Team Member Spotlight: Erin O'Donnell, Corporate Benefits Manager

For 14 years, Erin O'Donnell has been a key figure in the HR department of Presbyterian Senior Living (PSL), her current role is that of Corporate Benefits Manager. For PSL’s team of several thousand Erin’s work is vital: she oversees all the benefits and perks programs offered, impacting every team member’s life daily even if they aren’t aware of it! Health, vision and dental insurance; the EAP and professional development and tuition reimbursement programs; discounts and countless other benefits are all under her umbrella. Erin’s professional journey, which began shortly after she completed her academic studies, is the story of dedication, growth, and the pursuit of meaningful work.

A Career Rooted in Family and Growth

Erin's journey into the world of Human Resources (HR) began with a strong educational foundation. She pursued a degree in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resources and further enhanced her knowledge with a Master’s degree in Employment and Labor Relations. Fresh out of grad school in the summer of 2010, Erin was eager to apply her academic learning in a practical setting. Just six months later, she joined PSL at the age of 23.

Initially, her role at PSL might have seemed like a typical entry level HR job, but Erin quickly realized that PSL offered more than just employment—it provided a career. "I really wanted a career, not just a job," Erin reflects. Over the years, PSL has given her numerous opportunities for growth and development, with each day bringing new challenges that she eagerly embraces. Her passion for problem-solving and her love for tackling challenges have kept her engaged and motivated throughout her tenure. She also appreciates working for a mission-based, senior-focused organization that cares for all its residents and team members. Erin is well known at the Corporate Office, and across the organization, for her friendly smile, quick intelligence and warm demeanor. 

Responsibilities and Impact

As the Corporate Benefits Manager, Erin's role is multifaceted, involving a wide range of responsibilities. She manages the benefits leave and retirement administration, oversees the workers' compensation program, and handles OSHA reporting. Additionally, Erin serves as the system administrator for UKG (referred to internally as MyHR), and she manages the annual benefits open enrollment process.

One of the most rewarding aspects of Erin's job is her involvement in enhancing the benefits and perks package for PSL team members. Each year, she and her team review the annual employee survey to identify new benefits that align with the needs of their team members. Recent additions include a high deductible health plan with a Health Savings Account (HSA) funded by PSL, a 403(b) employer match of up to 4%, and a comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP) wellness initiative, now available to all PSL team members, including those working on a PRN (as-needed) basis.

Erin is particularly passionate about the EAP wellness program, which she considers one of her favorite benefits. Recognizing the importance of emotional wellness, especially in the healthcare profession, PSL has partnered with the Thrive Wellness Program to offer a range of resources, including self-care tips, anxiety and stress management techniques, and yoga and meditation videos. "Our team members need to feel supported and have time to de-stress and care for themselves," Erin emphasizes, highlighting the significance of these resources in fostering a healthy work-life balance.

Making a Difference

Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, Erin takes pride in the tangible impact her work has on the lives of PSL team members. One such example is the Vocation Program, offered in partnership with the Board of Pensions. This program provides student loan reimbursement to eligible team members, with some receiving up to $25,000 over five years. Erin shares the story of a colleague who successfully applied for this program and is now receiving direct payments toward her student loans. "It’s incredible to see the relief and happiness that comes from such support," Erin notes.

Despite the program's benefits, Erin acknowledges that it remains underutilized and hopes to raise awareness among more team members. "It’s awesome that PSL can provide such support," she adds, underscoring the importance of making these opportunities well-known across the entire PSL team.

Personal Experience with PSL Benefits

Erin doesn’t just manage benefits—she uses them herself, which gives her a unique perspective on their value. She is enrolled in PSL’s medical and prescription programs and actively participates in the Call to Health program, which helps lower her deductible each year. In addition to the health benefits, Erin takes advantage of the rewards program, earning gift cards that she uses to buy new running sneakers annually–something every health director at PSL will be happy to hear! She also recently used the Blue365 program to get $50 off a new Fitbit, highlighting how PSL's benefits contribute to her overall well-being.

The Delta Dental Life Perks program is another favorite of Erin’s, allowing her to purchase discounted movie tickets and enjoy reduced prices on snacks and drinks at the theater. "It’s a great discount program, especially for someone who loves going to the movies as much as I do," Erin says with a smile.

Ongoing Professional Development

Erin’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in her active participation in various training and development programs. She is currently enrolled in the Leadership Seminar Series through Cigna, which is part of PSL's EAP program. These monthly seminars cover a range of topics, from civility and respect at work to leading multiple generations in the workplace. Erin finds these resources invaluable, regardless of one’s position within the organization. "We’re all leaders in our own way, and these seminars really tie back to our overall PSL values," she explains.

In addition to her leadership training, Erin has also pursued external certifications, such as the SHRM certification, which she completed through a 13-week study group. PSL supported her efforts by reimbursing the tuition costs upon her successful completion of the program. This certification expanded Erin’s HR knowledge beyond her usual focus on benefits and leave administration, allowing her to delve into areas such as employee handbooks, policies, and procedures.

Committee Involvement

Erin’s dedication to PSL extends beyond her official role. She is an active member of the Data Analytics Committee, which aims to streamline data and evaluate current processes for better user experiences. This committee work provides Erin with valuable exposure to different departments within PSL, including operations, clinical, and finance teams. "It’s a great way to expand my knowledge and contribute to the organization’s overall success," Erin shared.

Erin also participates in the Core HR Projects Team, which focuses on system enhancements. These committees allow her to broaden her understanding of PSL’s operations while making meaningful contributions to the organization’s continuous improvement.

Looking Ahead

As Erin O'Donnell reflects on her 14 years with PSL, it’s clear that her journey has been one of growth, learning, and making a difference. She has found a home in PSL, not just as a workplace, but as a community where she can pursue her professional goals while supporting the well-being of her colleagues.

"I’m always looking to learn and expand my knowledge," Erin says, and it’s this drive that has made her such a valuable member of the PSL team.