At Simmons University, we recognize the vital contributions of our adjunct faculty and are committed to fostering an environment where you feel valued, supported, and connected. We offer a range of benefits and resources to enhance your experience and well-being as a member of our academic community.
Compensation
In Fall 2024, the Office of the Provost implemented an average salary increase of approximately 5% across all adjunct faculty categories. Furthermore, Simmons University has committed to extending to adjunct faculty any across-the-board salary adjustments approved for faculty and staff, contingent upon approval by the Board of Trustees.
Your Benefits at a Glance
Well-Being and Work-Life Balance
Sick Time – Adjunct faculty accrue one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked up to 40 hours of paid sick time per year. Contact your School’s Operations Manager to access paid sick time.
AllOne Health Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Adjunct faculty and their family members may utilize the EAP for a variety of free and confidential offerings including 10 free mental health counseling sessions, self help resources, child and eldercare consultations, work/life resources and referrals, legal and financial consultations, and much more.
UrbanSitter Membership – UrbanSitter connects you with services for every household’s needs including child care, pet sitters, senior care, household management, and tutoring. Enroll using your Simmons email address to access this benefit.
Professional Growth & Support
Professional Development Funding – Adjunct faculty may receive up to $500 for professional development activities completed during their teaching semester.
Orientation for New Faculty – Adjunct faculty new to Simmons are encouraged to participate in faculty orientation activities organized by the Center for Faculty Excellence and/or specific academic units.
Technology Support – Simmons Technology is committed to providing reliable services, innovative solutions, and excellent support to the entire Simmons community. Please visit servicedesk.simmons.edu to make service requests.
Education & Financial Benefits
Tuition Remission – Adjunct faculty may take one undergraduate course (maximum of 4 credits) within the semester they teach at no cost. After one year of service, adjunct faculty may take one graduate level course at no cost (excludes 2U enabled courses).
Savi Public Service Loan Forgiveness – Simmons has partnered with TIAA and Savi to find the best federal repayment and forgiveness programs for you not only to strengthen your financial footing, but also to position you for student loan forgiveness.
TIAA Defined Contribution Retirement Plan – To support your retirement savings goals, adjunct faculty may contribute pre-tax earnings to the Simmons 403(b) plan up to IRS limits.
Course Cancellation Compensation – Simmons will pay adjunct faculty $300 if an assigned course is canceled within two weeks of the start date (excludes mentors, supervisors, clinical, or lab instructors).
Campus & Lifestyle Perks
Your Simmons ID card entitles you to additional benefits such as:
- Discounted Simmons parking garage rates
- Simmons University Library privileges
- Access to the Holmes Sports and Fitness Center
- Entrance to the MFA and Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
- New York Times and Boston Globe subscriptions
- Travel Assistance services
- Discounted memberships at local gyms
- Simmons bookstore discounts
- Local hotel discounts
- Auto rental discounts
- Zipcar reduced membership fees
- Bank and Credit Union programs
- Technology discounts
- Canobie Lake Park discounted passes
- Customized BenefitHub discounts
We’re Here for You
Your contributions make a difference. For more details or to take advantage of these resources, visit the Simmons Benefits & Compensation web page or contact [email protected].
Your Voice Matters!
The relationship between Simmons and our adjunct faculty is an important one, and one we take very seriously. When concerns around compensation were raised in 2024, we listened and took action. We have a well-established track record of listening to your concerns and tackling the issues together. We would like to continue that approach.
Your participation in the upcoming union election is crucial. By casting your vote, you will share your opinion on, and help shape, the future of our adjunct workplace culture going forward. Your vote is essential in ensuring we maintain a collaborative and supportive workplace for everyone. We urge you to vote and make your voice heard!