Who is eligible?

Throughout the application, review and award processes, the applicant must:

  1. be an SOM career staff employee,
  2. who works 50% or more time,
  3. has completed their probationary period,
  4. has a current performance evaluation rating of satisfactory or better,
  5. be on pay status.
For what kind of courses will grants be given?

WINGS provides tuition assistance for “career-related programs.” Career–related programs are those that prepare an employee for additional assignments or positions within the University. Examples include:

  • Degree or certificate-granting programs in such fields as management, finance or biotechnology.
  • Workshops or seminars in areas such as management, human resources or organizational development.
  • Conferences focusing on the latest updates or advances in technology or therapies for employees working in a related field.

WINGS will NOT provide funding for:

  • Assistance for entrance exams or related test preparation such as the MCAT, GRE, etc.
  • Professional licensure programs or costs.
  • Thesis activities or practicums.
  • More than one grant for the same course.
  • Books, lab fees, travel-related expenses or any other non-tuition related expense.
What expenses are covered?

WINGS will provide grants not to exceed $500 per quarter (or $2000 per fiscal year) for each employee-participant to cover tuition costs. Grant awards will vary depending on how many applications are received, with the average being $300-$400.  WINGS will not provide grant money for books, lab fees, travel-related expenses or any other non-tuition related expense.

Please note: Funding is not guaranteed, but we do our best to provide funding to as many applicants as possible.
How do I pay for my course or conference?

WINGS is a tuition reimbursement program.  Grantees must pay for courses, conferences, and other professional development opportunities up front, and upon completion of the course, they may apply for reimbursement through MyExpense.*

Please note:

  • We can only reimburse the employee who was granted the WINGS award.
  • We cannot reimburse departments or other individuals.
  • You must still be an eligible employee (as defined above) at the time reimbursement is made.

*If you are unable to pay for your course and wait for reimbursement, please contact WINGS Program Coordinator, Shiloh Elias to discuss an exception.
How do I submit for reimbursement?

When an applicant is sent their award letter which informs them of the amount of their WINGS grant, they will also receive the "WINGS Reimbursement Guide", which will provide a complete set of instructions as to how to submit their request for reimbursement in MyExpense.

WINGS grant award winners must still submit their request for reimbursement within 45 days of completing their course or other employee development experience. Otherwise, we will assume that you have not taken the approved course, and your grant will be forfeited.

Also, the four documents described below must also be included in the MyExpense reimbursement request.

  1. Copy of the original WINGS grant award email notification
  2. Proof of course enrollment and successful course completion, C grade or better, if applicable (i.e., grade report, certificate of completion, etc.)
  3. Proof that course payment was made directly by the applicant (i.e., tuition receipt, school financial statement, paid invoice showing applicant paid course fees, etc.)
  4. A brief statement describing what you learned from the course(s) and how you will apply what you have learned to your career at the University. A post-award cycle survey will be sent to all awardees at the end of the grant period.
What if I decide not to use my grant?

You can help to support the WINGS Program by letting us know as soon as is possible if you are unable to utilize your WINGS grant, if you should be awarded one. Our resources are limited and the ability re-allocate unused funds means that we can provide grants to more staff in subsequent award cycles. We appreciate your cooperation so that we can maximize the support we provide to you and your School of Medicine peers.
What career planning resources are available to me?

One source of information about advancement is the Learning and Organization Development homepage.

You may also refer to the Online Learning resources page. Please note that it is the full responsibility of the applicant to research their course options.
Who can I contact if I have questions?

If you have any questions, please contact the WINGS Program Coordinator, Shiloh Elias.