By Jill Shockey, Penn State
CENTER VALLEY – Penn State remains committed to the idea advocated by President Graham Spanier in his 1995 inaugural address — that “people come first,” Susan Basso, associate vice president for human resources, told the University’s trustees today (July 15).
“Penn State is doing an excellent job of leveraging multiple programs, practices and cultural dynamics to satisfy and engage the best employees, which ultimately contributes to improved performance and long-term institutional success,” Basso explained.
Basso outlined an array of beliefs, benefits and programs that create an integrated “value exchange” between the University and its employees. An attractive total compensation package, along with a supportive workplace and opportunities for professional development and employee recognition programs, combine to attract, engage and retain the best talent, according to Basso.
In November 2010 the University transitioned to a competencies-based job classification and compensation system, using updated and refined job descriptions. This move helped to align similar University positions with current market salary ranges and expected skill levels. It also created opportunities for improved hiring and performance evaluation strategies and established a “road map” for individual growth and advancement.
“Ultimately, this approach allows us to identify what is expected of our employees at various career stages and what it will take for them to grow and advance,” Basso explained.
The University’s benefits package, available to 17,350 full-time Penn State employees, includes medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage; two retirement plan options; life insurance; paid leave and a 75 percent tuition discount for employees, spouses and children. Many employees also participate in voluntary benefit options such as long-term care insurance, supplemental life insurance, supplemental retirement investment and flexible spending accounts for health care and child care. The University’s goal, Basso said, is to offer the most comprehensive, cost-effective and competitive benefits package possible.
Penn State makes a significant investment in wellness programs to encourage employees to adopt healthy lifestyle practices to help prevent the onset or worsening of a disease or illness. This commitment to employee well being, while beneficial to participating individuals, also helps mitigate rising health-care costs. Programs include flu vaccinations, weight management and stress management seminars, and health risk assessments.
Several workplace environment initiatives contribute to employee satisfaction, including University-wide commissions that focus on diversity interests and initiatives and encourage employee involvement. The Staff Advisory Council and periodic faculty/staff surveys provide employee feedback for central administration on policies and practices. Employees are recognized annually through faculty teaching awards and faculty/staff service and achievement awards. The Human Resource Development Center offers professional development programs to support career enrichment, lifelong learning, instruction in technology advances and legal/regulatory compliance. These and other efforts contribute to a healthy and supportive work environment.
Several special initiatives assist employees facing extraordinary circumstances. The Employee Assistance Fund, an endowment of approximately $3.5 million, has provided financial support since 2003 to families facing personal or family hardships such as unforeseen medical bills or costs related to the death of a family member. In the last fiscal year 127 employees received a combined total of $214,000 from the fund. Another initiative, the Leave Donation program allows coworkers to donate some of their accumulated vacation time to coworkers facing a serious personal issue that requires a prolonged absence from work.
“Now more than ever, we are challenging employees to bring their very best to work,” said Basso. “Providing programs and an environment that allow employees to do their best has positioned our institution very well.”