Sep. 10, 2009
Media Contact: Catherine Ferraro, cferraro@gmu.edu 703-993-8813
FAIRFAX, Va.– For the third year in a row, Mason has been named one of the 50 best places to work for persons 50 years of age and older by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).
According to the AARP, Mason is ranked tenth in the organization's annual recognition program that awards companies and organizations whose best practices and policies address the issues affecting the aging labor force and create roadmaps for the workplaces of tomorrow.
"Mason is honored to be recognized for a third time as one of AARP’s Best Employers for Workers Over 50," says Linda Harber, associate vice president in the Office of Human Resources and Payroll.
"We strive to maintain a creative, enthusiastic environment for faculty and staff of all ages. It is the energy and dedication of our tremendous university community that makes Mason a great place to work and learn."
Boasting a total workforce of 5,371 faculty and staff, the AARP recognized Mason for providing a supportive workplace culture; opportunities for employees that include a life planning and eldercare seminar series for those interested in learning more about caring for an elderly relative, planning retirement or aging in place; support groups, information and referral services regarding eldercare; individual and family long-term care coverage—the same benefits that current employees receive—to retirees of any age; flexible work schedules; and opportunities for retirees to continue participating in campus life activities.
Mason also has a commitment to work-life balance and encourages its employees to take advantage of the cultural and recreational discounts on campus. Employees receive special pricing at Patriot Center events, including basketball season tickets, as well as for subscriptions to performances at the Center for the Arts. In addition, Mason employees can maintain a work-life balance through the university's many transportation options including free shuttles, van and car pools.
Employers who applied for the AARP "Best Employers for Workers Over 50" award submitted a comprehensive application that included questions about their human resources practices and policies. Some of the areas of consideration include recruiting practices, opportunities for training, education and career development, workplace accommodations and benefits for retirees.
For the complete list, visit http://www.aarp.org/money/work/best_employers/best_employers_list_2009/.
About George Mason University
Named the #1 national university to watch in the 2009 rankings of U.S. News & World Report, George Mason University is an innovative, entrepreneurial institution with global distinction in a range of academic fields. Located in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C., Mason provides students access to diverse cultural experiences and the most sought-after internships and employers in the country. Mason offers strong undergraduate and graduate degree programs in engineering and information technology, organizational psychology, health care and visual and performing arts. With Mason professors conducting groundbreaking research in areas such as climate change, public policy and the biosciences, George Mason University is a leading example of the modern, public university.
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