Trinity TUday

Merit Increase Pool for Staff, Faculty

Dear Colleagues,

As we finalize next year’s university operating budget, I am writing to share how the budget will support compensation increases while balancing other financial needs and pressures.

Our people are our most valuable resource, and I am pleased to announce that next year’s budget currently includes a 3% merit increase pool for eligible staff and faculty. This investment will result in nearly $3 million in additional compensation for existing employees next year, and it shows our commitment to recognizing employee contributions and performance. As in past years, individual salary increases will be applied based on individual performance as determined by divisional leaders. Therefore, some employees may receive more than 3% while others may receive less.

In determining the merit pool amount, we carefully consider market trends and review multiple reliable sources within higher education and beyond to ensure faculty and staff compensation remains competitive. Consistent with this approach, members of the Executive Leadership Team will be eligible for merit increases from a separate, smaller pool of 2%, rather than the 3% pool applicable to faculty and staff.

The university’s ability to invest in compensation while continuing to fund other institutional priorities is made possible by strong enrollment and the long-term strength of our endowment. Thanks to a combination of philanthropy and the university’s budgetary choices, Trinity will also continue to offer robust student financial aid to students who have earned and qualify for it.

The FY27 budget will be reviewed by the Board of Trustees later this month; if approved, the increases will take effect June 1. If you have questions, please reach out to Human Resources at @email or 210-999-7507.

Speaking on behalf of the university’s leadership, we all appreciate your ongoing dedication to making Trinity University one of the best liberal arts and sciences universities in the nation.

Vanessa B. Beasley
President