Faculty and Staff Reflect on What Makes Baylor a “Great College to Work For”
For the fifth consecutive year, Baylor University was named to the elite honor roll in the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey released by The Chronicle of Higher Education.
The Chronicle survey recognizes universities and colleges that receive top ratings from their employees on workforce practices and policies. Baylor was recognized as exceptional in the areas of collaborative governance, professional and career-development programs, teaching environment, compensation and benefits, facilities, workspaces, security, job satisfaction and support, work/life balance, confidence in senior leadership, supervisor relationship, respect and appreciation and tenure clarity and process.
In light of this honor, Baylor News asked faculty and staff across the University to reflect on their time at Baylor.
What makes Baylor University a great place to work?
“Baylor is a place where big dreams are welcomed. There is a relentless pursuit of excellence — academically, aesthetically, athletically — that is contagious. Faculty, staff and students are proud to be at Baylor because we are engaged in important work together. A shared mission guides us,” said Dr. Kevin Dougherty, associate professor of sociology.
“I go to work every day on a gorgeous campus overflowing with the creations of valued colleagues and students — their books, art, lectures, sports teams, music— and, for me, working in such an environment is better than great. To quote the hymn, it’s a foretaste of glory divine,” said Jeremy Counseller, professor of law and Big 12 Faculty Athletic Representative.
“I feel encouraged, and even challenged, to continue my education. I feel supported by the leaders in my department and it’s obvious that they want the best for me and my career. There is a constant sense of pushing each other to be better and rooting for one another,” said Erica Ellis project manager for constituent engagement.
“Baylor’s mission inspires and calls each member of the community to pursue excellence, to compassionately care for others, to lead, to serve and to make a difference in our world. Ultimately, Baylor is a special place where we have the opportunity to work with brilliant minds and passionate hearts; where spiritual growth is encouraged, expected and valued,” said Keane Tarbell, associate director for new student programs.
How long have you been working here, and why do you choose to stay?
“I have been working at Baylor’s Truett Seminary for eight years. I have stayed because I love to come to work. My job perfectly matches my passions and abilities, and there is a wonderful team atmosphere amongst my colleagues,” said Jan Cason, financial manager for George W. Truett Theological Seminary.
“I have had the privilege to work for Baylor University for 20 years. The heart of Baylor University, the Christian focus on caring for their employees and students, is why I have chosen to stay. I also feel we are making a difference for our next generation of leaders. What could be more exciting?” said Janis Kovar, director of development.
“I have been working at Baylor University for over 34 years. Upon graduation from Baylor, I accepted a position as a receptionist. My plan was to seek another job in my field; however, I fell in love with working with college students. The most compelling reasons I have stayed at Baylor were the many opportunities afforded to grow, learn and teach. Although I have been at one institution, my experiences have been quite diverse!” said Dr. Liz Palacios, dean for student development.
“I have worked at Baylor University for just over 10 years. I choose to stay because Baylor is an amazing community with an excellent mission that challenges its faculty, students and staff. The work is rewarding and the environment in which I am able to work is exceptional," said Carl F. Flynn, director for communications and marketing for university libraries and ITS technology.
How has working here developed you personally and professionally?
“I cannot begin to count the ways I have grown both personally and professionally. I have learned to be independent, thoughtful, flexible and sometimes immovable. I have found role models, colleagues who have become friends, and watched students grow to become fully contributing members of society. Professionally, I have been stretched to work in areas I didn’t even know existed and have been challenged to work across the University in a variety of situations. What a great opportunity for me to become someone I would never have imagined when I first came to Baylor,” said Lois Ferguson, manager of commencement and facilities planning.
“Baylor has given me the opportunity to grow as an academician, an administrator, a leader, a community change agent and as a world traveler. Until I came to Baylor, I had never traveled outside the United States. Now I have been to countries from the Far East to South Africa. My worldview has expanded greatly from the provincial Central Texas view I had as a young man. My personal life has been greatly enhanced also by the colleagues with which I have had the opportunity to work. I do not think I could have ever imagined having such a wonderful career as I have had at Baylor,” said Dr. Randy M. Wood, professor and director for center for Christian education.