Employee Learning and Development

Overview

Develop and implement a structured employee training and professional development program for both new and current managers and supervisors, supporting the successful execution of the university’s strategic plan. By intentionally aligning workforce capabilities with institutional priorities, the program strengthens leadership effectiveness, enhances workplace performance, and fosters organizational adaptability. This alignment ensures that leaders are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary to drive institutional effectiveness, support a high-performing culture, and respond proactively to evolving challenges and opportunities.

The framework for this program will be:

IUP 101 (New Employee Orientation)

Develop and deliver a comprehensive New Employee Orientation program that immerses new faculty and staff in the university’s mission, values, culture, policies, and expectations while providing the resources, knowledge, and connections necessary for a successful transition and long-term success. The program will foster engagement, promote institutional awareness, accelerate time-to-productivity, and strengthen employee retention.

Job Skills Training

Develop and deliver comprehensive job skills training programs that equip employees with the technical knowledge, professional competencies, and practical skills necessary to perform effectively in their current roles and prepare for future career opportunities. Training initiatives will support employee success, enhance productivity, promote continuous learning, and align workforce capabilities with the university’s strategic objectives.

Management Skills Training

Design, implement, and sustain a comprehensive management skills training program that equips supervisors and managers with the knowledge, tools, and competencies necessary to effectively lead teams, manage performance, communicate expectations, resolve conflicts, support employee development, and advance organizational goals. The program will promote consistent management practices, strengthen leadership effectiveness, and foster a positive and productive workplace culture.

Executive Development Program

Design and implement a comprehensive Executive Development Program that prepares current and emerging senior leaders to effectively address complex organizational challenges, drive strategic initiatives, foster innovation, and advance the university's mission and long-term goals. The program will strengthen executive leadership capabilities, enhance organizational effectiveness, and build a sustainable leadership pipeline.

Accomplishment Summary

To date, we have implemented a three-phase new employee orientation program, IUP 101. Phase 1 introduces new employees to their benefits and is conducted within the employee’s first week, as benefit decisions need to be made within 30 days of the date of hire. Phase 2 is an introduction to IUP’s history, mission, the Presidential Goals and Strategic Priorities, as well as an overview of how IUP integrates with PASSHE and the commonwealth. Policies and procedures are also reviewed. New managers are given additional information on IUP employment practices and where to find resources. Phase 3 is an introduction to members of the IUP community over a three-day period. We are looking to consolidate some of the information in these trainings and make them more interactive.

Progress