Provost. Chancellor letter to faculty and staff regarding UW System’s management of furloughs
Note: this message was sent to UW-Green Bay faculty and staff on Friday, April 17, 2020 regarding UW System releasing furlough authority to chancellors…
Dear UW-Green Bay faculty and staff,
The UW System continues to manage the health, safety and financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on its organizations. Like all universities, the pandemic and subsequent responses have affected operations of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and we are expecting a significant financial impact as a result.
Late yesterday, we were notified that the Board of Regents approved a policy providing UW System institution chancellors with the flexibility to make necessary decisions to meet their own financial challenges. This includes the furlough of employees or other workforce cost reductions, as deemed necessary. A furlough is a mandatory, unpaid leave of absence with employees retaining their benefits and position. FAQs about the new policy are available.
Our leadership team is studying the policy and working with campus governance groups to assess our financial position and develop a plan that protects the long term health of our institution. We are committed to conducting due diligence, taking the time needed to consider all options in order to make the best decision for the faculty, staff and students and the future of our university. A campus-specific announcement on furloughs or layoffs at UW-Green Bay will be shared by Friday, April 24.
It was also announced yesterday by Governor Evers that the Safer at Home Order for Wisconsin has been extended through May 26. As a result, UW-Green Bay will remain closed through May 31.
We know this continues to be a difficult time for the world, our university, and for all of us working in higher education. Like all challenges we face, we will get through this. Thank you for your understanding while we take the time to make the best decisions possible for our university.
Please continue to stay safe, stay home and stay informed.
Sheryl Van Gruensven
Interim Chancellor
Michael Alexander|
Provost & Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs
Chancellor-elect
