Re: Voluntary Separation Program
To: All staff
January 7, 2021
Dear Campus Colleagues,
As part of UC Merced’s efforts to reduce costs because of financial shortfalls, the university is offering a Voluntary Separation Program for eligible employees.
The program offers eligible non-represented employees an opportunity to volunteer to be considered for separation. Under the program’s guidelines, if an employee’s application is accepted, the employee will receive a severance payment based on their classification and length of service with the university.
Staff who separate from UC Merced under this program will agree not to seek re-employment at any University of California location for three years. If employees return to any UC location within the three-year period, they will be required to repay some portion of the severance payment.
The application period for the program opens Monday, Jan. 11, and closes Friday, Feb. 5. Not every UC Merced employee is eligible. Please read the program’s details to determine if you qualify. Participation by represented employees is subject to collective bargaining.
All decisions about voluntary separation requests will be made by March 1, and separations will take effect April 30. Vice Chancellors and the Provost will make the final decision about whether to accept an application, based on operational needs of the school or department.
Potential applicants to the Voluntary Separation Program should read its details before making a decision. There is important information about eligibility, exceptions and deadlines.
Be well and take care,
Nicole Pollack
Chief Human Resources Officer and Assistant Vice Chancellor
