Meet the benefits team

Ever wondered who are the members of the benefits team and what they do? In this Q&A, meet the whole team, learn some fun facts about each member and how they can assist you.

What is the benefits team responsible for?

We assist faculty and staff with their insurance, retirement and leave benefits. This includes providing resources, consultations and supporting administration so employees can make good informed decisions for themselves and their family and complete the necessary actions.

We also help individuals navigate many benefits processes for onboarding (new employee orientation), special enrollments, life events, offboarding (separations/retirements) and leave of absence, including family medical, disability, leave without pay and more.

Benefits administration manages various enrollment systems, data loads, deduction management and reconciliations. Benefits staff work closely with other departments and leadership personnel, various vendors and governing bodies to administer benefits, in accordance with complex rules and regulations. Basically, we do a lot!

Who are the people on the benefits team?

Krissy Kaylor ’91, benefits director

“I have been the benefits director at the University since 2015, coming from Clemson University’s HR Department with my family. My husband Karl Kaylor is also at the University. I enjoy spending time with family, friends, visiting parks and doing crafts. One of the most rewarding things I do is help employees navigate retirement. It is an exciting next step and time of celebration for their many accomplishments and dedication to the University. I am fortunate to have such an awesome team of staff, who genuinely care and make a difference every day to our Niner Nation family.”

Gina Ewart, benefits consultant

“After graduating from Kings College in Charlotte many years ago, I landed my first position in human resources. Now almost 40 years later, I still love HR and its many facets. Within the Benefits Department, I am responsible for retirement consulting and processing for all employees (faculty and staff). I truly enjoy helping employees with the complexities of the next phase of their lives. In 2023, I will celebrate my 20th year here at UNC Charlotte.

In my spare time, I absolutely love traveling and going to the beach with my friends and family. My daughter is expecting her first child in the spring. I can’t wait to thoroughly spoil this precious child.”

Shay McLean, benefits counselor

“I am a Winston-Salem State University alumna and completed my MBA here at UNC Charlotte in May 2022 with a concentration in management. I began working with the University right after the program. However, I have been in the world of HR since I was a work-study student at WSSU in 2017. I enjoy watching TV and being social with friends and family in my spare time. I’m also a huge comic book and anime fan. I love working with the University, and my team is amazing. My favorite part about my job is I get to help welcome employees as they start their journey at Niner Nation!”

Marina LeLeux, benefits consultant and bilingual consultant

“I am a certified employee benefits specialist from the International Foundation of Employee Benefits and Wharton University of Pennsylvania. My bachelor’s degree is in business administration from the University of Phoenix.

I have a favorite child who graduated from UNC Charlotte Belk School of Business.

I enjoy reading and running but not at the same time.”

Maria Sanchez, benefits and bilingual consultant

“My prior background was in social work and benefits for over 25 years. In 2020 in the middle of the pandemic, we relocated to be closer to our adult children in North Carolina. I chose to seek a new career, which allowed me to continue doing what I love, which is helping others. Currently, I’m continuing my education through UNC Charlotte in Human Resources.

In my free time, we are usually at the race track with one of our two children who are both involved with different NASCAR teams. I also enjoy traveling and look forward to continuing exploring this beautiful state and learning all about the region.”

Yevone Sherrill, benefits counselor

“I dedicate much of my work to the Affordable Care Act benefits administration, leave of absence and general benefits service and special projects.”

Jen Tronzo, ebenefits systems analyst

“I’m a graduate of UMBC and currently seeking my M.S. in HR. I have been with UNC Charlotte since November 2021.”

What are some main reasons employees should reach out to the benefits team?

We help with the new hire elections, changes to benefits for qualifying life events, assistance with leave of absence and to explore or initiate retirement benefits.

What is something people may not know about the team?

We work with many people who are employed or who have personal connections to the University, such as employees, alumni, students and parents of graduates. We enjoy opportunities to learn and share more about the University and all of the various benefits and services available to employees, their families and the public.

Where can someone find the Benefits Office on campus?

The Benefits Office is located on the second floor of King Building, Room 207. We can be reached through email at benefits@uncc.edu and by phone at 704-687-8134.

What is some advice that you would give prospective employees?

Come visit UNC Charlotte. Not only do we have great benefits, but we have a beautiful campus and an amazing benefits team here to help you.