In the coming weeks, the University will begin the process of crafting its strategic plan. Driven by the planning being done by the schools and units, the University-wide strategic plan will provide an important blueprint for identifying key priorities that will help the institution address persistent challenges and pursue meaningful opportunities for years to come. To help create a plan that meets the needs of the organization, focus groups for students, faculty, and staff will be held throughout the University community.
“The focus groups will be our opportunity to hear directly from the students, faculty, and staff at each school and unit,” says Sarah Peyre, interim provost. “We encourage everyone to be part of the University’s strategy for the future and look forward to building this plan together.”
For more information or to register for a focus group, visit the strategic plan website. Each session will be held over Zoom, but space will be limited. If you are unable to attend one of the live sessions, an online form is available on the feedback page.
In today’s issue:
For the second year in a row, the University has been recognized for its efforts to support equity and inclusivity
This month’s issue of HR Intercom highlights the Career Path Modernization employee forums presentations and more
The Frederick Douglass Institute for African and African-American Studies hosts a two-day symposium this week
There are several opportunities for faculty, staff, students, and volunteers to get a COVID-19 vaccine this month at Strong Memorial Hospital in the Outpatient Pharmacy and in Café 601, North End. Bring your University ID badge; students also need to bring their health insurance card to these clinics.
The University provides four hours of paid time off for vaccine appointments, and one day of paid time off after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine or the second dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines for employees who may experience side effects.
HR Intercom highlights CPM Employee Forum presentations and more
This month’s issue of HR Intercom, a newsletter with information about Human Resources programs and materials, includes information on the Career Path Modernization employee forums presentations, vacation payout, and more.
Check your retirement allocations
The University’s retirement 403(b) program and deferred compensation 457(b) plan have upcoming enhancements to the plans’ investment options scheduled to take place on or about September 27. Log into your TIAA account to review or make changes to your current investment allocations. TIAA also offers virtual counseling sessions for personalized retirement planning and guidance at no cost. Schedule an appointment online or by calling (800) 410-6497.
Personal finance webinar with Securian Financial
Attend a webinar on Wednesday, September 29, at noon EDT on personal finance to help you assess your current financial situation and take action toward financial wellness. Securian Financial will break it down into simple steps that help you recognize challenges, set goals, and take charge of your finances and saving. Register now.
The Frederick Douglass Institute for African and African-American Studies hosts a two-day symposium, “We Have Nothing to Lose but Our Chains: Black Study and Its Futures,” on September 24 and 25. The event, which will be held in person and streamed live, features some of the top scholars in the field discussing the trajectory of Black studies within and outside the academy. Frederick Douglass Institute Director Jeffrey McCune Jr. will present the inaugural Frederick Douglass Lecture, “The Politics of Disobedience is the Future,” at 3 p.m. EDT on September 25 to conclude the symposium. Learn more and register for the symposium, which is free and open to the public.
Careers in Data Science: Purvanshi Mehta ’20 (MS)
Join the Goergen Institute for Data Science for a “Careers in Data Science” talk with Purvanshi Mehta ’20 (MS). Mehta works in the security research group at Microsoft, deploying machine learning models to protect emails and O365 suites from phishing attacks. Learn about her career path, work projects, and tips for a career in data science. The talk takes place Friday, September 24, at 11 a.m. EDT via Zoom.
Labyrinth meditation
Enjoy a few moments of quiet, contemplative silence as you walk the labyrinth, located in Room 100 in the Interfaith Chapel on the River Campus. An ancient form of walking meditation, the labyrinth offers you an opportunity to center yourself, clear your mind and heart, and find a few moments of inner peace. Find a schedule of upcoming walks here.
Small business innovation research, technology transfer grants workshop
Do you need resources to support technology development or commercialization? Attend the “Small Business Innovation Research and Other Resources to Support University Technology Commercialization” workshop taking place on Friday, October 8, from 3 to 6 p.m. in the Class of ’62 Auditorium (G-9425), Medical Center. Register by October 1 and email Karen Grabowski with questions.
New look, features for University Events Calendar
The University Events Calendar has a refreshed look. The calendar—powered by a platform called Localist—streamlines events across the University for its community and public audiences. Anyone with a University Net ID can submit campus events by using a simple submission form. Discover resources on how to promote events and for creating calendar widgets.
Take a short tour through the newly updated first floor of the Carlson Science and Engineering Library on the River Campus Libraries Instagram. The refreshed space has new lighting, carpeting, colors, and upgraded furniture, including an assortment of new chairs and functional work surfaces.
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