California State University (CSU) trustees have approved a notable salary increase for Fresno State President Saúl Jiménez-Sandoval, raising his annual base salary by 10% from $476,015 to $523,617. This decision, made on November 19, 2023, positions Jiménez-Sandoval as the fifth-highest paid president among the 18 CSU campuses, excluding interim leaders.
In addition to the salary hike, Jiménez-Sandoval will be eligible for a new category of compensation known as “at-risk performance pay.” This incentive could potentially increase his earnings by an additional 10%, contingent on meeting specific performance goals. Notably, these funds will not come from the state general fund or student tuition but will be sourced through philanthropic contributions gathered by the CSU Chancellor’s Office.
Performance-Based Incentives for University Leaders
The introduction of at-risk performance pay aligns with a broader strategy for accountability within the CSU system. Twelve out of the eighteen university presidents, including Jiménez-Sandoval, could qualify for performance bonuses ranging from 5% to 15% of their base salaries if they successfully meet established strategic objectives. These goals will be evaluated annually by the CSU Chancellor, with the intention of promoting accountability and performance excellence.
CSU spokeswoman Amy Bentley-Smith did not offer specific details regarding the performance goals for Jiménez-Sandoval. “I don’t have specifics for Dr. Jiménez-Sandoval,” she stated in an email on Monday.
The salary and compensation recommendations received unanimous approval from CSU trustees, with the exception of Lt. Gov. Eleni Kounalakis, who voted against the measure.
Faculty Union Voices Concerns Over Salary Increases
Amidst the backdrop of rising administrative salaries, the California Faculty Association (CFA), which represents university faculty, has expressed concern over the significant pay raises granted to university presidents while faculty programs face budget cuts and layoffs. The CFA criticized the timing of these raises, particularly when many university staff members have experienced financial strain.
In response to the situation, Chancellor Mildred Garcia has announced a plan to use a $144 million zero-interest loan from the state to provide CSU employees with a one-time payment equivalent to 3% of their salaries. This decision has not appeased the faculty union, which is advocating for a more comprehensive discussion on faculty salaries at the bargaining table.
“Chancellor Garcia, let the bargaining table be the space where we discuss faculty salaries,” stated Vang Vang, CFA treasurer and Fresno State librarian, in a recent release. “Don’t cheat faculty by flattering us with a one-time compensation!”
As Fresno State’s president prepares for the upcoming fiscal changes, the implications of these decisions continue to resonate within the university community and beyond. The ongoing debate over administrative compensation versus faculty support highlights the complexities faced by educational institutions in balancing budgetary constraints with administrative needs and faculty welfare.
