State Division Candidate (Higher Education; 2-Year Term)

Colorado Mountain College

Jennifer Victor is Assistant Director of Human Resources for Colorado Mountain College.

Education/Special Courses/Certifications

Bachelor of Science, Regis University

Master of Science, Colorado State University System

Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from HRCI

Certified Payroll Professional certification from American Payroll Association

 Employment History

Colorado Mountain College, 2011 – Present:

• Assistant Director of Human Resources, 2022 – Present
• Benefits Manager, 2018 – 2022
• Human Resources Generalist, 2017 – 2018
• Payroll Specialist, 2012 – 2017
• Executive Administrative Assistant, 2011 – 2012

Finance Specialist – Accounting Supervisor, Garfield County, 2009 – 2011

Accounting Clerk – Assistant Finance Director, Town of Carbondale, 2004 – 2008

 Organizational Affiliations/Achievements

College and University Professionals Association - HR

Society for Human Resource Management

American Mensa

Responses

Interest in Serving as a PERA Trustee

I have been an active PERA member since 2011 and would like to contribute to the PERA community by serving on the board. PERA has a profound impact on the lives of so many employees in the state. I would like to represent the Western Slope as our concerns and experiences sometimes differ from those in more populated regions. In my position in Human Resources, I regularly correspond with our employees regarding benefits which include retirement, life and health, and I make recommendations to our leadership on our program offerings.

Challenges/Opportunities Facing PERA

PERA has been in the news in the last several years regarding its financial situation. I believe the Board has made great strides in addressing the issues and making a plan for the future. That work is ongoing and will remain a challenge/opportunity for years to come as we continue to progress through uncertain economic times. The Board needs to provide balance between supporting its retirees and keeping a healthy fund balance, a task which requires collaboration from all members. Finally, the employer administration of the plan is complicated. I would like to explore opportunities to ease the burden on employers to avoid errors in onboarding and administration.

Role of a Trustee

The role of a trustee is to bring thoughtful input to discussions, so that the board as a whole can provide guidance to PERA staff. No single board member acts on their own. Decisions made by the Board affect its members but also may have further effects on the State. Decisions need to be made for the greater good, and active discussions need to take place in an open and accepting environment.