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Kathryn Mayer

Senior Specialist, B2C Content

Kathryn Mayer is responsible for SHRM’s total rewards coverage and contributes to HR Quarterly and All Things Work. She has covered the health and benefits industry since 2011 and has served as senior benefits editor and chair of the Health & Benefits Leadership Conference at Human Resource Executive, editor-in-chief of Employee Benefit News, and executive managing editor at BenefitsPro. Her award-winning stories have been recognized by the Jesse H. Neal Award, the American Society of Business Publication Editors, and the National Federation of Press Women. She is the coauthor of the nonfiction book Disneyland on the Mountain: Walt, the Environmentalists, and the Ski Resort That Never Was (Rowman & Littlefield, 2023).

Kathryn Mayer

Education:

University of Denver, MLS, Creative Writing
University of Denver, B.A., Journalism and English
 

Honors & Awards: 

Baldur Book Award (2023)

American Society of Business Publication Editors (ASBPE) Regional Gold Award, Individual Profile (2022, 2018)
ASBPE Regional Gold Award, Online Single Topic Coverage (2022)
ASBPE National Silver Award, Trade Show/Conference Coverage (2020)
ASBPE Regional Gold Award, Trade Show/Conference Coverage (2020)
ASBPE Regional Bronze Award, Online Single Topic Coverage (2020)
Jesse H. Neal Award (2019)
National Federation of Press Women First Place, Personality Profile (2018)
ASBPE Regional Silver Award, Social Media Presence (2018)
Colorado Press Women: Various editing, writing honors (2009-2011)
National Federation of Press Women: Various editing, writing honors (2009-2011)

 

Noteworthy Articles:

Are Pensions Poised to Make a Comeback?
This article discusses the potential resurgence of defined-benefit pension plans. Factors contributing to this trend include economic uncertainty, employee demand for secure retirement options, and employer efforts to attract and retain talent. Some companies are exploring hybrid plans combining defined-benefit and defined-contribution elements to balance costs and benefits.

Employers Are Turning to a New Perk: Menopause Benefits
This article highlights a growing trend of employers offering menopause-specific benefits to support female employees. Companies like Microsoft provide hormone therapy, menopause leave, and access to specialists. The initiative aims to address a significant yet often overlooked health issue, improving workplace inclusivity and reducing economic impacts from menopause-related productivity losses.

A Growing Benefits Trend: Time Off for Pregnancy Loss
Employers are increasingly offering time off and support for employees experiencing pregnancy loss. This trend acknowledges the emotional and physical toll of such events, providing paid leave and resources like counseling. The move aims to foster a compassionate workplace culture and support employee well-being during difficult times.

Disney Wants Workers Back in the Office; Will Other Employers Follow?
Disney's push for employees to return to the office may influence other companies to reassess remote work policies. The article explores the potential ripple effects on workplace dynamics, employee preferences, and productivity. As companies navigate post-pandemic work models, balancing flexibility and in-person collaboration remains a key challenge.