Press Release

The Henry Ford Announces Temporary Layoffs and Salary Cuts; Extends Closure Through May 31 Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

(DEARBORN, MI – April 3, 2020) As the country continues to grapple with the Coronavirus pandemic The Henry Ford announced temporary staffing changes to help alleviate the long-term impact of the current economic downturn. The institution will remain closed through May 31.

The 90-year-old institution estimates, at minimum, a $10 million budget deficit for the 2020 year. In an effort to protect all employees and work for the long-term, The Henry Ford is making changes to staffing in the interim that include temporary unpaid leaves for more than 80 percent of its staff or 1,400 employees. Those that remain on active status, will have their pay decreased on a scale from 10 to 25 percent based on their current salary. A small number of staff designated to continue essential work on-site, such as members of security and animal care, will continue their work at no pay reduction.

“This unprecedented crisis is affecting each of us individually and The Henry Ford collectively,” said Patricia Mooradian, president and CEO of The Henry Ford. “While this time is painful for all of us, it is vital that our organization make these difficult decisions now to best position The Henry Ford for the future health and well-being of our team, our institution, our guests, our stakeholders and our community.”

This limited employment change takes effect on Monday, April 6, 2020 and, as of today, continues through May 31, 2020.  All employees currently will be paid through April 5.

All full-time employees placed on temporary leave will continue to receive health benefits throughout this period and The Henry Ford will fully fund all contributions towards that cost. Employees on temporary leave without pay are eligible to apply for unemployment assistance. The Henry Ford created a Talent & Culture Help Center to assist all staff during this time.

The Henry Ford acted early and closed its campus on March 13 to comply with State, Federal and CDC guidelines during the rapidly evolving Coronavirus crisis.

About The Henry Ford:
Located in Dearborn, Michigan, The Henry Ford, a globally-recognized destination, fosters inspiration and learning from hands-on encounters with artifacts that represent the most comprehensive collection anywhere focusing on innovation, ingenuity and resourcefulness in America. Its unique venues include Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, Greenfield Village, Ford Rouge Factory Tour, Benson Ford Research Center and Henry Ford Academy, a public charter high school. Together with its online presence at thehenryford.org, its national television programs, The Henry Ford’s Innovation Nation and Did I Mention Invention? and other resources, The Henry Ford helps individuals of all kinds to unlock their potential and help shape a better future. The Henry Ford advanced its role as a catalyst for change in education with the acquisition of The STEMIE Coalition, a growing affiliation of organizations dedicated to fostering innovation, invention and entrepreneurship in students, K-12. With Invention Convention Worldwide, The Henry Ford hosts the Invention Convention U.S. Nationals and makes innovation learning curriculum accessible to educators and students worldwide.

The Henry Ford Media Contact
Wendy Metros, Media & Film Relations
wendyme@thehenryford.org, 248-240-0630