Applying for Professional Development Funds

The current UCPEA contract provides $360,000 annually to be utilized by employees working in positions represented by the UCPEA in professional development (PD) activities (e.g., attending conferences/workshops, memberships for professional associations, etc.). For professional development activities occurring during FY 24, the maximum allocation per employee is $1,000 of which $500 can be used for professional membership dues. Funds must be used as a reimbursement (to the employee or the department) and cannot be used for license renewals, certifications, re-certifications, admission fees, or standardized tests.

The Professional Issues Committee administers the fund and meets twice monthly to review funding applications. It is essential to submit a PD application 15 calendar days prior to the activity or membership due date and submit the reimbursement no later than 28 calendar days after the PD activity date. Timely submission for reimbursement is how we are able to keep an accurate balance of what is awarded versus what is disbursed. For the same reason, it is also essential to let the UCPEA office know if your PD award is not used. If you submit for reimbursement (or expense reallocation) more than 28 calendar days after the end of the PD activity date, you will be unable to utilize the awarded funds.

With the widespread usage of department Procards and Travel Cards, the reallocation of expenses has recently been used more frequently than reimbursements. Members are encouraged to reach out to the fiscal officer in their department as they plan their professional development activities and/or membership dues for a professional organization. However, this does not affect the deadlines mentioned above.

UCPEA Members can apply for professional development fund awards via the UConn HR-hosted SharePoint site: