WIU President Jack Thomas is encouraging eligible staff and faculty to retire early this as a result of the state budget impasse.
Those volunteering to retire on January 1, 2016 will receive a one-time payment equal to 25 percent of their annual base salary.
The WIU Director of Admissions, Andy Borst says this program will not affect the current education standards for students and very few have signed up to retire.
Those who volunteer must be at the age of 55 or have at least 30 years of service to qualify for the plan.
The one-time payment cannot be considered income for retirement benefits and will also be subject to federal and state income tax withholding.
