UtrespassM

Sat, Dec 25, 2010 : 2:49 p.m.

1. The higher the salary, the better the faculty. Yes or No? 2. The better the faculty, the better the university. Yes or No? 3. The better the university, the more the richer students. Yes or No? 4. The more the richer students, the more the tuition received. Yes or No? 5. The more the tuition received, the more higher paid faculty hired. Yes or No?

Brian

Fri, Dec 24, 2010 : 4:58 a.m.

You guys really don't know what you're talking about. Here are the reasons: #1 - Michigan is hardly a public school. They only get about 25% of their operating budget from the state (much less than almost any other state schools), therefore, they don't owe as much to the state as other state colleges do. #2 - Many of the people getting raises are people who fundraise millions of dollars for the college, quite successfully, from the alumni. #3 - This institution brings so many jobs to Ann Arbor, not just for the college itself, but also for surrounding businesses. #4 - The college would actually love to become private (believe it or not) #5 - The college is pretty much the only positive thing going for the state. They deserve quite a lot of praise (and higher salaries) for that honor. #6 - They receive more money than almost any other similar institution. I think that's enough reasons. Let me know if you need more.

Lady Audrey

Thu, Dec 23, 2010 : 3:17 p.m.

Kudos to President Coleman for holding her salary increase in line with the increases of faculty and staff. I cannot understand how she set such high salary hikes for her reporting executives however. They should be ashamed of taking such a raise when it is not available to the rank and file.

Rork Kuick

Wed, Dec 22, 2010 : 2:19 p.m.

"In 2009-2010, most staff received a lump sum amount but not an increase to their base salary." What's the source for that? Can you actually see data for that? I'm hinting that I would be surprised if there was detailed info available. The salary report link appears broken now ('file cannot be found'). Are athletic salaries not for public consumption anymore, or just not highlighted in some synopsis? If that is not public information, how was that made legal?

michigan48103

Wed, Dec 22, 2010 : 1:58 p.m.

When I wrote a comment about the Lead Telephone operator and Paging Clerk at the University of Michigan Medical Center, I wrote wrong she has been promoted to the Manager of the Department. When a Manager of Telecommunications can make over $70 Thousand per year, it sure is not a surprise that the Medical affairs vice president can make over $700 Thousand.

Above AvgCitizen

Wed, Dec 22, 2010 : 11:14 a.m.

Nauseating. I have worked with some of these so called top talent -- who supposedly deserve such ridiculous pay increases -- they don't. They are not better or brighter than those around them. They are at best, better at spinning realities, have healthier opinions of themselves and are good at pulling in arbitrary defenses (i.e. so and so somewhere else is getting xx -- so if you want to keep me, match it), of what in my mind is not defensible in the given economic climate (and still not defensible in a better economic climate based on the rhetoric they shovel to the rest of the employees of the institution). And as far as the "nerd" doing something about this... don't count on it... who do you think he worked closest with in re-spinning SPARK? (MSC and other top UofM leaders in case you were struggling.) Which had it's own interesting trajectory in pay for "leadership"... how can the head of that organization go fro 80K to 280K with a re-branding initiative? What was so distinctly different that the leadership required an additional 200k? It's greed - it's take what you can because you can -- they are protecting their own up there. Nothing has changed (regionally, institutionally, economically, etc.), to justify the salary, let alone the raises (jobs are down, output is down). Their justifications are typically sold to us based on the net benefit to all. Seriously, how much more of an appetite do you think we have for this? Get real, get over yourselves, and go somewhere else - please, that would benefit us more IMHO.

SonnyDog09

Wed, Dec 22, 2010 : 10:09 a.m.

The phrase "tone deaf" comes to mind. The University is it's own neverland, totally divorced from reality. I hope that the legislature remembers these increases when it comes time to appropriate funding for the University.

jcj

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 10:16 p.m.

I agree stunhsif! But you see my point. Neither high pay or low pay guarantee quality.

stunhsif

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 9:44 p.m.

jcj said: Kwame Kilpatrick made about $176,000 a year in base pay as mayor of Detroit John Hieftje makes about $44,000 a year as mayor of Ann Arbor Who would you rather have? None of the above, that is for certain!

jcj

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 6:29 p.m.

