Chancellor Sonny Perdue Poised for $50,000 Pay Raise: What This Means for the University System

Chancellor Sonny Perdue, who leads the University System of Georgia, could soon see a $50,000 salary increase, bringing his total to $572,500. The Board of Regents has moved to consider this raise, beginning a mandatory 30-day waiting period before they can officially vote.

Perdue’s response to inquiries about the raise is pending. Board Chair T. Dallas Smith emphasized that this proposal is part of a transparent review process and will be evaluated with students and public interests in mind.

At 78, Perdue was appointed by Governor Brian Kemp in 2022. He previously served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and as Governor of Georgia. In fiscal year 2024, his salary was reported at $531,900, ranking him among the highest-paid state employees.

When compared to his counterparts in neighboring states, Perdue’s pay lands in the middle tier. For instance, Sid Trant of the University of Alabama System earns $884,716 after a significant raise. Similarly, Peter Hans from the University of North Carolina System saw his salary jump from $455,000 to $600,000 this year.

Recently, the University System of Georgia has recorded impressive enrollment numbers. Reports indicate that the state’s economic impact from the system rose by 5.4% in fiscal year 2024. Graduates from the class of 2024 are projected to earn about $1.4 million more over their lifetimes compared to those without a degree. This data points to the ongoing importance of higher education in driving economic advancement.

The Board of Regents is scheduled to meet next on September 16, past the minimum waiting period, to further discuss Perdue’s salary proposal.

For context, while Perdue’s potential raise may provoke discussions about administrative salaries in education, it also raises questions about accountability in public spending. Recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics shows that overall administrative costs in higher education have been rising, often leading to public scrutiny. Many stakeholders emphasize the need for transparency and responsible budget management to ensure resources are effectively used for student success.

As debates surrounding educational funding and salaries grow, it’s essential to maintain a focus on what truly benefits students and communities.



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Sonny Perdue,University System of Georgia