position includes UM System Executive Vice President Gordon Lamb's, who retired in March. His position will not be filled.
As of Thursday afternoon, most, but not all, laid-off staff had been notified.
Rodriguez says there will be some transition assistance for laid-off employees.
"Essentially what that gives employees is some transition salary and some access to benefits. It's commensurate with how many years of service of they have with the university. So, the longer they've been here, the longer those benefits would continue."
Rodriguez says UM System officials will continue to evaluate the best way to do business and deliver services. She says the option of furloughs is off the table for this fiscal year, but is possible in the future. UM System President Gary Forsee would need to go back to the Board next fiscal year to get authority to instate furloughs. A system-wide hiring freeze remains in effect.
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