Frequently Asked Questions
General
Is the University in danger of closing?
No. We are taking every step possible to ensure that we emerge stronger and better prepared as an institution. We will continue to provide the educational opportunities and support that will allow us to continue to meet the needs of the students and the community we serve. How we accomplish this certainly will look different.
What was the outcome of the Huron Engagement?
The Huron Consulting Group identified 32 opportunities for the University to pursue, some immediate opportunities to help mitigate the FY24 deficit, and others focus on a longer-term strategy. The leadership team will work to prioritize these opportunities and make decisions about next steps. View the report summary.
Workforce Reduction
When will I know if I am being laid off? What is the process used to determine lay-offs?
UW-Parkside is working to gather information and input from university leaders and shared governance to inform the budget and workforce reduction process. This will require us to look at every position and evaluate the needs in every area.
How many people are being laid off?
Layoff totals will be determined through the budget and workforce reduction process. The University is facing an approximate deficit of $5 million will institute budget cuts, VSIPS, and layoffs to achieve a balanced budget.
Will some departments and units have more reductions than others, or is this an across the board layoff?
This is not an across the board layoff and impacts on departments, units, colleges, and divisions have not yet been determined. We will know more by mid to late December.
What are the policies that govern layoff?
There are different rules for each employment type. Additional information
Voluntary Separation Incentive Program
If I am approved for the VSIP and I decide not to retire, can I be laid off?
Yes. It is possible that a person who does not accept a VSIP can be laid off.
If I am not approved for the VSIP, can I be laid off?
If we do not approve a VSIP is because we need the position. However, there is no guarantee that in the future the position will not be impacted. We are basing decisions on what we know today.
Furloughs
Can I still work on a day that has been designated as a furlough day?
No, an employee may not work on a day that is intended for furlough.
How will New Hires be affected if starting after the Furlough is administered?
They may receive a furlough notification letter based on operational and financial considerations.
Am I still eligible to use the Employee Assistance Program if I am on furlough?
Yes, we understand these are difficult times and encourage employees to utilize this program. More information can be found online – Username: SOWI.
Can an employee whom is currently on FMLA be furloughed?
Yes, furlough hours would not count towards the annual FMLA bank.
Can employees on “intermittent furlough” use vacation as normal planned vacation? (not to cover furlough time)
Yes, paid leave can be used with supervisor approval for all non-furlough days.
How do I enter furlough time on my timesheet?
Please see the official guidelines from UW System's webpage: