National college savings program Sallie Mae attained its second Above and Beyond Award for support of military employees from Delaware’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) at a recent event in Dover.

First scoring the honor in August 2016, Sallie Mae was recognized for its continued backing of military service members among its own ranks. In addition, Sallie Mae recommitted to the U.S. National Guard and Reserve, underscoring its promise to equip managers with effective tools for training and transitioning.

“Sallie Mae is a workplace leader in supporting those who selflessly serve our country, and we are pleased to count the company among our 2017 Above and Beyond Award recipients,” Gary Stockbridge, state chair for Delaware ESGR, said. “By assisting employees in the military, Sallie Mae contributes to national security and helps protect our liberty and freedom.”

The organization goes above and beyond minimum federal requirements by continuing to pay salaries and benefits for its employees who are on active duty. Fewer than one-fifth (19 percent) of U.S. employers practice this, according to the Society for Human Resource Management.

CEO and Chairman Raymond Quinlan stressed that Sallie Mae’s work force members need to know that “their willingness to serve won’t jeopardize their job.”

“We are immensely grateful for the service our military employees provide, both inside and outside of the workplace, and we are honored to receive this award from the Delaware ESGR,” Quinlan said.