Work and life-finding a way to balance the two

A lack of child-care options has caused WSU employees to express concern to various employee groups, including the Faculty Senate, the Administrative Professional Advisory Council and the Commission on the Status of Women.

But in spring 2006, when the issue came to a head and resulted in proposals for a child-care facility, another group was helping coordinate the effort — the Work/Life Advisory Committee.

“Many bodies made light work as well as instigating positive forward movement,” said Becky Morton, finance manager for Veterinary and Comparative Anatomy, Pharmacology and Physiology and WLAC chairwoman. “Separately each person can achieve some movement, but the WLAC really is the group to draw all these divided groups together in joint projects.”

The WLAC includes members representing faculty, administrative professional, civil service, graduate and undergraduate constituents, and they represent all four campuses, she said.

The committee provides information on available services to assist employees when their professional lives overlap with personal or family needs. Concerns include child or elder care referrals, personal counseling, health care, parental leave, telecommuting, expanded tenure timeline and additional issues.

Those interested in joining the committee or assisting with future projects are encouraged to contact Morton at bmorton@wsu.edu. Meetings are announced on WSU Announcements and are open to the public.

Committee members will be available to answer questions at the annual Employee Benefits Fair in French Ad/Lighty on Nov. 9.

More information can be found at www.worklife.wsu.edu.

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