For the sixth year in a row, Temple has joined some of the nation's top organizations on Computerworld's annual list of the "100 Best Places to Work in IT." One of just six universities to make the list, the university jumped 37 places this year to a 53rd-place overall ranking.

"This recognition from Computerworld is testament to the continuing success of our IT staff," said Timothy O'Rourke, vice president of Computer and Financial Services at Temple. "Their professionalism and hard work is what keeps Temple one of the leading universities in the nation for technology."

The rankings were compiled by assessing each institution's success and employee satisfaction in key areas, such as career training and development, benefits, bonuses, health insurance and more.

Temple is the third-highest-ranked university on the list and placed ahead of international corporations such as FedEx, Kraft Foods and State Farm Insurance.

Computerworld praised the university’s Computer Services division for its efforts to nominate staff for awards and encourage participation in training programs and conferences. Employees are reimbursed for these pursuits and are often given time to prepare presentations during the workday. The 20 training days allowed per year was the highest among all institutions listed.

"Our staff members take pride in maintaining their position as leaders in the IT industry," said O'Rourke. "They are excellent representatives of the university."

The rankings also touted Temple’s tuition remission program, in which employees pay no tuition for all undergraduate and graduate courses at the university. In addition, spouses of Temple employees pay only half tuition, while their children can receive up to 10 semesters at no cost.

In keeping with its tradition of diversity, Temple was ranked ninth in percentage of minority managers and 15th in percentage of minority employees, both improvements since last year's rankings. The university ranked first in the Middle Atlantic Region in both categories.

— Kyle Bagenstose