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

University of Colorado

Lisa Landis is Associate Vice President of Employee Services for the University of Colorado.

Education/Special Courses/Certifications

B.A., University of Colorado Boulder

M.B.A., University of Colorado Denver

Employment History

University of Colorado, 1999-Present:

• Associate Vice President of Employee Services, 2022-Present
• Assistant/Associate Vice Chancellor Boulder campus, 2017-2022
• Policy Consultant, 2016-2017
• Assistant/Associate Vice President of Employee Services, 2013-2016
• Human Resources Director, 2008-2013
• HR Project Manager, 2007-2008
• HR Data and Security Analyst, 2004-2007
• Procurement Coordinator, 1999-2004

Organizational Affiliations/Achievements

Member, Arvada Center Board of Directors, 2021‐Present

TIAA Advisory Board, 2024-Present

University of Colorado Excellence in Leadership Program, 2008‐2016

TIAA HR Leadership Exchange, 2010‐Present

Aon Hewitt Pathfinders, 2013‐Present

Volunteer, The Friends of Barnabas Foundation, Little Heart Project, 2010 – 2014

Responses

Interest in Serving as a PERA Trustee

I am interested in serving on PERA’s Board of Trustees which will allow me to contribute my expertise and experience to the governance of PERA’s benefits and programs. My role on the Board of Trustees would allow me to play a crucial role and make an impact in setting strategic investment direction and ensuring accountability on behalf of all current and future PERA retirees. In my current role, I am responsible for the CU benefit plans, including oversight of $6 billion in retirement plan assets outside of PERA.

Challenges/Opportunities Facing PERA

PERA, as with other public pension systems, faces funding shortfalls due to factors such as underestimating future liabilities, poor investment returns, and demographic shifts (e.g., aging population, longer life expectancies). This can lead to pressure on state budgets and potential benefit cuts or increased contributions for employees.

PERA has opportunities to implement reforms and innovative strategies to address funding challenges, such as adjusting benefit structures, increasing contributions, diversifying investment strategies, and exploring alternative revenue sources. Adapting PERA's policies and practices to accommodate changing workforce dynamics, such as increasing mobility, alternative work arrangements, and longer careers, can help ensure the continued relevance and effectiveness of the pension system. By collaborating with stakeholders, including employees, retirees, policymakers, and taxpayers, PERA can develop and implement solutions that balance the interests of all parties and ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension system.

Role of a Trustee

My role on PERA’s Board of Trustees would entail serving as a member of the governing body responsible for overseeing and guiding the operations, policies, and strategic direction of an organization. As a trustee, I would have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the organization and its stakeholders. This includes exercising due diligence in financial oversight, ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, and safeguarding the organization's assets.