**Kansas State President Richard Linton Addresses Salary Concerns in Open Letter**
March 8, 2025 – In a surprising turn of events, Kansas State University President Richard Linton has issued an open letter regarding the salary concerns surrounding the university’s athletics program, specifically addressing the report from head football coach Chris Klieman’s 2025 salary. The letter, which was released to the public earlier today, has sparked widespread conversation and concern from the K-State community, including students, alumni, and faculty.
Linton’s letter highlighted the growing tension over salary discrepancies that have surfaced within the university’s athletic department. A comprehensive report released earlier this week showed discrepancies in the pay structure for various coaching staff, with Coach Klieman’s upcoming salary becoming a focal point of the discussion. Linton acknowledged the issue in his open letter, emphasizing the need for transparency, fairness, and long-term sustainability in managing the university’s budget and compensation strategies.
“After careful consideration and discussions with various stakeholders, including members of the athletics department and the university board, I am addressing the pressing concerns surrounding our football program’s financial structure,” President Linton stated in the letter. “I fully understand the passion and support the Wildcat community has for our football team, and I want to assure you all that we are committed to creating an environment where our coaches are supported while ensuring the long-term financial stability of Kansas State University.”
While the details of Coach Klieman’s new salary are still being finalized, Linton revealed that there are plans to align compensation with the increased expectations that come with success on the field. Coach Klieman, who has guided the Wildcats to several successful seasons, including recent bowl game victories, is expected to receive a salary increase, although the specifics remain unclear.
However, Linton emphasized that this increase would be carefully reviewed to ensure fiscal responsibility. “We are committed to making sure that any salary adjustments, particularly for high-profile coaches like Coach Klieman, are done in a way that supports the broader mission of the university while remaining aligned with our overall financial goals,” Linton said.
One of the key elements Linton addressed in the letter was the importance of maintaining a balance between competitive compensation for staff and faculty, while still ensuring that the university does not overextend itself financially. He stated, “It is critical that we build a compensation model that reflects the success of our athletic teams, but also considers the needs of the broader academic community, which is the core of what Kansas State stands for.”
The open letter also included a call for ongoing dialogue between the administration, athletic department, and the K-State community. Linton announced the formation of a special committee tasked with conducting a thorough review of the university’s athletic department financial practices and ensuring that compensation models across all sports are equitable and transparent.
Linton’s statement comes in the wake of growing concerns from various stakeholders about the widening gap between coaching salaries and academic faculty pay, with many arguing that the increasing financial commitment to athletics could impact other critical areas of the university.
“We must carefully consider the long-term impacts of these decisions on our academic programs and ensure that Kansas State remains a place of excellence for both our student-athletes and our students at large,” Linton said.
The announcement has already generated a strong reaction from K-State alumni, some of whom have expressed frustration with the large sums of money allocated to athletics, while others have supported the university’s efforts to maintain competitiveness at the highest levels.
As Kansas State University moves forward with the proposed changes, the community will be closely watching how the administration balances its financial priorities with its commitment to athletic excellence. Linton’s letter concludes by reiterating the importance of unity during this transitional period: “Our success, both on the field and in the classroom, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of everyone at Kansas State. We are stronger together, and I remain confident that we will continue to thrive as a university, both academically and athletically.”
The university has indicated that further updates will be provided once discussions on the salary adjustments and committee reviews are completed in the coming weeks.