FMLA, Parental Leave, and Short-term Disability
- Michelle Soller
Summary of Valparaiso University FMLA, Parental Leave, and Short-Term Disability Policies and how to apply.
FMLA Summary
Valparaiso University provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for qualifying family and medical reasons. Employees are eligible if they have worked at the University for at least one year and have completed 1,250 hours of service in the past 12 months.
FMLA may be taken for:
Pregnancy, prenatal care, or birth of a child
Bonding with a newborn or newly placed adopted/foster child
Caring for a spouse, child, or parent with a serious health condition
The employee’s own serious health condition
Certain military-related needs or to care for a covered service member
FMLA may be taken intermittently or on a reduced schedule when medically necessary. Employees must give at least 30 days' notice when the need for leave is foreseeable. Medical certification and periodic updates may be required. To view the FMLA policy, click here.
How to apply for FMLA:
FMLA requests must be submitted through Lincoln Financial Group (LFG).
LFG instructions:
Employees should also notify Human Resource Services to ensure proper coordination and compliance with University procedures.
Parental Leave Summary
Valparaiso University offers six (6) weeks of paid parental leave to eligible full-time staff immediately following the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child.
Valparaiso University offers eight (8) weeks of paid parental leave to eligible full-time faculty immediately following the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child.
Key points:
Parental leave runs concurrently with FMLA if the employee is eligible.
The leave provides full pay and continuation of benefits.
How to apply for Parental Leave:
Employees must submit their leave request through Lincoln Financial Group and notify the Office of Human Resource Services.
Supporting documentation, such as a birth certificate or adoption placement papers, may be required.
LFG instructions:
This benefit supports bonding time and family adjustment during a significant life event. To view the Parental Leave policy, click here.
Short-Term Disability Summary
Valparaiso University offers a Short-Term Disability Benefit (STDB) program, administered and fully funded by Lincoln Financial Group (LFG), at no cost to employees. This benefit provides partial income replacement for up to 26 weeks for eligible regular and limited full-time employees who are unable to work due to a non-work-related personal health condition.
Key Points:
STDB is not an insurance plan and is administered at the University’s discretion.
Eligibility requires a disabling condition, active treatment by a physician, and medical documentation.
STDB runs concurrently with FMLA if applicable, but remains a separate benefit.
Payment Schedule:
Days 1–7: No payment (employees may use available vacation or sick time).
Days 8–31: 100% of pay (up to $1,200/week); vacation or sick time may be used to supplement.
Days 32–182: 60% of pay (up to $1,200/week); vacation or sick time may be used to supplement.
How to apply for Short-Term Disability:
Employees must submit their leave request through Lincoln Financial Group and notify the Office of Human Resource Services.
How to apply for Parental Leave:
Employees must submit their leave request through Lincoln Financial Group and notify the Office of Human Resource Services.
LFG instructions:
Supporting documentation by the Physician will be required.
Employees must maintain communication with LFG and HR, especially when returning with medical restrictions. To view the Short-Term Disability Policy, visit Section 5.2.8 of the Staff Handbook.
Questions or requests for support can be directed to human.resources@valpo.edu.