@MjC When you can guarantee me that paying a higher wage in any job will get me the best then get back with me. Take a look at some comparisons below. Player Base Salary Total Salary Manning, Peyton $14,000,000 $14,005,720 Brady, Tom $ 5,000,000 $ 8,007,280 Cutler, Jay $ 14,944,090 $ 22,044,090 Which quarterback is the best? Does this make Michigan's Governor the best? Michigan's new Governor will make $177,000 a year in 2010 Maine's Governor will make $70,000 a year in 2010 Kwame Kilpatrick made about $176,000 a year in base pay as mayor of Detroit John Hieftje makes about $44,000 a year as mayor of Ann Arbor Who would you rather have?

MjC

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 5:23 p.m.

jcj - why would you not want to hire the best professors to educate our children? I hold the same opinion for K-12 schools and believe the public school system needs a merit system put in place for teachers. I don't want to pay taxes for below average or even average, not when it comes to educating the young people of this state. We're not talking about Christmas gifts. jmac - read my post again, you'll see I do think the administrators are overpaid. I want those dollars for faculty and students! jcj and jmac - love our initials!

Jay Thomas

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 4:03 p.m.

I have to agree, this is a problem with the regents. Unfortunately they have all "gone native" and now identify more with the faculty and staff of the university, then us.

Donovan

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 2:22 p.m.

I think it is crazy that Ken Magee makes $182,000 a year and that no one has seen or heard from him in over a month! That is a story to work on!

Trouble

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 11:40 a.m.

" Only the little people pay taxes "... Leona Helmsly

jcj

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 9:43 a.m.

@KeepingItReal WRONG! There are equity issues all around us. And what we have been discussing are equity issues. But inequities are not always about race. I have chosen not to throw racism into this discussion because I do not think that is the issue here. Is it equitable that there are a few who get raises that are exorbitant while others not only get no raises but they are the ones asked to fund the raises for a few. That group that gets nothing includes many African Americans, Latinos, Muslims, Caucasians and many other groups.

KeepingItReal

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 9:12 a.m.

@jcj: It doesn't matter to you but it matter to me. Your response is absolutely silly. Obviously equity is an issue that you are not comfortable dealing with.

JSA

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 9:01 a.m.

I don't understand all the rancor. This is U of M. You know the ultimate institution for arrogance in the state. They don't care what anyone thinks other than those who donate money.

A2lover

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:59 a.m.

I don't know why people feel they can or should respond to some of these outrageous salary amounts, it won't do any good. The U of M is one of the most arrogant institutions around, doing whatever they want regardless of ethics, responsibility or public opinion (even though it's a public university). All complaints, concerns, outrage or requests for accountability always fall on deaf ears. Look at the RR problem, egotistical ignorance personified. So, questioning salary amounts in this time of economic strife is pointless, the U of M does what it wants to regardless.

jcj

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:40 a.m.

@MjC "it's disappointing to only have a budget for hiring average. We don't want to be average, we want to be the best. It's what our students deserve." Does your "we" include ALL of us that pay the salaries? This is the same kind of attitude most kids have at Christmas! Wow! If I had that kind of budget my kids would not have to get gifts from K-Mart! I wanted a hummer when I got my last vehicle but it was not in my budget! @KeepingItReal "Not one of those ten listed are African American, yet for all the comments to this site, no one has complained about the ethnic composition of these salaries." And I believe only one mentioned the amount of women! And no one mentioned bald men! Why didn't anyone mention no Latinos? Because that is NOT the issue here!

michigan48103

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:33 a.m.

It seems like alot of people just does not understand how it works at a University like the u of m. When a Administrator, supervisor or manager of a department either at the Medical Center or the School side, they get a credit card for going out for Lunch, buy things that their dept might need and that is not part of their salary. When a Medical Doctor makes money from a book, research, ect, they have to give the University of Michigan part of their profits and if they do not, they will be fired. It is part of their contract that they have to give back to the u of m.

jmac

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:32 a.m.

MjC: I hear you but your comments actually make the case for NOT paying top-level administrators huge salaries and/or huge salary increases. If giant chunks of the University financial resources are going to pay the salaries/increases of a few, that leaves little money for Departments to hire or retain quality faculty. Just saying...

braggslaw

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:21 a.m.

