HIRING FREEZE ANNOUNCED AT OU

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8-11-08

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: OU Public Affairs, (405) 325-1701

NORMAN – University of Oklahoma President David L. Boren announced a hiring freeze will be put in place immediately on all University campuses. Boren said, “With the economic uncertainty faced by our nation and the likely shortage of funds available to the next legislature for appropriation, it is prudent for me to take action now. By imposing a freeze on new hiring now, we can hopefully hold down future increases in student tuition and fees and protect jobs of those already employed by the University.”

Under the policy, the President may grant special exemptions to the policy if they are recommended by the appropriate directors, deans, vice presidents, and provosts. Boren said that he expected to hold exemptions to a very small number limited to situations that affect university safety and positions which are absolutely essential for student education.

“By implementing a freeze now, I hope that we can avoid damaging steps in the future if the economic situation does not improve,” Boren said. “While we all hope that the economy and the State’s revenue base will stabilize, we must be prepared if it does not.”