June 2, 2003

Dear Colleagues:

Thank you!

With great regret, we recently informed you of the need to delay salary increases by three months starting in July to help us cope with Johns Hopkins Medicine's fiscal problems. The responses we received from many of you were supportive beyond all expectations.

We heard thanks for our commitment to avoid layoffs and to apply the remedy to all levels throughout Johns Hopkins Medicine. And we received stunning offers: Some were willing to incur a six-month delay in order to help employees who earn less. Others offered to contribute to a fund if that would help. And from one group we heard an offer to endure a salary freeze for a full year so the hospital could "go over the hump."

Your understanding of the need for our actions, your continued support and your commitment to Johns Hopkins Medicine reconfirmed what we already knew: We have the greatest team in the world.

In response to our request, many of you already have submitted cost savings ideas or increased your patient volumes. With your efforts and your skills, we will get over that hump.

Sincerely,