A Message from the Board: Update on the Pay Dispute Litigation

July 31, 2026

I am writing to update our community on the pay dispute litigation. I am pleased to report that we have settled the matter and look forward to working together over the years ahead to continue to further Vassar’s mission. We are thankful to the faculty members, who sustained their commitment to teaching, research, and service as we all worked productively toward a resolution.

The College has agreed to continue its practice of undertaking annual pay audits conducted by a third-party compensation analysis firm to assess pay equity relative to our salary policies and practices. The results will be shared annually with the Faculty Compensation Committee and the Board of Trustees. If these audits suggest that further review is warranted, it will be undertaken promptly.

Finally, I want to reaffirm the Board of Trustees’ and the College’s unwavering commitment to pay equity. Our rigorous, ongoing review of faculty evaluation and compensation practices has reinforced that commitment, strengthened our processes, and will continue to advance fairness, transparency, and institutional excellence at Vassar in the years ahead.

Sharon Davidson Chang ’84, P ’19
Chair of the Board of Trustees