Recognition Guidelines for Separating Employees
When a full-time faculty or staff member separates from Virginia Tech, it is important that they are appropriately recognized, and that such recognition is handled consistently throughout the university.
- The supervisor/manager should discuss with the employee if they prefer acknowledgement of the departure or retirement.
- The home department should cover the cost of the event, subject to prior budget approval by a senior leadership team member and available funding.
Following are some suggested ways to recognize employees in the event of a resignation or retirement.
Resignations:
Years of Service |
Going Away Recognition |
1 to 9 years |
“Dutch treat” lunch (home department will pay for departing employee only); supervisor determines appropriate invitation list. Recommended cost: Lunch $15*. |
10+ years |
Cake and punch reception. Recommended budget: $150*. |
*Be aware of the tax implications on gifts.
Retirements:
YEARS OF SERVICE |
RETIREMENT RECOGNITION |
1 to 9 years |
Cake and punch reception. Recommended budget: $150*. |
10 to 35+ years |
Hors d’oeuvre reception. Recommended budget: $1,000*, 50 - 75 attendees. |
*Be aware of the tax implications on gifts.
For retirees, the supervisor might consider selecting a Virginia Tech photo to have framed and presented with a card at the retirement event. The cost will be covered by the home department.
The Division of Human Resources provides a certificate for the retiree.
Other Recommendations:
- Print out a certificate for the employee to thank them for their service.
- Departments/Colleges may opt to receive donations from employees who would like to participate in the separating employee’s recognition event to cover associated costs.
- Social potluck lunch or meet at a restaurant.