Wright State announces involuntary position eliminations

Wright State University President Sue Edwards shared the following message June 15:

Dear Campus Community,

As you are all aware the current COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated Wright State University’s underlying financial condition. We know that tuition and state support, our largest revenue sources, will be significantly reduced this coming year. I have been sharing with you in my twice weekly Webex calls that the pandemic has accelerated the timeframe around which we must resize the university so we can operate within the revenue generated by an enrollment of 10,000 students and ultimately ensure that we continue to serve the needs of our region.

Reorganizational efforts are underway, and all departments, colleges, and units are impacted. A total of 35 faculty elected to participate in the Faculty Retirement Incentive Program and will separate from Wright State University over the next couple of months. We have over 430 employees voluntarily reducing their appointments and participating in the Shared Work Ohio program to further support our financial situation. As we look forward, we must now turn to some of the most difficult decisions.

It is with a heavy heart that I announce, beginning today, we will commence notification of involuntary position eliminations. This will impact approximately 50 occupied positions on our campuses. Some will not have contracts renewed, some are retiring, while others will be provided notice and/or other applicable options. Human Resources has prepared separation materials and will accompany university supervisors while they hold notification meetings with impacted employees. Regrettably, due to the current limitations of COVID-19 safety precautions, these meetings will be held via Webex. However, employees will be provided materials in both an electronic format as well as mailed paper copies of the materials to their homes.

We are committed to concluding meetings no later than Thursday, June 18. As a reminder, the employees holding these positions remain part of the Raider and Laker Families through their notice period (between four to 24 weeks). Take your lead from them, but please show your support during this difficult time.

The university will provide outplacement support for these employees through LHH. Services will include career coaching, resume writing assistance, interview preparation, and career learning courses. Further, we will continue to provide access to our tuition remission benefits for two years post-employment for both employees and their dependents.

Our impacted employees, as well as all employees of the university, will continue to have access to our Employee Assistance Program provider, Impact Solutions, as a resource, and support is available 24/7.

I recognize these are difficult and uncertain times for all of the Wright State Family. We will continue to make every effort to move through these processes as diligently and compassionately as possible, ensuring that focus remains on the respectful treatment of our employees.

Best wishes,

Sue