I'm lucky to work here. It is my privilege to be working to support the public good. The pay could be better, but that's not why I'm here. It's the people and the good culture that keeps me here.

Getting to apply my talent to the work while not spending too much time on things that don't impact the work.

Healthy amount of paid days off, and management that encourages the usage of that time away from work. PTO is not worth much if the team frowns on not using it. That's not the case here.

The people in my department are professionals. They're motivated, they like what they do, and they're good at it. They make me better. If I didn't like my team, this would just be a job.

Getting to do the work that I've trained all my life to do, getting the opportunity to stretch my goals, and even get out of my comfort zone. Knowing that I have some small part in creating programs that are designed to help people is the best.

We're doing something for the public good! I spent a lifetime marketing goods and services that no one will remember. Here, I get to do something that has the potential to really help someone else. Culture is top down and I know Dr. Henrich gets this.

The leadership team works hard on transparency and communication to the staff, faculty & students. We're in a very dynamic position, and the ongoing communication makes a huge difference in my understanding of the goals and where I fit in that process. This is key component for keeping me here.

Leadership is up front with communications on topics that affect the employees. They don't hide or talk around issues. They can't solve everything, and they shouldn't be expected to do so, but I have the sense that they are interested in staff feedback, and they've proven to be real human beings.

I know I can rely on my team. The job that I do relies on the work and support that team members provide, and everyone is invested in the work. We're doing things that support the public good, for the community at large, for people who need us. Everyone gets that.

I know I can earn a higher salary for the work that I do in this market or in Austin, or remotely. But I also like where I work, the people I work with and the health/PTO benefits, and that's likely what keeps me here. Please consider a cost of living increase.

Culture starts at the top. When leadership demonstrates a positive attitude and care for everyone, then it's easy to follow that lead. It's easy to lead in this environment, when I know that the team at the top has a good moral compass. The day this changes will be the day I pull the rip cord.