If you want the best you need to pay for the best. That is the way the world works.

MjC

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 8:13 a.m.

Personally I think many UM "administrators" are overpaid, but that's another story. On the other hand, the competition for attracting and retaining the best faculty to the UM is very real. Our department recently lost two brilliant and compassionate teachers and researchers. We couldn't match the outside offer. Their departure is a great loss to the students we bring here to educate. Sure the department can replace them - but it's a competitive academic world out there and it's disappointing to only have a budget for hiring average. We don't want to be average, we want to be the best. It's what our students deserve.

Jaime

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 7:37 a.m.

As usual executives and faculty get decent raises while staff raises don't cover the increased cost of medical contributions and parking permits.

Cash

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 6:26 a.m.

Well, it's wonderful that all of the people mentioned above not only get pay raises but also are continuing to get their nice tax cuts thanks to the Republicans in congress. Taxpayers are getting the shaft not once, but twice.

trespass

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 6:22 a.m.

"Coleman made a base pay of $553,000 in 2009-2010 and makes $570,105 this academic year, a 3 percent hike." Julianna, this is misleading because she also got $100,000/yr in added deferred compensation (money she gets paid at the end of the contract in 2014). Not only that but the UM agreed to pay her an additional amount equal to the taxes owed on the additional $100,000. Where were all you bloggers when it was time to vote for Regents? Both of the incumbent Regents were re-elected despite the fact that tuition increased by 60% during their term (three times inflation).

KeepingItReal

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 6:11 a.m.

Not one of those ten listed are African American, yet for all the comments to this site, no one has complained about the ethnic composition of these salaries.

trespass

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 5:55 a.m.

@Tom- You have to remember that the pay of doctors at UM is only for their "base pay". They also get a "clinical supplement" and an "administrative supplement" as well as other bonuses that may be more than half their pay. It looks like OSU may include total compensation since many of the "half millionares" are doctors.

braggslaw

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 2:30 a.m.

Wow the jealousy is thick.

Mick52

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 12:47 a.m.

Couple other issue that sticks in my craw about compensation at UM. I believe some of the highest paid get free parking. Or at least they pay exactly the same for parking >$500/yr as the lower paid employees. When you make over $100k, it sure is easy to pay $500 for parking buy not when you make in the $20K to $30K ranges. The defined contribution retirement plan is based on your pay scale, so if you well paid, you will be fine, but those at the lower end either may face stress in their retirement, or have to work well into their senior years. A recession like the one we are in at retirement time for many people is a disaster. Perhaps some employees, based on their low pay should have pension plans. And the health care benefits are the same for everyone, regardless of income. So again, those at the lower end of the pay scales might be paying premiums that cause them some pain while the well paid can easily afford it. I always have felt that as income goes up, these fees and premiums should increase so that those at the lower end of the pay scales can get a little relief. After July 1, 1988, if you retire before age 62, you can continue your health care plan, but you have to pay the full premiums until you turn 62, then the U will start paying their share. What is up with that? With the federal health care push, public organizations that get federal funding should have to maintain health care for retirees regardless of age. Do I think these people earn their high pay? No. I know many people who worked a career there who always agree the U is not as well run as it was during prior administrations. There is no indication any of these folks possess some unique knowledge that could not be found in people who would accept far less compensation. Do I think UM values its employees? See above.

a2citizen

Tue, Dec 21, 2010 : 12:24 a.m.

@ViSha: "If you are ever in need of seeing any of the world-renowned specialists at UM for yourself or a child, please be sure to let them know your feelings about their salary" Visha: Of the 10 U-M employees listed in the article, only two are doctors. Of those two I'll let you decide who is a world renowned specialist. And how many patients do they have time for? Actually, if you read the 70+ posts before yours, the salaries of the doctors who are actively treating patients has not been mentioned.

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:56 p.m.

@ViSha Sounds like a trick question. But seriously I have a hard time justifying any raise for public employees making over $300,000 ( picked this number somewhat arbitrarily) a year in this state in these economic times. But the old saying the rich get richer is popular because it is true. And when they are public employees their fortunes come at someones expense. @#2liberal "Clearly I deserve just as much as these conservative white males do!" Clearly you do not. How's that vote working out for you? More decaf please.

a2citizen

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:52 p.m.

