The effects of COVID-19 are significant and widespread. At Seattle U we have joined together to promote the health, safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff, while positioning the university to fulfill its core educational mission over the short and long term. The highest priority for our campus community and those being considered in the hiring process is to focus on caring for themselves, their families and their communities. At the same time, the university must continue to take action, adapt and make essential adjustments to address the financial impacts resulting from increased costs and significant reductions in revenue brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Effective immediately and until further notice, the university will suspend any new staff hiring and all faculty hires must be approved by the Provost. This hiring suspension extends to all staff positions and includes seasonal/intermittent hiring and other temporary hiring through a staffing agency. Exceptions to staff hiring will only be made for a critical need and must have written approval of the Provost, Executive Vice President or Chief Financial Officer. A message to supervisors was sent out earlier today.