Share-based Compensation

9 Months Ended

May 31, 2012

Share-based Compensation [Abstract]

Share-based Compensation

Share-based Compensation

In the first quarter of fiscal 2012, the Compensation Committee granted 143,718 restricted stock units (“RSU”) to its key employees and officers under the Company’s 1993 Stock Incentive Plan. The majority of the RSUs have a five-year term and vest 20% per year commencing June 1, 2012. The estimated fair value of the RSUs granted is based on the market closing price of the underlying Class A common stock on the date of grant and totaled $6 million. The compensation expense associated with the RSUs is recognized over the requisite service period of the awards, net of forfeitures.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company granted a deferred stock unit (“DSU”) award to each of its non-employee directors under the Company’s Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors. John Carter, the Company’s Chairman, and Tamara Lundgren, President and Chief Executive Officer, receive compensation pursuant to their employment agreements and do not receive DSUs. One DSU gives the director the right to receive one share of Class A common stock at a future date. The grant included a total of 18,202 shares that will vest on the day before the Company’s 2013 annual meeting, subject to continued Board service. The total fair value of these awards was not material.