@#2liberal: Two of the 10 listed are white females. I'm not sure of the ethnic makeup of the other eight, although their names appear to be male.

Dog Guy

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:46 p.m.

Let us pray that the people mentioned do not think that their work is worth so much more than other folks' work.

Speechless

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:19 p.m.

"... These people are earning their money. To make UM a desirable, world-class institute it takes talent and leadership up top...." Now, more than ever, The Big U needs strong union representation in every department. Those at the top of the hierarchy award themselves increasing riches even while unceasing austerity is demanded from the minions below. Collective bargaining is an available means to effectively redress the growing chasm of difference in U-M pay and benefits. It would also rebuke the false claim, as stated above, that the people at the top are so very, very special when compared to anyone else — such a dishonest assertion is only a modern, bureaucratic variation on the "divine right of kings" mentality. Once or twice in the last generation, a union campaign to organize a great many more U-M staff fell just short of success. Maybe, as a silver lining, big raises like these will put the next mass organizing effort over the top, finally. Rather than just complain, however justified that is, or misdirect anger and contempt toward specific persons at the top, go out instead and organize.

toofmullets

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:09 p.m.

In the spirit, here's to EMU raising their tuition by double digits next year to account for this year's 0% increase.

toofmullets

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 11:05 p.m.

Academics crack me up. They think they're so hot because they convinced three other academics they might be correct. And everyone knows a group of three or more academics can't possibly be wrong.

Hemenway

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 10:56 p.m.

Now at least I know where college tuition increases are going?

Terrin

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 10:35 p.m.

VISAa: I'd love to take advantage of some of those world class professionals at U of M. Trouble is my job lacks insurance (I have a doctorate from that institution) and seeing them would cause me to have to file bankruptcy.

David Briegel

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 10:22 p.m.

"We don't have a revenue problem, we have a spending problem"!! I agree!!!

L'chaim

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 10:11 p.m.

@dading you don't "sign up." You suck up and sell out to get paid like that.

ViSHa

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 10:02 p.m.

@stunhsif, i completely agree with you on the hospital charges, they are out of control--and being charged for everything down to a box of tissues is ridiculous. The surgeon, who had to at the very least have an undergrad degree, med school degree, residency for several years and possibly a fellowship, however, could probably go to another big name academic hospital and be paid more or go into private practice. UM is not known for keeping up with other programs in pay or benefits. People come here for UM's reputation, especially in research. I do think there are many on that list who are overcompensated (like the example you gave), but i don't see that changing any time soon.

stunhsif

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:41 p.m.

They have employees working in their HR dept making over 100k without a 4 year college degree, give me a break. ViSHa said: "If you are ever in need of seeing any of the world-renowned specialists at UM for yourself or a child, please be sure to let them know your feelings about their salary." My response is this. Two months ago my 2 year old had a 3/8 inch abdominal hernia ( basic repair which was not really necessary at this time) repaired by a pediatric surgeon. Total time spent by surgeon in surgery room 22 minutes. Said bill for surgeon $2480, said bill for anestheologist $1100, said bill for O.R. room $900.00,said bill for misc supplies $240.00 which they cannot even give me a breakdown on, said bill for step down room $480.00, said bill for another step down room around $250 (which we didn't use--we went home). Total bill for 5 hours at the hospital, just over $7400.00. My cut of this bill, around $2000, priceless!!!!!! No wonder they can give these ridiculous raises to their employees.

#2liberal

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:36 p.m.

I have a degree in women's studies, make $28,000 a year, and I'm an assistant shift supervisor at Starbucks. Clearly I deserve just as much as these conservative white males do! That is why I voted for Obama to get the rich paying their fair share and I can get more on my welfare bridge card, Thanks!

ViSHa

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:31 p.m.

@jcj, just read your last post. i do agree that some of these increases are too much (10%, 13.5%, etc...) out of curiosity, do you feel the 2% increases are also unjust?

ViSHa

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:26 p.m.

If you are ever in need of seeing any of the world-renowned specialists at UM for yourself or a child, please be sure to let them know your feelings about their salary.

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:21 p.m.

