Under a systemwide intermittent furlough policy being considered, employees at the University of Wisconsin-Superior would forfeit one paid day per two-week pay period beginning July 1 in an effort to face fiscal challenges posed by COVID-19.
The University of Wisconsin System Board has authorized the UW system to implement a furlough policy. The furloughs are essentially mandatory unpaid time off that allows employees to keep their jobs and benefits, according to a news release from UWS.
Employees were also given the option to opt into a voluntary furlough beginning immediately and lasting through June. Human resources is still working out how employees can opt in to voluntary furloughs, Jordan Milan, director of strategic communications and special assistant to the chancellor, told the News Tribune.
The voluntary furlough days could be served intermittently or consecutively.
Revenue losses faced by UWS and the UW System include anticipated changes in enrollment as well as housing, dining and other fee refunds.
ADVERTISEMENT
UWS is anticipating a revenue loss of $1.3 million for the spring semester. The actual amount will be known after all refunds are processed, Milan said.
UWS estimates the intermittent furloughs could save the campus approximately $1 million.
Chancellor Renée Wachter said that while she appreciates the efforts and dedication from faculty and staff, actions must be taken now.
“We want to be cautious not knowing what these next few months may hold,” Wachter said. “Our overarching goals are to continue to serve our students in the best possible way and to do all that we can to protect our campus community. We will continue to monitor the situation carefully and make adjustments as needed.”
UWS will finalize its plans for furloughs in the coming weeks.
This story was updated a t 2:03 p.m. April 22 to further clarify that the furlough policy is still being considered. It was originally posted at 9:11 a.m. April 22.
