Amid troubling times, there is encouraging news coming for the campus community as GHC staff and faculty get raises. State legislators and Governor Brian Kemp recently approved Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA). COLA will allow eligible GHC employees to receive an additional $5,000 towards their income.

“We are so thankful to our legislators for all they do to support Georgia Highlands College, the University System of Georgia and education in the state,” said GHC Interim President, Dana Nichols.

Eligible employees for the increase include non-academic staff and active, regular, benefits-eligible faculty members. The salary increase will be prorated based on full-time equivalency.

Employees who will not be eligible for the increase include those not receiving benefits, including temporary workers and those working less than 30 hours per week. Exceptions may occur for those eligible based on funding and unit structure.

Most pay adjustments will be complete in April as eligible employees receive up to a $3,750 supplement.

“I am so appreciative, just in time for my summer travel plans,” said GHC Veterans Affairs Coordinator, Amy Wise.

The remaining balance of up to $1,250 will be included in a regular payment schedule. Manual pay adjustments will be required in mid-year hires, job changes and leave statuses and are expected to continue into May.

The income increase has been a long time coming, as Governor Brian Kemp’s office notes that this is the first COLA in 14 years. “This investment in our faculty and staff shows a continued appreciation for the determined work it takes to give our students the high-quality education they deserve,” Nichols said.