MC experiences unprecedented turnover rate

Maryville College is currently grappling with an increasing turnover rate among its faculty and staff. Over the past few months, a growing number of employees have left their positions, whether it be of their own volition or being let go by the college. Many former faculty members have cited concerns about the college’s work environment, compensation and administrative decisions as reasons for their leaving.

One of the key factors contributing to this is salary stagnation, especially when compared to similar institutions. The average faculty salary at Maryville College is around $59,893, which has decreased slightly by 0.57% from the previous year. Non-instructional staff have seen a slight increase in their salaries, but many still find wages insufficient compared to the rising cost of living in the region. 

Other former employees of Maryville College not only see the significant compensation stagnation, but also the lack of solid communication and feedback reception as the reason for leaving.

“There is a huge issue with faculty pay at the institution, but that was not why I left,” said Kristin Riggsbee, formerly of the Division of Health Sciences and Outdoor Studies. “I felt that my situation and feedback was not really heard by the administration when I left; it was simply chalked up to finding a better position for me. To be honest, I never wanted to leave my position there and never saw myself leaving my students.”

Another potential issue influencing turnover is the stress related to the college’s financial difficulties. Enrollment numbers have decreased, resulting in tighter budgets and, in some cases, the reduction of faculty and staff positions. Fewer resources and increased workloads may be causing burnout, prompting some to seek opportunities elsewhere.

“There were multiple factors, but lack of resources and capacity for students were major concerns,” said Riggsbee when asked about the primary factors that led to her departure from Maryville College. “We were a growing division, which was fantastic. However, having some of the highest advising loads on campus can wear down any faculty member over time. We were also still developing new courses and program offerings while carrying the highest advising and thesis loads on campus.”

Riggsbee went on to comment on how the COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected her time at Maryville College. 

“There were some expectations about attending certain events during off-times, such as homecoming and graduation,” she said. “Students also required a bit more from me as they were struggling during the pandemic and post-pandemic world. It became physically, emotionally, and mentally exhausting.”

“My philosophy is that a learning environment should be more student oriented and personal,” said on-board staff member and Trio advisor Walter Grubb when asked about the work environment. “You can’t achieve that if the instructors and teachers feel like they aren’t being heard or that they can’t influence the learning environment. Communication is key.”

The leadership at Maryville College has been working to address these challenges by bringing in new administration, such as the recent appointment of Dr. Benjamin Stubbs as the Vice President and Dean of Students. This change could help foster a better environment for the faculty and staff, potentially reducing turnover in the long run​.

The institution faces a difficult balancing act between maintaining financial stability and supporting its workforce, but improvements in salary competitiveness and institutional culture could be key to stemming the tide of turnover.