In a year when furloughs, tuition increases and an overwhelming demand for greater transparency have dominated university discussions, knowing exactly how state taxes and tuition dollars are being spent seems to be of utmost importance. Transparency is more than a privilege — it’s a right.
It is in this spirit that The Diamondback continues to publish an extensive annual list of all university faculty and staff members’ salaries, despite criticism. As a public institution, funded with state money, access to the information published in this guide is the right of every student and every Maryland taxpayer. Here, we present that information as raw data, allowing you to draw your own conclusions.
This academic year, the university had a $1.6 billion dollar budget, $420 million of which came from state appropriations. While this money is used to mow the lawn on McKeldin Mall and pay for academic journal subscriptions in the libraries, a large chunk of it goes toward funding labor costs.
Every university employee, from university President Dan Mote, who made $464,600 last year, to the lowest paid employee listed — a postdoctoral research associate who was only paid $334.27 — is essential to understanding how university resources are allocated. With understanding comes the ability to hold officials accountable for how they’re spending your money.
The following guide is divided by department, then by position and last name, alphabetically. Use it to look up your professors, coworkers, favorite (or least favorite) administrators. Use it to see how your or your family’s tuition money or tax dollars are being spent. Use it to educate yourself.
Why? Because it’s your right to know.
— Marissa Lang
Editor in chief-elect
