Pitt Chancellor Gets Massive Pay Raise; Administrators' Salaries Also Boosted

PITTSBURGH, PA — The University of Pittsburgh's board of trustees have approved significant salary increases for Chancellor Joan Gabel and other top administrators.

Gabel's base salary will rise 33 percent, from $950,000 to $1.25 million. She also will have her annual retention payments extended through 2030, increasing gradually from the current $100,000 payment to $200,000 in 2029 and 2030.

Gabel, who has been chancellor since 2023, said in a statement that she will donate this year's raise to raise to various university programs.

“With gratitude to the Board of Trustees for recognizing our shared successes, and with deep appreciation for this unique and challenging moment for many in our Pitt community, I am donating the raise this year to support students through our Finish Line Grants, to provide for faculty and staff who rely on our emergency funds, and to establish a scholarship in my parents’ honor that recognizes the power of Pitt teaching and research," she stated.

Provost Joseph McCarthy had his salary boosted 15 percent to $645,000. Seven other administrators will receive raises in 2026; their salaries will range from $307,000 to $1.1 million.