Cornell University has been named one of the best employers for workers over the age of 50, according to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP).

Each year, the association honors 50 employers in the United States for their practices and policies for mature workers with its "AARP Best Employers for Workers Over 50" list. Cornell is ranked No. 5 among the 50 honorees listed this year, and it is the only college or university to be named from New York state.

"AARP's recognition reinforces Cornell's commitment to addressing work, life and family challenges for its diverse employee population," said Lynette Chappell-Williams, director of the Cornell Office of Workforce Diversity, Equity and Life Quality. "The issues AARP considered -- recruitment strategies, flexible work options, workplace accommodations, training and development opportunities, and a wealth of health, medical and retirement benefits -- are some of the programs that the university has had in place for several years. Cornell continues to implement innovative programs to address the needs of its workers over 50 as well as all of its employees."

Now entering its fifth year, this awards program reflects AARP's interest in encouraging applications from a variety of employers, from both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors, according to Chappell-Williams.

The importance of older workers in the labor force will become more crucial as the share of Americans age 50 years and older increases. By 2012, about 20 percent of the people working in the United States will be 55 years and older, up from just 12 percent in 1992, according to AARP. As the share of younger workers continues to decline, attracting and retaining mature, experienced employees will become increasingly critical for employers who seek to retain a competitive edge in today's marketplace.

The award will be presented Sept. 22 at a special AARP Awards Dinner at the Drake Hotel in Chicago. Mary George Opperman, Cornell vice president for human resources, and Chappell-Williams will accept the award for the university. For more information about the AARP "Best Employer" program, visit: http://www.aarp.org/money/careers/employerresourcecenter/bestemployers/.