Drexel University Leave of Absence
In a situation in which an employee needs to take a leave of absence, there are two options, depending on the employee's length of service:
- FMLA (Family and Medical Leave Act) – For employees who have been at the University at least one year who have a qualifying reason for a leave of absence
- Non-FMLA – For employees who do not meet the minimum requirements for FMLA leave but who meet the qualifying reasons for a leave of absence or for employees who need additional time off after their FMLA leave has expired
In either case, we recommend making an appointment with HR to discuss your leave of absence. To make an appointment, contact Keyanah Jones at kaj32@drexel.edu or 215-895-1316. If you need to apply for a Family and Medical Leave, please contact The Hartford at 1-888-485-7332.
Effective January 5, 2009, the City of Philadelphia adopted a new ordinance called "Entitlement to Leave Due to Domestic or Sexual Violence [PDF]." If you, or a family or household member, have been the victim of domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking you may be entitled to take certain amounts of unpaid leave from work. Learn more about your rights to unpaid leave due to domestic or sexual violence on the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations website.
FMLA
The Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) is a federal government act that applies to employers who employ 50 or more employees and public agencies. Covered employers are required to provide eligible employees up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave each year.
Employees who have been employed by Drexel University for at least twelve months (this employment period does not have to be consecutive) and have performed at least 1,250 hours of service during that time are eligible.
The FMLA also requires covered employers to continue health benefits coverage during the leave. After completion of the leave, the employee must be restored to the same or an equivalent position at the University.
For more information, read our FMLA policy.
Non-FMLA
This policy was established so employees without a full year of service at the University could request time off up to a maximum of 12 weeks, with or without pay, for an event that qualifies under the Family and Medical Leave Act. After the approved leave is exhausted, an employee may return to her/his position if it is still open.
The Non-FMLA benefit is also available to employees who were eligible for FMLA, but need additional time off after the 12 weeks of FMLA have expired.
For more information, read our Non-FMLA policy.