In October 2000, Ryan Companies began a new professional development initiative for the administrative staff. It is based on the results of an employee survey, which identified specific needs of Ryan's administrative staff.

This initiative includes encouragement to join professional organizations such as IAAP, participate in the Certified Professional Secretaries and Certified Administrative Professionals programs and attend quarterly staffmeetings for all Minneapolis administrative employees. Ryan Companies also encourages the staff to attend Ryan University, an employee program offering professional course curriculum, and participate in Ryan's administrative mentoring program. Ryan's main goal is to provide moreopportunities, increase recognition and promote better communication among the administrative staff.

"The performance of our administrative staff, which represents 25% of the company's employees, has been enhanced significantly as a result of these programs," says Cindy Gross, administrative manager for the Ryan Cos.