Employee Recognition
Policies and Procedures Manual Section 18
Western Michigan University's employee service recognition programs are designed to publicly recognize and honor those employees who have provided extensive service to WMU.
25 Year Club
Membership in the 25 Year Club is open to all regular faculty and staff who have worked for the University for 25 or more years, and those who retire from the University as a 25 Year Club member after meeting WMU retiree eligibility criteria. Members receive a certificate of appreciation, and may choose from a selection of gifts. A banquet is held each year for current and new 25 Year Club members.
Service recognition
Employees with five years of service receive a letter of recognition from Human Resources. Employees with 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 years of service receive a certificate and service anniversary pin.
Make a Difference awards
The Make a Difference awards program is a joint program of the Administrative Professional Association; American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees; Michigan State Employees Association; Police Officers Association; and Professional Support Staff Organization, to honor staff compensation system, AFSCME, MSEA and POA employees whose service can be considered outstanding and beyond the call of duty.
Employees of the University nominate other employees for the awards. Winners are determined by a selection committee, which consists of one member from each of the five staff employee groups. There are two award components of the Make a Difference program:
- Semiannual awards. From those nominated, up to 15 persons are selected to receive a commemorative certificate, $300 cash prize (before taxes), and recognition in the Western News. Winners are also honored at a reception.
- Annual awards. From the winners of the fiscal year's semiannual awards, up to four persons are selected to receive a plaque, $1,200 cash prize (before taxes), and recognition in the Western News. Winners are also honored at the Academic Convocation and have their photograph on display in the Seibert Administration Building.
Coordination and publicity
Human Resources, in cooperation with the Office of University Relations, is responsible for the development, maintenance, coordination and publicity necessary for the employee service recognition programs.