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With the support of Wake Forest President Susan Wente and Executive Vice President Jackie Travisano, the University will be implementing updated holiday guidelines for the Reynolda campus, including a two-week winter break. 

“Even with a generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program, it is essential to create purposeful time for our campus colleagues to rest and recharge,” said Wente. “I know from talking to many of our staff that extending our winter break is a meaningful addition to the great employee benefits we offer. It is my sincere hope that providing this additional time contributes to employee wellbeing and further demonstrates our commitment to caring for our people.” 

“While most staff will look forward to the ongoing extension of our winter break, it’s important that we recognize and share appreciation of colleagues whose essential work will require them to report to campus during winter break,” said Travisano. Those who are required to perform work during the newly extended winter break will be eligible for holiday pay during these additional days.  

In summary, the University will observe the following staff holidays in accordance with these updated guidelines: 

  • New Year’s Day: Observed on Jan. 1 as part of Winter Break.
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Always observed on the third Monday of January. 
  • Memorial Day: Always observed on the last Monday of May. 
  • Juneteenth: Observed on June 19. If June 19 falls on a Saturday, it will be observed the preceding Friday. If June 19 falls on a Sunday, it will be observed the following Monday. 
  • Independence Day: Observed on July 4. If July 4 falls on a Saturday, it will be observed the preceding Friday. If July 4 falls on a Sunday, it will be observed the following Monday. 
  • Labor Day: Always observed on the first Monday of September. Labor Day is a staff holiday only; classes are typically in session.  
  • Thanksgiving: Always observed on the fourth Thursday and the following Friday in November. 
  • Winter Break: Two full weeks of campus closure. Observed dates depend on which day Jan. 1 falls.

See Winter Break Schedules in the Holidays and Premium Pay policy

Human Resources will continue to distribute an annual holiday calendar, which is available at hr.wfu.edu/holidays.

Observation of these holidays is subject to change at the discretion of the University. 

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