I believe I said "that it is one thing to "earn" one of these exorbitant salaries it is another to keep adding to them at the rate they are in this economic environment!" I didn't say I should set the salaries ( but I would be happy to and there would be a few less reg folks on unemployment) only that to get this kind of increase in your salary is ludicrous in this economic climate. And I do believe when it is my tax money I ought to be able to at the least voice my opinion! @UtrespassM I agree that even a salary of 2 million would not mean much compared to the loss of a loved one. But to throw that into the argument is a low blow. There are deaths every day where the family can't afford to bury their loved one.

UtrespassM

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9:07 p.m.

Actually, it is very hard to be a good-pay faculty at UM medical school. They have to pay 90% of their salaries from their own research grants which are received from NIH and some private foundations if they don't have any clinic duties and don't teach any classes. Ora Hirsch Pescovitz lost her husband recently. Does this $721,000 per year means anything to her now? It is so sad.

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 9 p.m.

@1bit "For example, the physicians on the list may generate revenue through their billings. Others, such a research scientists, have grant funding. Some have appointments at the VA and that funding isn't listed (neither are the appointments for that matter)." Oh is it supposed to make us feel better because the salaries come from a different part of OUR TAXES?. Where does the bulk of the grant funding come from? My point is it does not matter which part of my taxes the salaries come from. You would make a good shell game artist! Or physician.

zip the cat

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 8:56 p.m.

A real frigging farce

Spenman

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 8:54 p.m.

Really! A public institution supported by tax dollars dedicated to higher education that pays its athletic director more than its President. A compelling argument to privatize the University and question why athletics trumps academic leadership. Perhaps it is because the U of M institution is out to maximize its endowment (translate to profit) at the expense of the Michigan taxpayer and academics. Enrollment favors the out of state anyways. I find this truly disturbing. Privatize and end tax exemption. Regents? Anyone else?

AfterDark

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 8:39 p.m.

@DBlaine Yes, some make more money than others but at what point is enough enough? Where's the tipping point for negative societal impact? There are consequences for all actions.

DonBee

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 8:13 p.m.

@Tom - What is the link to your list of OSU salaries please. I would like to know if they are base salaries or total compensation. When I Google search I can not find your list. I can find several university salary databases like: www.collegiatetimes.com/databases/salaries/university-of-michigan-ann-arbor-2009 It shows 9 people associated with the Law School as having total compensation over $500,000.00. I note that none of the names listed above are the list of 9 are in the list above.

loves_fall

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 8:01 p.m.

Yeah, this is depressing. Meanwhile, if you want to start at the U, even with just a bachelor's degree or even for a lot of folks with MS/MA/MPH, expect to possibly make $13-$13.50 an hour to start and to have to scratch your way up if you ever want to so much as be able to rent an apartment.

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:55 p.m.

@1bit "these salaries in many cases do not come from the general fund but other sources." That is IMMATERIAL! That only allows them to spend freely in other areas. Are those other sources perhaps Grants? And where does most of the grant money come from?

Cash

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:52 p.m.

25% of general fund revenue is taxpayer money. I think we should ask for our share to be returned. I could use my portion to pay my DTE bill.

a2citizen

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:47 p.m.

@DBlaine: I think you are missing the point. True, some people make more money than others. But these people give themselves raises with yours, mine and our tax dollars. I cannot believe it's even legal.

DBlaine

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:29 p.m.

@ everybody here: Some people make more money than others. That's life. Don't like it, let's just get rid of market economics, and we can let people on a blog set everybody's salaries. Sounds good?

Soothslayer

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:16 p.m.

Nice sentiment but it was lost on everyone. Hold back one year to and make up for it like a Wall Street hedge fund the next year. Explain how these types of salaries are required and correlated to maintain the level of "world class" education offered at UM? Cut them by 80% and I bet you could still find people just as talanted and eager to fill the positions with 110% and the quality of education at the school won't suffer by 80%, 8% or at all. Michigan it's high time to cut the purse strings on UM and cast it off into privatization. With the budget shortfalls we simply can't afford to subsidize these type of spending priorities. Then they can do and pay whatever they want.

janejane

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.

Dr. Pescovitz, I am sorry that this article came out at this time. Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your remarkable husband.

