New Michigan State diversity director gets $315k salary, $700/month car allowance

Janelle James:

His 13-page contract states that Bennett’s initial salary rate is $315,000 and will be evaluated every year based on merit. However, all executive managers including the CDO will undergo a temporary salary reduction because of the financial strain put on the university due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Bennett’s salary will be $296,100, a 6% decrease, during the period of Dec. 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021. 

The CDO is an “at will” employee, meaning that Bennett works at the service of President Samuel L. Stanley Jr. and is subject to be removed without notice or reason. The president will regularly evaluate Bennett. 

The contract also explains the responsibilities of the CDO including leading the Office for Inclusion and Intercultural Initiatives and working with the university to develop and implement a plan for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). 

The CDO will work with other offices including academic affairs, student affairs, human resources, residential and hospitality service and more. The CDO will be doing work like designing delivery education and training programs, research on DEI-related topics, monitoring hiring processes and more. 

More, here.