Dear faculty and staff:
I hope you are enjoying the summer, whether you are off work for a few months or have something fun planned.
As we continue working on our fiscal year 2027 budget, I want to share an update regarding this year’s compensation-allocation approach and the steps we are taking to support our employees.
Given the limited funding available, we have made the decision to prioritize two key areas within our Market-Based Compensation program:
- Ensuring equity within pay ranges by bringing all eligible* staff to at least the minimum of their respective compensation ranges and faculty to the minimum floor for their respective rank.
- Providing a one-time bonus to recognize the continued dedication and contributions of our faculty and staff.
We have already implemented the first priority as part of the annual budget roll process. Adjustments were made to bring eligible employees to the minimum of their pay ranges, and leaders have been provided with communication to support those conversations.
The second priority, the one-time bonus, will occur later this year. Here are the details:
- Employees who are active on payroll as of Oct. 1, 2026, will be eligible for the one-time bonus.
- Eligible* employees will receive a one-time bonus of $500 on their Nov. 20 paycheck.
I recognize that compensation is an important part of how we value and support our staff and faculty. While this year’s funding constraints required us to make difficult decisions, our focus remains on advancing equitable pay practices and recognizing your contributions in meaningful ways. Because the one-time bonus will not be added to your base salary, we will be able to capture those same funds next fiscal year to combine with any additional funding we may receive from the state next year.
Thank you for all you do each day to support our students, our mission and one another. Your work continues to move Wichita State forward.
Sincerely,
Wichita State President Rick Muma
*Employees in the following status or division of the university are not included in the market-based compensation program: temporary positions, lecturers or visiting professors, student employees, athletic coaches and employees in the Division of Industry and Defense Programs.