Dear Colleagues:

 In response to questions about administrative expenses at the University of Memphis, I’m making available a report that was completed in 2011, it was requested and coordinated by the Faculty Senate. You’ll find the full report attached.  As the report details, the U of M administrative costs are right at the average for our peer institutions, i.e. 8 percent.  Of importance, though, “the University of Memphis ranked as the second lowest institutional support cost per student FTE when compared to the peer institutions at a cost of $1,677 per student FTE. Results ranged from $1,625 to $7,028 per student FTE with an average of $2,346”.  We’ll update this study and make sure we continue to track and evaluate administrative costs, alongside broader efficiency measures. 

I appreciate the excellent input and exceptional support as we continue to evaluate and implement cost saving measures.  It’s important we expend tuition and state dollars in the most effective and efficient manner possible, and that we strive to provide the best possible educational experience for our students while being attentive and responsive to issues of cost and student debt.  The challenges our students face are considerable, but by working together we can help shape a bright future for them, the University and the city of Memphis.  Go Tigers!

Here is a link to the 2011 report:

   http://www.memphis.edu/provost/pdfs/institutional_support_study_jan_2011.pdf

Best Regards, David