The Chronicle of Higher Education has recognized Elon University in its 2011 “Great Colleges to Work For” program, which honors institutions for best practices and policies, such as teaching environment, respect and appreciation, and confidence in senior leadership.
It is the university’s third consecutive year on the list, which recognized 111 colleges and universities from across the United States. Results were announced July 25, 2011, and are included in a special supplement of The Chronicle. Among medium-sized institutions, Elon won honors in the following categories:
Collaborative governance: “Faculty members are appropriately involved in decisions related to academic programs.” Elon was one of only three medium-sized universities recognized in this category.
Facilities, work spaces and security: “Facilities adequately meet needs, the appearance of the campus is pleasing, and the institution takes steps to provide a secure environment.” Only 10 medium-sized universities were recognized in this category.
“A phenomenal faculty and staff are the most important resources Elon University provides to its students,” said Elon University President Leo M. Lambert. “They continue to shape our university into a source of intellectual, physical and spiritual development for thousands of young men and women each year. These results reflect the energy our professors and staff dedicate to making Elon a remarkable place for students to grow as global citizens.”
In recognizing Elon, the Chronicle noted Elon’s exceptional campus, which is designated as a botanical garden, as well as the university’s low employee turnover rate. Last year, the voluntary turnover rate for faculty was one percent, and for staff was 3.9 percent.
Elon is one of only four colleges in North Carolina recognized in this year’s edition. Other schools recognized were Duke University, Gardner-Webb University and Wake Tech Community College.
Results of The Chronicle’s survey are based on responses from nearly 44,000 administrators, faculty and staff members at 310 institutions, including four-year colleges and universities and two-year community colleges.
“Even in a down economy when many colleges are freezing salaries or having layoffs, employees still find good in their work,” said Jeffrey J. Selingo, editor of The Chronicle of Higher Education. “The Great Colleges to Work For survey is meant to help both employers and potential employees by giving them vital information about workplaces.”
The “Great Colleges” survey included a two-part assessment process: consulting firm ModernThink LLC administered a survey to employees, and an institutional audit captured demographics and workplace policies at each institution. Feedback from faculty and staff was the biggest factor in determining which colleges and universities made the list.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., The Chronicle of Higher Education is a top source of news, opinion and job information for college and university faculty and administrators. Already in 2011, it has been nominated for two National Magazine Awards for Digital Media and won a record seven prizes from the Education Writers Association.