U-M takes top marks as one of the best university workplaces in the U.S., according to the results of the Chronicle of Higher Education’s 2015 Great Colleges to Work For survey of faculty and staff.
According to the Chronicle, 281 institutions took part in the survey, and 86 colleges and universities made the list. U-M also made this year’s Honor Roll as a standout institution in its size category.
“Supporting the success of our faculty and staff members as they pursue their professional ambitions is essential to our mission,” said President Mark Schlissel. “We take great pride in the opportunities we offer at the University of Michigan.”
The list marks the eighth consecutive year the university has been recognized for specific best practices and policies.
U-M was recognized in the following areas:
• Confidence in Senior Leadership — Leaders have the necessary knowledge, skills and experience for institutional success.
• Supervisor or Department Chair Relationship — Supervisor makes expectations clear and solicits ideas.
• Diversity — The institution makes a concerted effort to create a welcoming and fair environment for all its employees.
• Facilities, Workplaces and Security — Facilities adequately meet needs, the appearance of the campus is pleasing and the institution takes steps to provide a secure environment.
• Work/Life Balance — Policies give employees the flexibility to manage their personal lives.
• Compensation and Benefits — Pay is fair and benefits meet the needs of employees.
• Job Satisfaction and Support — Provides insight into the satisfaction with job fit, autonomy and resources.
• Respect and Appreciation — Employees are regularly recognized for their contributions.
• Professional/Career Development Programs — Employees are given the opportunity to develop skills and understand requirements to advance in their careers.
• Teaching Environment — Faculty members say the institution recognizes innovative and high-quality teaching.
• Tenure Clarity and Process — Requirements for tenure are clear, faculty members say.
“U-M’s 45,000 faculty and staff help make Michigan an extraordinary university,” said Laurita Thomas, associate vice president for Human Resources. “We place a high priority on creating an environment where they can do their best work.”
The Chronicle uses ModernThink LLC, a human capital consulting firm, to conduct surveys of faculty and staff at participating institutions.
