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On the Job with Disability Leaves

The Bulletin spoke with Joanne Davis, Disability Leaves Manager in Human Resources.

What do people think you do?
Most people think that I process payments and benefits for people on workman’s compensation.

What do you really do?
I deal with bargaining units when Sacramento State employees need compensation for any kind of leave that they may need to take from work. I try to maximize this compensation for what people are entitled to when they require it. I deal with maternity leave, sickness and injury. I’ve been here 11 years and I just love what I do because I get to help people every single day.

Describe your office
Our office is very cohesive. We have an open door policy which helps increase the efficiency of customer service in a timely manner. In the office we have an affirmative action director, a benefits manager, a retirement specialist, and a workman’s compensation director.

What surprises you?
That people don’t often understand the policies that affect them. Oftentimes when someone is injured or needs to take some kind of unforeseen leave, they aren’t aware of the many programs that are tied to their bargaining units that they can use. Many people don’t know that their units fight for a variety of things that benefit them when they need help.

What’s your biggest challenge?
Our biggest challenge is coordinating all the benefits processes to maximize employee compensation. It’s our job to try and get the most for those who need it.

What do you get asked the most?
“Do I have to provide a doctors note?” I hear that all the time. And yes people, you do.