AfterDark

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:13 p.m.

hope no one is wondering about that income gap in the county anymore http://www.annarbor.com/news/washtenaw-county-household-income-rises-but-so-does-percentage-of-households-living-in-poverty/

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:09 p.m.

@KeepingItReal "Until there is action" What do you propose? And your solution is?

janejane

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 7:05 p.m.

Please pay me 2 cents for my opinion, and it would be the only raise I'd get. I'm reading these salaries with a sharp stick pointed at my head. Where in the world was I when I went to college, and the placement officer said, "Well, you have 3 choices for a career... a teacher, a nurse or a secretary. But, you're getting married, so you might as well be a teacher." That was in 1971 at a Michigan university! I have struggled my whole adult life. My life-style isn't grand. In fact, it's pretty pathetic. My marriage didn't last, so, stupid me, I'm just out of luck when it comes to the stellar career...my teaching degree is pretty rusty. Oh, but, hey...I can go back now at 62 with crappy knees and no health insurance. So, I guess the smarties at the U of M and OSU really deserve those gracious wages for their awesome performances while schleps like me get to earn a really awesome salary, too. But, how come with a 10% raise I'd just get about an additional $300. Hmmmm....goll darn it. Where's that friggin' time machine? I gotta get back to the 70's, buy computer stock, become a nerd and meet Bill Gates. Yeah, that's the ticket!

michigan48103

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:54 p.m.

The lead Telephone operator at the Medical Center at the University of Michigan position pays over $70 Thousand, so to be a administrator like Ora Hirsch, she is not getting paid too much at all. Some one work how much does the regents make, I have always been told they are not paid, they do they work free to help out the University and to be called a Regent of the University of Michigan.

beaumont_slave

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:41 p.m.

amazing.. the state sends them money. they buy up property pay no taxes. they stopped subsidizing the police and fire. this is why i dont like or respect these big universities. how on earth do they sleep at night. oo right they dont worry about food on the table or paying bills. pppppfffffffffffffft.. useless

KeepingItReal

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:39 p.m.

@peacemaker: There is something that can be done about this but its been my experience that the bloggers on this site love to complain with no action or follow through. Do you think that those making these grotesque salaries give a....about what you or I think about how much money they make? Until there is action complaining will still occur. Don't bother to contact the Regents individually. They will either ignore or patronize you.

alfonso

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:33 p.m.

The base pay for docs is sometimes less than their share of profits from their clinic work (they all share in a group that rakes in the bucks) and fees for expert witness work, "kickbacks" from drug companies and fees from medical equipment manufacturers. One of the reasons prescription drugs cost an arm and a leg is because the drug companies pay out billions to medical schools, hospitals and doctors.

Brian Dye

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:28 p.m.

As long as enrollment continues to stay stable or increases -- salaries and overall expenditures will increase year over year to keep up with the demand. As long as there is financial aid available and we keep telling the younger generations that they will be doomed if they do not attend a 4 year University, this will continue. Until the student loan financing bubble bursts, this will be the norm.

a2citizen

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6:23 p.m.

Why it's even legal is what blows my mind.

Peacemaker

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 6 p.m.

How much are the Regents paid? They are the ones ressible for these grotesque salaries. I can think of no way to curb this runaway atrocity except by action of the Legislature. Hopefully the "Nerd" will have the cajones to put a stop to this travesty!

CynicA2

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:57 p.m.

Hic!... Hic!... HIC!... BUUUURRRRRPP! (oink!) GEEEEEZZ, guys. Time to back away from the table, already! And just because OSU and the rest do it to, doesn't make it desireable, or right! Welcome to the corporate university... looking more like its Fortune 500 masters, with each passing year.

peg dash fab

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:43 p.m.

PDF? What ever happened to the XLS edition?

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:41 p.m.

It makes me wonder why I have been against taxing the rich at a higher level! I might change my vote on that one!

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:38 p.m.

@Tom "UM takes such a small percentage of is budget from the State" Why would they have to when they buy up the town and pay no taxes? And little to NOTHING for the infrastructure. You miss the point that it is one thing to "earn" one of these exorbitant salaries it is another to keep adding to them at the rate they are in this economic environment! I wondered if anyone making these salaries would be willing to defend it! Now are there any that have the intestinal fortitude to admit they are one of them?

social conscience

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:24 p.m.

