Employee Recognition

Title: Employee Recognition
Approved by
Date Approved:
Effective Date: 06/03/2019
Responsible Official: Vice President of Human Resources; Director of Procurement
Responsible University Office: HR Administration; Procurement Office
Revision History: 06/01/1996; 01/01/2002
Related Legislation and University policies: Employee Recognition, Gifts and Awards policy
Review Period: 5 years
Date of Last Review
Relates to: executive staff, senior staff, and staff
Exclusions: temporary employees

Policy Statement

CWRU seeks to show appreciation for an employee’s achievement and to motivate employees to continue with good performance and loyalty to the university. 

Recognition Programs

Officially approved recognition programs currently in place include the President's Award for Distinguished Service, the Staff Service Award, the Hovorka Prize, and various awards to recognize outstanding teaching, such as the Wittke Award and the Deikhoff Award. Nominations of persons to be recognized through these programs are solicited annually and award recipients may be announced at ceremonies and through the daily and other campus communications.

Any additional programs must be approved by the Human Resources Department prior to commencement.

Supervisor Recognition Opportunities

Supervisors are encouraged to develop meaningful, yet simple, recognition opportunities in their area of responsibility. Departments may establish recognition systems for outstanding contribution, effort, and accomplishment. Recognition may be in the form of announcements, both personal or public, or in the form of reward(s). Rewards are subject to Internal Revenue Service (IRS) guidelines.

IRS Guidelines

Under IRS regulations, all cash, gift certificate awards, and gift cards are taxable income to the recipient. Certain non-cash gifts are excludable from income if they meet the IRS's stringent requirements.

Employees should review the university’s business policies, specifically the Procurement Office's Employee Recognition, Gifts and Awards policy for more information on the IRS Guidelines.