Human Resources

Employment Policies

These policies have been created to support Hofstra’s mission to recruit and retain a diverse academic community of students, faculty, staff, and administrators respectful of the contributions and dignity of each of its members. These policies are subject to change at the University’s discretion.

Please Note: Summary of Policies as determined by applicable Collective Bargaining Agreements

Hofstra University recognizes and supports nursing parents who wish to express breast milk upon their return to work. This policy is established in accordance with federal, state and local laws to outline access to appropriate spaces for nursing mothers to express breast milk during work hours.

Amount and Frequency of Time Needed
For up to three years following the birth of a nursing child, employees who are nursing mothers are permitted to use reasonable unpaid or paid break or mealtimes for the purpose of expressing breast milk. The duration and frequency of nursing breaks may vary depending upon the nursing mother’s personal needs. Generally, each break will be no less than 20-30 minutes (although employees can elect shorter break periods) and, if requested, breaks will be granted at least once every three hours.

Employees should notify their supervisors in advance, to ensure appropriate coverage during the employee’s absence from the workplace. Supervisors are encouraged to be supportive of an employee’s request to leave the workplace to express milk. If there are issues related to break schedules, supervisors should contact the Office of Human Resources.

Lactation Rooms
Hofstra provides designated lactation rooms throughout the North and South campuses as outlined below. All designated lactation rooms are private and have locking doors, an electrical outlet, a chair, table or flat surface, running water or are in close proximity to running water.

North Campus

  • Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine; Room W121 (for Medical School use)
  • Sondra and David S. Mack Student Center; Room SD 016D

South Campus

  • Frank G. Zarb School of Business; Guthart Hall; Room 102
  • Science and Innovation Center; Room 410A

Alternate Rooms for Lactation
Employees who believe that a designated lactation room is not in close proximity to their workplace can contact the Office of Human Resources to assist with identifying a temporary lactation space.

Storage of Breast Milk
Employees may store breast milk in refrigerators in their work area provided that it is stored in closed containers that are brought home each day at the end of the employee’s workday. The University is not responsible for the safekeeping of breast milk stored anywhere on campus.

Non-Discrimination
Hofstra will not discriminate or retaliate in any way against an employee who chooses to express breast milk in the workplace. An employee who believes they have experienced discrimination or retaliation should consult the Hofstra Non-Discrimination policy.

Hofstra University maintains workers' compensation insurance, in compliance with New York state law, for all eligible employees who suffer work-related injury or illness. Employees must immediately report any workplace accident or injury to their supervisor, who must complete an Incident Report Form. They must also contact the Office of Human Resources at 516-463-6859.