I work for a major university (think 100,000 students). We recently received an email with the university explaining that they were raising tuition by 4%. Our general salary increase is 3.5%. Shouldn’t we receive a full 4%? I want to add that I am aware that I’m privileged to work in a position where we receive an annual raise. My question is more of wondering how they’re justifying 3.5% for US when THEY need 4%.
Additionally, in a recent town hall (execs and admins give a presentation on Zoom for the entire campus) and were, of course, trying to convince all of the employees that we would be poor and destitute and sick without them. The only upside of the town halls is that the employees can speak directly to the admin team and share really pointed questions/comments. This most recent one, and employee came on the call and was almost in tears.
Employee: I really appreciate the raises that we’ve gotten but inflation is still making it hard to feed my kids and pay for health care. What can you do to help employees who still can’t afford increases in rent, food, and health insurance?
Admins: Actually, we’ve internally compared salaries, and we believe we are offering fair compensation.
What the actual fuck? Can someone explain this to me like I’m 5 years old?