VCU again recognized for treatment of older workers

By Tom Gresham

The AARP has again named Virginia Commonwealth University one of the “Best Employers for Workers over 50” in the United States, marking the second consecutive year VCU was recognized for the fairness of its policies and practices toward older workers.

VCU was one of 50 employers selected for the honor and one of four in the state of Virginia. The AARP has compiled the list for six years, awarding organizations that have demonstrated a focus on the recruitment and retention of workers over the age of 50. Organizations are judged in such categories as recruitment practices, continuing opportunities for advancement, flexible work schedules and benefits for current and retired employees.

“This year’s best employers set high standards for practices toward older workers at a time when the value of these employees is often underestimated,” said AARP State Director Bill Kallio. “It is in their self-interest, as well as enlightened policy, to emphasize retention and recruitment of the 50-plus worker as America’s workforce ages in the years ahead.”

Cindy Andrews, executive director of human resources for VCU, said the school recognizes the critical impact employees in the 50-plus population can make. Thirty-eight percent of VCU’s employees are 50-and-over, and 12 percent of the university’s new hires are 50-plus. The average tenure of VCU employees over the age of 50 is 15.75 years.

“"We are pleased to have received this award for the second year,” Andrews said.  “Although our human resource programs are designed for various stages of an employee's life cycle, it is great to be recognized for those that provide assistance to employees over age 50."

Among the programs the AARP cited for special recognition at VCU was the school’s phased retirement program, which allows eligible faculty to work a reduced workload until retirement with full benefits. Full-time employees have the option of moving to part-time work on a temporary or permanent basis.

The AARP also praised VCU’s relations with its 675 retirees. The university maintains regular contact with retirees and offers them various work arrangements, such as temporary work assignments, consulting work, telecommuting and part-time work.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that helps people 50 and older have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole.