University of Missouri slows hiring and pay raises in response to COVID-19 pandemic

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The University of Missouri System has stopped some hiring and paused merit pay raises to brace for financial impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The system announced the directives in an email to employees from President Mun Choi on Friday.

"As we continue to work through many practical challenges of running the university during this period, we strive to make the best decisions possible within an ever-changing situation," Choi wrote. "During this uncertain time, we also must be good fiscal stewards."

Positions that are currently posted will be postponed and candidates will be notified that the position will not be filled at this time, according to a web page the system set up to explain the changes.

UM System spokesman Christian Basi said some new hires will be possible but will require special approval.

Non-essential capital and real estate spending will also be frozen, the system says. Travel, food purchases and execution of contracts will be limited.

Choi said the need to support high-quality education and recruitment and retention of students is part of what drove the decisions. The university's public response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the need to support revenue-generating activities were also factors, he said.

The university system has shut down its four campuses and offices to all but essential workers. Classes are being conducted remotely through the end of the semester.