For this installment of APA Questions From The Trenches, we asked APA President Maury Koffman to answer a potpourri of questions that members have brought to his attention recently.
I have been informed that my workspace will be relocated through a department reorganization. How is the decision made where my new workspace will be located?
The University, as the employer, retains the right to determine your office workspace under prevailing law and the APA contract. However, any decision must be reasonable and in most reorganizations, APs are asked for their input before a final decision is made. The APA is able to assist in reaching a mutual resolution to your office space as it has an overall impact on your daily work environment and can impact your ability to perform your work responsibilities.
I have been asked to wear specific clothing during the workday. Can my supervisor and the University require specific attire to be worn in the workplace?
There is precedent that the University can have a reasonable expectation that employees wear appropriate, professional attire in the workplace. However, the approach must be uniformly applied.
I have been offered another job on campus. How much notice must I give before resigning my current position?
There is no length of notice requirement to resign from your current position. The APA encourages providing as much notice as possible with the standard of two weeks notice if your calendar for transition allows.
If I leave MSU employment prior to 25 years of service, do I retain the total balance of my 403(b) retirement account including the MSU contribution?
Yes. The APA is proud to have negotiated a vibrant retirement plan. Employee contributions are 5% and University contributions are 10% of the employee’s base annual salary. The money contributed to your 403(b) plan vests immediately and goes with you at any time you conclude your employment relationship with MSU.
I have questions about our APA bargained retirement plan administered through MSU. Who can I contact for more information?
There is an FAQ on the MSU HR website at http://www.hr.msu.edu/benefits/retirement that provides more information around our retirement plan. Additionally, you can contact the retirement office via phone at 517.353.4434 or via email at [email protected].