04/09/2026

Dear Faculty and Staff,

Last fall, we shared our intention to undertake a comprehensive review of the university’s medical plan offerings in collaboration with members of our community to inform decisions for the 2027 medical plan year ahead of this fall’s open enrollment period. I am writing today to let you know that this work is now underway.

This initiative will be led by our Executive VP & CFO, Kim Kvaal Ed.D. and Associate VP of Human Resources and Chief People Officer, Nancy Nieraeth. In partnership with the Faculty Senate and Staff Senate, they will assemble an advisory committee of faculty and staff to participate in this important review. This effort reflects our ongoing commitment to ensuring our benefits programs effectively support the health and well-being of our employees, remain responsive to the diverse needs of our community, and are both affordable for participants and financially sustainable for the university.

Over the coming months, the committee will conduct a structured review of our medical plan, including plan design, costs, coverage options, and overall accessibility. There will also be opportunities during that time for faculty and staff to learn about the project and share feedback about what is working well and where improvements may be needed. Dr. Kvaal will bring forward the recommendations from the committee’s advisory perspective for my consideration in advance of the fall open enrollment period.

Information about opportunities to serve on the Medical Plan Advisory and Review Committee, including timelines and the nominations process, will be shared soon through the Faculty and Staff Senates. Faculty members who are not under contract during the summer months will be eligible for a modest stipend in recognition of their service, and staff participants will receive two additional vacation days in appreciation of their contributions.

Your participation in this process is important as we work together to ensure our benefits program continues to support our people and mission. I encourage you to consider serving or sharing your
perspectives as opportunities arise.

Thank you for your continued contributions to Puget Sound and for the care and commitment you show to one another. Together you embody the very best of our community.

Sincerely,

Isiaah Crawford, Ph.D. | President