You people who rant against these salaries just don't understand how difficult it is to make it on these meager paychecks. I mean, do you know what it's like to have to hide this much from the IRS? We should thank these irreplaceable administrators for filling these positions which no one else can do! (This also appears to be a bad teaching moment.) Not sure I buy the "world class institute" argument. World class seems to connote acting responsibly in your community to demonstrate values globally. This is not acting responsibly. Shame on Umich Corp and its CEO Mary Sue!!!

David

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:14 p.m.

Its the Regents that control ALL UM spending and its time to start electing Regents that will address the financial concerns of the voting public (read: tuition). Look at the web sites of the candidates for election in 2010 and you'll see why the same-old/same-old keeps on happening.

Mich Res and Alum

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:12 p.m.

Also, UM has 7 people making more than $500,000. OSU has..... 20! Please, get rid of the ignorance before you all start whining and complaining. Here's OSU's half-millionaires (if you take out coaches, they have 18): E Gordon Gee, Office Of The President, $802,125 Steven Glenn Gabbe, Medicine Admin, $750,000 Carlo Maria Croce, Microbiology & Immunology, $739,500 Wiley William Souba Jr., Medicine Admin, $725,000 Eugene Dubois Smith, Athletics, $664,200 Michael A Caligiuri, Internal Medicine, $639,000 Jonathan David Hook, Chief Investment Officer, $615,000 David Edward Schuller, Shared Services, $608,000 James Patrick Tressel, Athletics, $600,000 Peter E. Geier, Shared Services, $568,128 John David Hummel, Specialty Care Network, $550,000 Ralph Sayre Augostini, Specialty Care Network, $550,000 Emile Georges Daoud, Specialty Care Network, $550,000 Steven Jack Kalbfleisch, Specialty Care Network, $550,000 Raul Weiss, Specialty Care Network, $550,000 Ehud Mendel, Specialty Care Network, $549,999 Clay Braden Marsh, Medicine Admin, $525,000 Thad Michael Matta, Athletics, $525,000 Joseph A Alutto, Academic Affairs Admin, $517,500 Clara Derber Bloomfield, Internal Medicine, $513,228

YpsiGreen

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:04 p.m.

"But this year,Lundberg took a cut to base pay to $575,000." Oooh. Ouch. Gee I hope that doesn't negatively impact his lifestyle.

Mich Res and Alum

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 5:04 p.m.

It's just like the AA.com commentors to whine and complain about "their tax dollars" going to UM. UM takes such a small percentage of is budget from the State and yet it employs tens of thousands. The State is constantly lowering the amount of money it gives to UM, yet UM still admits the same percentage of in-State students. Without UM Michigan would be without a world-class institute. These people are earning their money. To make UM a desirable, world-class institute it takes talent and leadership up top. Just because your ignorance shields you from their many successes doesn't mean they don't deserve their salaries.

nekm1

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 4:54 p.m.

Shame on all of you...this is a PUBLIC University. This is why people think the entire Michigan University system is all screwed up...and the kids suffer again.

ViSHa

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 4:54 p.m.

Any OR nurses out there feel your job during an operation is as valuable as the janitor cleaning up afterwards? just curious.

David

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 4:41 p.m.

I remember the good old days when the highest UM salary was usually reserved for Dr. Mark Orringer, Chief of Thoracic Surgery--a true medical pioneer. Priorities have changed.

Jay Thomas

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 4:27 p.m.

Which just goes to show that any "pay freeze" is just window dressing for a gullible public (to be more than made up for later). :| Once again, the federal government says there was no inflation this year (freezing social security benefits) and yet a public institution cries poverty. The average Michigander has certainly not been getting 4% increases every year. Must be nice to be so PRIVILEGED.

Haran Rashes

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 4:27 p.m.

Does EMU compile and make public a comparable list? If so, it would be interesting to compare similar positions, especially on the administrative level.

leaguebus

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:52 p.m.

This is great, the U is lopping off $100M from the budget this year, but raising the people that least need more money by 10%. Shame on you.

DonBee

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:40 p.m.

