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November 8, 2021

University moves to $15 minimum wage, effective November 21

The University will raise the minimum wage for all University staff to $15 per hour, effective November 21. In making this announcement, University leaders have moved up by more than a year the implementation date of the previously announced commitment to raise the minimum wage to $15. This wage increase applies to all union and non-union employees working throughout the University.

“This move to a $15 minimum wage now is the right thing to do,” said University President Sarah Mangelsdorf. “These hardworking employees are the backbone of our university’s operations and make so many important contributions to our education, research, and patient care missions, as has been especially evident throughout the pandemic. They are among the individuals who most deserve a lift right now, not a year from now.”

Also in today’s issue:

  • University IT reinforces the importance of keeping University employee badges and student IDs secure
  • The David T. Kearns Center is holding a series of events celebrating “First-Gen Week”
  • Arts in the Loop is hosting a professional development workshop series for visual and performing artists
TODAY’S UPDATES

Two new positive cases of COVID-19

There are two new cases of COVID-19 to report: one River Campus student and one Medical Campus employee.  Please note that the University’s COVID-19 Dashboard is updated when a new case is reported. Find the latest COVID-19 messages and updates here.

A reminder on face masks: they must be worn properly covering the nose and mouth indoors on the University’s campuses and properties. Visit the face mask FAQ page for full information. Face masks with air valves are not permitted, nor are face shields alone without a proper face mask underneath.

Honoring our veterans

The Office of Equity and Inclusion recognizes all veterans and US military, including faculty, staff, students, members of the board of trustees, alumni, visitors, community members, and all military families, who have honorably served the nation with great distinction. In appreciation of your service, visit the Office of Equity and Inclusion suite on Veterans Day, November 11, for a special gift. Stop by the first floor of Wallis Hall, next to room 148. Email equityandinclusion@rochester.edu for more information.

Find other Veterans Day events, including the annual Veterans Day run and a networking event at Simon Business School, in the For the Community section.

Security Tip: Keep your University employee badge and student ID secure

University employees are given ID badges for official identification and access to University premises. As more employees shift from a remote work environment back into an office, University IT reminds you that being an employee with such privileges comes with responsibilities. With the University’s mask requirement in place, it’s especially important to exercise caution when individuals request a swipe to gain access into a building. Furthermore, it’s important for employees and students to keep ID badges on hand at all times to prevent security breaches. Should you misplace your ID badge, report it immediately to the River Campus or Medical Center ID Card Office. When a replacement badge is issued, the original badge, if in the possession of the individual, must be returned to the ID Office. Find more information on ID cards.

ROCHESTER IN THE NEWS

Is the Fed playing politics with interest rates?

The Washington Post, November 5

When the US Federal Reserve decides where to set interest rates, it’s supposed to set aside political considerations and focus solely on what’s best for the economy. In an analysis piece, Narayana Kocherlakota, the Lionel W. McKenzie Professor of Economics, wonders whether the Fed is starting to stray from this model of independence—and what that might mean for inflation.


FOR STUDENTS

Fall Language Fair

Find out more about language learning opportunities at the University for spring 2022 during the Fall Language Fair, Tuesday, November 9, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in Feldman Ballroom, Douglass Commons. Meet the faculty, explore academic opportunities, learn about study abroad opportunities, and meet students that are learning languages.

Student workshop: ‘Fine-Tuning Your Idea: Listen to Your Customer and Be Ready to Pivot’

Discover the benefits of listening to potential clients. What do your future customers want? What can you do to help them get it? And what happens if your original idea isn’t lining up how you thought it would? Attend the student workshop “Fine-Tuning Your Idea: Listen to Your Customer and Be Ready to Pivot” on Tuesday, November 9, from 4 to 5 p.m. in Schlegel Hall, Room 103. This workshop qualifies for Medallion Program credit. Register to receive updates and email Erin Sefca with questions.

Graduate student wellness walk

Connect with other graduate students, immerse yourself in the fall foliage, and practice slow, gentle movement that benefits mind, body, and spirit with a Tai Chi break. Meet at the footbridge along the river next to Fraternity Road on Tuesday, November 9, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The walk is open to all University graduate students and is brought to you by the Graduate Student Wellness Committee. Register here.


FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

Don’t wait for the new year; quit smoking now

January 1 is irrelevant to your goals. Get the support you need with Well-U’s tobacco cessation program. Prescription medications are provided at no cost to help manage withdrawal symptoms. Sign up now.


FOR THE COMMUNITY

‘First-Gen Week’ events

The David T. Kearns Center invites you to “First-Gen Week,” a week-long celebration of first-generation college students at the University from November 8–12. The week will kick off with keynote speaker Richard Taylor Jr.’s conversation on mental prowess and resilience, followed by workshops on networking, conversations of first-gen identities, and overcoming obstacles. The week concludes with “First-Gen Fun Day,” a party celebrating first-gen pride featuring live music by Dr. Griffs, a 360-degree photo booth, and free swag. Register here to attend. Email kearnscenter@rochester.edu with questions or for disability accommodations.

‘Roc the Business of Art’ workshop series

“Roc the Business of Art,” a creative professional development workshop series for visual and performing artists, is designed to give artists the business skills needed to thrive. From building a website to setting up e-commerce to digital marketing to legal considerations, this free virtual series will cover what you need to grow your business. This program is offered by Arts in the Loop, a joint program between the Ain Center for Entrepreneurship and the Eastman School of Music.

Simon veterans networking event

Join the Simon Business School’s Office of Equity and Inclusion for a networking event on Wednesday, November 10, in Schlegel Hall’s Eisenberg Rotunda from 4:30-5:30 p.m. A panel of Simon veterans will share insights on their transition from the military to the civilian workforce. Drinks and appetizers are provided; register by noon on November 9.

Banking and consulting alumni panel

The Meliora Finance and Investment Group presents a banking and consulting alumni panel on Wednesday, November 10, at 7 p.m. in Morey Hall, Room 321. Ask alumni about what it’s like working in their fields and what the most effective strategies are for seeking a position in consulting and banking. No registration is required.

Annual Veterans Day run on November 11

The University’s annual Veterans Day run is Thursday, November 11, starting at 6 a.m. at Fauver Stadium. Find more information on how to register and other details on the run, which can be completed in person or virtually. The run is presented by the University’s NROTC units and Veterans Alliance.


SOCIAL MEDIA SPOTLIGHT

Screenshot of the University’s Instagram showing Simon School students celebrating the start of Diwali on the Eastman Quad

Last week, Simon Business School students celebrated the start of Diwali on the Eastman Quad.


COVID-19 QUICK LINKS


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