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 Dr. Charles Berry (BCD '73), associate dean for
academic services, was re-elected a representative to the System Employee Benefits Advisory Committee. He will represent employees of The Texas A&M University System
Health Science Center. Gary Henryson, communications production manager in HSC communications, was appointed to serve as an ex officio member.
"The health science center is blessed with very skilled and knowledgeable individuals," said Dr. Nancy Dickey, HSC president and vice chancellor for health affairs. "All
nominees were exceptional candidates, and I want to personally thank everyone who took part in the election process."
Berry has been a representative to SEBAC since 1996, serving on the full committee as well as several subcommittees. "I am both honored and humbled to be re-elected as a
voting member of SEBAC," Berry said.
Berry believes that although there have been positive changes with employee benefits over the years, this term will be particularly challenging as related to health insurance
pricing balanced with possible reduction in plan benefits. "As the Texas Legislature deals with its budget shortfall, the immediate impact on all state employees will be a
reduction in the amount of subsidy of the health insurance premium. Plus, a nationwide trend is the increasing cost of health care," Berry said.
The A&M System's health insurance plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is a self-insured plan. Therefore, a stabilization fund must be maintained to cover the
potential differential between medical costs and the amount collected in insurance premiums.
"These are difficult issues with which to deal, and SEBAC will have tough decisions to make in the next two years," Berry said. "As the HSC representative, I will continue to
support the most health insurance benefit for the least premium increase."
Berry welcomes comments, suggestions and questions regarding specific issues for SEBAC consideration. Contact him at cberry@tambcd.edu.
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