Obviously the recession that hit the rest of the State of Michigan has missed the University of Michigan executives completely. It is good to be insulated from the real world.

michigan48103

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:25 p.m.

Wow that is interesting how much people get paid and without M.D. after their name. It is no wonder why Ora came to Ann Arbor and her Husand did not, I am sure she made more money.

Forever27

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:24 p.m.

The raises that these directors/execs get from year to year are more than double what most people get as their whole salary. What kind of message does that send to your employees? When a department director makes nearly $200,000 a year and the people working for them make less than $30,000; who do you think is really in need of a raise? I doubt those directors/execs have any problems with their heat getting shut off. But by all means, lets give them ridiculous raises every year, they deserve it.

jmac

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:23 p.m.

"Lean thinking" is a mantra we hear every day in the Health System. It should start at the top. No idea how these salaries stack up to peer - and I mean public peer - institutions but that would be nice to know (subject for another article)? That would help put this into perspective. Also...you would like to believe that people are paid what they're 'worth' (job-wise) but looking at some of these salaries that is hard to believe. You can't tell me that the OR nurse is somehow less valuable than the doc doing the operation or the janitor who cleans up afterwards. Levels of education and expertise alone don't justify the huge salary gaps that are evident in the Health System which is where we see some of the biggest salaries at Michigan. We could get into a whole discussion of what drives salaries in the medical profession but that is also a topic for another article...

djm12652

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:22 p.m.

Now if these high paid execs would earn their pay and teach their "customers" how to act like responsible human beings, not the entitled twits the majority of them behave as.

Patti Smith

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:22 p.m.

CLX, I agree with you. I am so sick of hearing "We have to have big salaries to attract the best candidates!!1!!11!" I rarely hear that about *my* job (public school special ed teacher). Although I do happen to think I'm the best candidate for my job :) :)

grye

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:21 p.m.

I normally would not critize someone's salary since many who make a rather high wage will actually deserve it (sports figures excluded). However this is a publically funded institution and such high salaries and raises that area not tied to any tangible results is a complete waste of my tax dollars. These raises are more than what many earn over a year. Did they really need that much more money? I so, maybe they are living beyond their means.

SillyTree

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:19 p.m.

It's good work when you can get it.

stunhsif

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:03 p.m.

Disgusting!

jcj

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 3:01 p.m.

I challenge anyone at the U of M that got more than a cost of living allowance like social security to come forward and defend their raise! Oh wait a minute there was NO COLA for social security recipients! What a bunch of hypocrites!

CLX

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:55 p.m.

John, I don't think that would help. UofM would just take it out on the people making less than 50, like it always does. Like many businesses - and yes, it is a business - it has bought into the belief that it will only attract the right people with these massive salaries. Wall street said the same thing. Have these folks at the top really done such a great job? Are there performance mechanisms in place to prove that? Or do the rich continue to justify their salaries by telling everyone that they simply must receive them?

Forever27

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:51 p.m.

There are about half as many job openings at the university as there was a year ago and the people who make the lowest get the smallest raises every time (if they get one at all). There's no difference between the university and the corporate world when it comes to the top wage earners keeping the money for themselves. meanwhile many families have cut back on their spending because there isn't enough money coming in to feed them, let alone enjoy the holidays remotely close to the way these execs will be able to.

dading dont delete me bro

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:47 p.m.

i'll forgo a rai$e this year if i can get double digits next year. where do i $ign up?

Useless

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:46 p.m.

The link to the "annual salary list today" takes you to the annarbor.com admin panel... probably should fix that.

John of Saline

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:34 p.m.

The Legislature could send a message by passing a budget allocation for U of M, then reducing it by exactly the amount of these pay raises.

David

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:30 p.m.

According the the UM Salary Search (http://www.umsalary.info)and the UM Salary Supplement (http://data.michigandaily.com/tmdsal), since 2002 the $100,000+ salaries at the UM have increased, as a whole, at a rate of over 4% PER YEAR. Guess who authorizes salary increases at that level?...right.

Ben

Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 2:23 p.m.

"Ora Hirsch Pescovitz, the University of Michigan Health System's executive vice president for medical affairs, again makes the top university base pay at $721,000 per year, an increase of 3 percent over his base pay in 2009-2010." That should be "her base pay"...