Page 100 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2018

Offers Leadership/Educational Opportunities
story by Lynn Lofton
photo courtesy of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort
Development of community, development of women and development of education
Scarlet Pearl CEO LuAnn Pappas
comprise the corporate philosophy of Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort, according to CEO LuAnn Pappas. And the company doesn’t just pay lip service to those ideals.
“It’s an important part of our DNA,” Pappas said. “We believe that if we practice this philosophy, the revenue will come naturally. We offer full tuition reimbursement from the company, which is unheard of in this industry.”
Noting that it’s all about community, she points out that Scarlet Pearl never misses an opportunity to be involved with non-profit organizations and has established Scarlet Pearl Cares. Also, with women making up 54 percent of their work force, the company partners with Global Gaming Women and the Lighthouse Business & Professional Women.
While Scarlet Pearl provides opportunities for all employees, Pappas says they want to ensure they provide leadership opportunities
for women and help with life/work balance because women often face additional challenges.
The company tries to make educational opportunities as convenient as possible. “Our newest program is offering GED classes on the property,” Pappas said, “and
I’m proud to say we have nine participants.”
There are also educational opportunities internally as employees are encouraged to cross train. For instance, the director of finance is getting a Master’s degree in marketing and will move into that discipline for the company.
“We’re very much concerned about healthy living, so we’ve partnered with a gym and have an on-site weight loss program,” Pappas said. “Our wonderful chef does cooking demonstrations for healthy meals and provides recipes.”
Maternity and family leave time are an important part of the benefits. One of the department directors was able to work from home while preparing for the birth of her child. Additionally, a lactate room is provided on the property for nursing mothers.
Starting next month, the casino will have an on-site clinic with a nurse practitioner under the direction of a medical doctor. Basic health needs can be addressed and prescriptions will be delivered to the casino for employees’
convenience.
“We do have some unusual benefits
because we believe the more we can free employees’ minds of every day cares, the better they can perform their duties,” the CEO added.
9380 Central Ave., D’Iberville 888.752.9772 www.scarletpearlcasino.com
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