University of Pittsburgh Recognized by AARP as One of Best Employers for Workers Over 50

PITTSBURGH-In recognition of exemplary practices in the recruitment and retention of older workers, the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) has named the University of Pittsburgh to its Best Employers for Workers Over 50 listing. In awarding the biennial honor to Pitt, AARP took specific note of numerous University practices that promote a positive working environment for older employees as well as their families.

Officials at Pitt said AARP's recognition is a tremendous honor and a testament to Pitt's long-standing commitment to its older workers. Ronald W. Frisch, associate vice chancellor for Pitt's Department of Human Resources, said acknowledging Pitt's over-50 staff and faculty for their leadership, mentoring, and scholarly achievements is one of the top priorities for the University.

"It is a privilege to be associated with an organization such as Pitt that has long been committed to its senior workforce," said Frisch. "This award, one of only 50 in the country, independently emphasizes the University's commitment to all, especially our over-50 community of partners. Along with the leadership of the University of Pittsburgh, I am very proud of the University family and this special recognition."

In an award letter informing Pitt officials of the University's honor, AARP pointed to the University's practice of providing a nurturing workplace culture that extends educational opportunities to older employees. Specifically, the letter mentioned Pitt's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, which provides test-and-grade-free courses to students above the age of 55, as well as workplace policies that accommodate older workers with such tools as screen and phone amplifications and read-to-you screens. The letter also recognized Pitt's health and financial benefits packages, which are available to all employees but can be especially beneficial to older workers.

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan membership organization that assists people 50 and older with making choices that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. The organization has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

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10/05/09/amm