July 10, 2024

Dear colleagues:

This year we will have a 2% merit-based salary program across the University of Illinois System.

Our faculty and staff are the drivers of the excellence we deliver to students, their families and the people of Illinois. This year’s salary program, crafted in consultation with system and university leadership, remains an important priority, even as we weigh many competing financial demands and budgetary constraints.

It is important to note that 2% percent will be the average increase for each unit. As a merit-based program, there will be variation in individual salary increases based on individual performance. Some employees may receive a percentage increase higher than 2% while others may receive one that is lower.

Additionally, each of our three universities will implement its own guidelines to address needs specific to each campus such as compression, market, equity, and retention (CMER).

Pay adjustments for faculty and staff in bargaining units will be determined by negotiations with the bargaining representative and/or applicable contract settlements and are not subject to unilateral adjustments unless authorized or permitted pursuant to the collective bargaining process.

In the coming weeks, the three universities will provide additional information on the details of the salary program.

Thank you for the many ways that you deliver excellence across the University of Illinois System and our world-class universities, setting the standard for public higher education and reflecting an enduring commitment to the public good. As always, we remain deeply grateful for your dedication, loyalty and innovative spirit.

Sincerely,

Tim Killeen
President
University of Illinois System