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University Settlement has been named to Newsweek’s 2026 list of America’s Greatest Midsize Workplaces, the social settlement announced today.
Newsweek’s comprehensive study evaluated more than 4,700 companies based in the United States and employing between 500 and 1,000 people. Companies were scored across six comprehensive categories of workplace satisfaction, which include Working Environment, Culture & Belonging, Compensation & Benefits, Work-Life Balance, Career Progression & Training, and Company Culture.
University Settlement is one of just 15 non-profit organizations included in Newsweek’s list of 500 companies. Founded in 1886 as the first settlement house in the United States, University Settlement is currently celebrating its 140th birthday.
“We are thrilled by this recognition, and grateful to Newsweek for including us on this list,” said Melissa Aase, Chief Executive Officer, University Settlement. “We see our people as our greatest resource, and we are proud to foster a workplace culture where everyone is supported to do world-class work that makes a difference in our neighborhoods, where everyone’s voice matters and helps guide the organization, and where people of every kind of background feel that they belong.”
“Ensuring that our organization is a great place to work is a vital part of how we help build stronger communities in New York City,” said Michelle Green, Chief People Officer, University Settlement. “We believe in hiring from within the communities we serve, and training and promoting from within. We create a culture of growth by inviting staff at all levels to express their opinions, connecting staff to relevant training opportunities, and training managers to provide effective and supportive feedback.”
“Our diversity is our strength, and we continue to recognize that building greater equity, inclusion, and belonging within our organization and for everyone who works here is fundamental to our mission,” said Steven Portericker, Chief Program and Equity Officer, University Settlement. “Our work is about building stronger relationships between neighbors, and our success often grows out of the relationships we build with our coworkers. We are proud to accept this honor in recognition that building a great place to work is a collective and collaborative project we all share with each of our colleagues.”
“Midsize companies are the unsung engine of the American economy, combining enterprise-level resources with the agility to innovate rapidly. Newsweek’s ranking cuts through the corporate noise, using rigorous data to spotlight the midmarket leaders driving sustainable growth, exceptional workplace cultures and true financial integrity. It’s an essential guide for investors, partners, and job seekers alike,” said Jennifer H. Cunningham, Newsweek Editor-In-Chief.