On May 12, Rice University launched its first-ever Voluntary Separation Incentive Program (VSIP). This one-time, voluntary benefit recognizes staff who may be considering a new chapter, while allowing the university to thoughtfully realign roles and plan for the future.
What is VSIP?
VSIP is a voluntary, one-time benefit program offering financial and health care-related incentives to eligible staff in exchange for a planned separation from the university. It builds on recent enhancements—like increased base pay, a stronger merit pool, and lower health care costs—and reflects Rice’s ongoing commitment to supporting its people. As part of the university’s growth under Momentous, VSIP reinforces our values by honoring long-serving staff while enabling thoughtful transitions, knowledge transfer, and strategic planning. This initiative is one more way Rice is investing in its future—wisely, compassionately, and with purpose.
Who is Eligible?
To participate in this program, staff must meet the following criteria as of August 1, 2025:
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Be at least 50 years old
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Have at least 3 years of cumulative service
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Not be paid 100% from grants ("soft money")
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Not designated as a retiree
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Not already in the process of separating from the University
What are the Benefits?
VSIP Participants will receive:
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A lump-sum payment based on years of service (3 to 12 months of salary)
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Medical insurance subsidies for those aged 60-64 who are enrolled in Rice’s medical insurance for FY26
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Access to resources and support, including information sessions and individual consultations.
Separation dates will be one of the following:
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September 30, 2025
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December 31, 2025
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March 31, 2026
While staff may indicate their preferred date, managers and unit leaders will select the final date to ensure continuity of service.
Ongoing Support
Rice is committed to making this process smooth and transparent. Human Resources hosted a series of information sessions to help eligible staff and their managers understand their options and make informed decisions.
A recording of the information session and the supporting presentation is available on the Employee Resources webpage for those who could not attend or may want to review the information again.
HR is also offering ongoing one-on-one consultations to help eligible staff members better understand their individual circumstances and has coordinated individual meeting opportunities with Rice’s retirement partners, Fidelity and TIAA.
What’s Next?
On May 27, the application period opened, allowing eligible staff to indicate their interest in participating in the program. Although not legally binding, this step is required for anyone who wants to take part in this benefit. Upcoming key dates include:
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June 30 – VSIP Applications due
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August 1 – Separation agreements sent to applicants
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September 15 – Final day to submit separation agreements to HR
Visit the VSIP website to learn more about this program, view information session recordings, register for one-on-one consultations, and review helpful resources. For additional information, please email vsip@rice.edu.