In a memo to faculty and staff, Lewin said university officials are in the final stages of determining the number of layoffs across the university. In the next few days, University Human Resources will contact planning unit heads to begin scheduling meetings with affected employees. The meetings will be conducted between now and April 2.

The university also is offering an early retirement incentive plan (ERIP) for eligible administrative and classified staff under the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System as a way to reduce the number of layoffs.

Among the enhanced offerings for employees affected by layoffs are:

• One to three months' salary continuation based on years of service to the university
  
  
  
• Medical/dental/vision and life insurance plan coverage continuation through Dec. 31, 2009
  
  
  
• Educational benefits continuation
  
  
  
• WellWorks membership
  
  
  
• Outplacement assistance, including use of office space; access to a job database, computers and telephones; and help with resume writing, interviewing and networking skills