College of the Ozarks Named A Choice Employer

College of the Ozarks Named A Choice Employer
By: Matt Farmer

College of the Ozarks is one of the top baccalaureate colleges in the area; it is also one of the best places to have a job. Springfield Business Journal ranked C of O 3rd among employers with between 100-300 employees in the Springfield-Branson area this year. Springfield Business Journal’s Choice Employers made its debut in 2006 as “Best Places to Work.” The name has changed, but the mission is the same. Its mission is to honor local companies that have exceptional work environments.

“College of the Ozarks has been nominated for the last five years,” says Employee Resources and Insurance Director Vicki Wrosch. “This is the first year we’ve been recognized. It is very exciting. The College has excellent benefits, more than many employers in the area.”

The College offers 100 percent health insurance premiums for full-time employees, tuition reimbursement, on-site childcare, inexpensive on campus dining, free admission to College events, extra paid vacation during the holidays, and a 403(b) retirement plan.

“Our 403(b) is the most celebrated benefit among staff, without a doubt,” says Public Relations Director Elizabeth Hughes. “Employees contribute 5 percent of their salary, and the College double-matches that with 10 percent.”

The Springfield Business Journal used a 32-question online survey to determine how well employers treat employees in five key areas: family friendliness, incentives, people development, corporate culture and civic engagement. College of the Ozarks had the highest possible score for civic engagement and the second highest score for people development, family friendliness and corporate culture as compared to similar-size firms.

For more information, please call the Public Relations office at (417)690-2212.