Welcome back, Riverbats.
Spring break offers a pause, and returning offers something just as important: a moment to reset how we move forward together.
Across ACC, there is meaningful work underway. At the same time, we are part of a broader world that is complex, fast-moving, and at times uncertain. This is a moment to reconnect to our work, to one another, and to the role each of us plays in shaping this institution.
How we show up right now will shape what ACC becomes next.
Here are ten things I want you to know as we step into the rest of the semester.
1. The Compensation & Classification framework is moving forward
Implementation is underway, focused on aligning systems, tools, and processes so decisions about roles and compensation are consistent and sustainable across the College.
- The last update was shared in the March 3 HappyHR newsletter
- Updates and communication plans are developed in collaboration with the Compensation & Classification workgroup, including association members, staff, and administrators
- If you have questions or ideas, please engage HR or your association so we can ensure information is clear and responsive to your needs
- Moving forward, updates will be shared here monthly with clear, relevant information
2. Student Affairs and Basic Needs alignment is nearing completion
Student Affairs and Basic Needs are the final two areas being aligned to the new framework. We are within weeks of completing this work.
- We are validating how positions (not individuals) map to the new job categories with divisional leadership
- Once positions are confirmed, we will review individual pay within those roles
- If an employee’s pay falls below the new range for their position, an adjustment will be made
What to expect:
- Some employees may receive adjustments while others do not
- Previously, similar roles could exist across multiple pay grades due to the absence of a consistent structure
- Under the new framework, roles are aligned to defined pay ranges based on market value and internal equity
- Adjustments this year will occur only when pay falls below the new range
Also:
- Reclassification requests submitted in these divisions are being reviewed
- Employees will receive a determination on those requests
Important reminders:
- Any pay adjustments resulting from this one-time alignment will be retroactive to September 1, 2025
- This is not a market study and not an annual raise
- This is a one-time structural alignment to ensure consistency
3. Demonstrated Practices of Caring is becoming operational
This pillar of ACC’s Theory of Change is moving into daily practice.
We are on the verge of redefining the values through clear behavioral expectations so we can:
- train to them
- evaluate against them
- hire with them in mind
- and hold each other accountable
You will see more clarity in how we communicate, give feedback, and support one another’s work.
4. Upward evaluation is launching this semester
Employees will have the opportunity to provide structured feedback to their supervisors.
- First year results will not be used for evaluation decisions
- Results will identify strengths and opportunities across the College
- A minimum response threshold will protect confidentiality
- Leaders will receive aggregated results where appropriate
- Cabinet members are accountable for results within their divisions
5. Supervisor training and expectations are strengthening
Training will take place in late April through May, focused on feedback, accountability, and team leadership.
We are also introducing:
- Workday-issued policy acknowledgments
- Brief, ungraded knowledge checks with those acknowledgements
- Tracked completion
This ensures expectations are clear and consistently applied.
6. We are evaluating our hourly workforce
HR Business Partners are reviewing hourly roles to better understand usage, alignment, and consistency across the College.
7. Job architecture and role clarity are being standardized
A major win associated with the transition to the new compensation and classification framework will be common job categories (Assistant, Specialist, Coordinator) being defined with consistent expectations.
- Core qualifications and requirements will be standardized
- Duties and skills will allow for appropriate customization
- Supervisor training will support this work
Job description updates are expected to begin later this year following Workday configuration.
8. HR support is here and improving
We are focused on service excellence through better data, reporting, and accountability.
- Submit a TDX ticket for support
- Join HR Office Hours on Fridays from 3:30 to 4:30 PM
9. How we show up matters, especially now
ACC remains a place where:
- people are treated with dignity
- professionalism is expected
- and differences are handled with care and respect
This is part of how we do our work well.
10. The work ahead belongs to all of us
Our systems and culture depend on how we show up every day:
- how we communicate
- how we hold ourselves and others accountable
- how we support one another
This is a moment to move forward with clarity, intention, and shared commitment.
We’re glad you’re back, and I’m glad we’re moving forward together.
With appreciation,
Kelly Torrico
Vice Chancellor of Human Resources