CANYON, Texas — A new benefit for West Texas A&M University staff members will offer employees the chance to make an impact on their community.

According to a Jan. 2 memo from WT President Walter V. Wendler, all full-time, non-faculty staff members will be allowed eight hours a year for a service day off.

Staff may volunteer for nonprofit organizations or for community relief efforts in the region. The leave, with approval from the employee’s direct supervisor, can be taken as one eight-hour day or in two four-hour increments.

“This benefit will be a great opportunity for WT employees to engage in regional community service projects,” Wendler said in the memo. “I commend the Staff Council for their continual efforts to provide staff development and service recognition opportunities.”

The new benefit was suggested by the WT Staff Council.

“We encourage all staff members to take advantage of this benefit,” said Steven Knadle, assistant registrar and Staff Council president. “WT is one of the largest employers in Amarillo and Canyon, so allowing our staff to take a day off to give back to their community could make a meaningful impact. I have already received several emails from staff members praising this benefit.”

The service day off is one of several benefits offered to WT staff, faculty or both.

WT employees and their eligible immediate family members receive 50 percent off tuition and mandatory fees, a benefit that’s among the most generous offered by any state college or university in Texas or The Texas A&M University System.

WT employees also get wellness release time for physical activity, 12 to 15 holidays per year, generous sick and vacation leave, and access to various insurance and retirement plans, among other benefits.

Retaining and recruiting the highest level of faculty and staff is a key component of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World.

That plan is fueled by the historic One West comprehensive fundraising campaign, which reached its initial $125 million goal 18 months after publicly launching in September 2021. The campaign’s new goal is to reach $175 million by 2025; currently, it has raised more than $150 million.