President's Message: 2025-2026 Faculty Salary Increases

Dear FSU Faculty,

In recognition of the outstanding work of our faculty, Florida State University will implement faculty salary increases for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Your influence reaches far beyond the classroom and lab — it shapes the student experience, drives innovation and strengthens our academic reputation. These increases are a meaningful acknowledgment of your contributions and the value you bring to our university community.

As a reflection of our commitment to rewarding faculty, the university is providing up to a 2.25% salary increase for eligible faculty. This consists of a 1.75% performance increase and a 0.5% departmental merit pool. The performance increase will take effect October 10 and appear in the October 31 paycheck. The departmental merit pool will be distributed, effective November 7, and reflected on the November 26 paycheck.

Eligible faculty members will also receive a one-time, non-recurring $1,000 performance-based bonus. The bonus will be effective November 21 and included in the December 12 paycheck. 

These increases are in addition to our promotional, sustained performance, and post-tenure review increases. Promotional increases took effect August 7 and were reflected in the August 22 paycheck. Sustained performance and post-tenure review increases are effective September 12 and will appear in the October 3 paycheck.

As always, increases for faculty represented by a bargaining unit will be implemented according to their respective bargaining agreement. The Office of Human Resources will send a separate communication to Deans, Directors, and Department Heads addressing departmental funding sources and other requirements.

Thank you for the passion and purpose you bring to your work. Your dedication and achievements continue to set us apart, and it’s because of your efforts that we consistently rise to meet new challenges and opportunities. Florida State’s continued success is built on the strength of its faculty, and this increase is one way we reaffirm our commitment to supporting you.

I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the year ahead.

Sincerely,
Richard McCullough
President, Florida State University