Update on new positive cases of COVID-19

There are 40 new cases to report: 32 River Campus students, one River Campus employee, one Eastman Campus student, one Eastman Campus employee, and five Medical Campus students. 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.

Cannabis e-cigs contain unlisted, unintended components

Many cannabis e-cigarettes or vapes fail to accurately list contents on their labels, according to Medical Center researchers Irfan Rahman, the dean’s professor of environmental medicine, and Jiries Meehan-Atrash, a postdoctoral researcher in Rahman’s lab.

Final reminder on updating W-2 form information

University employees can elect to receive their W-2 forms electronically. Consenting to receive your Form W-2 electronically eliminates the possibility of your W-2 statement being misplaced or lost in the mail. By consenting, you will receive notification this month via email when your W-2 is available to view or print. To consent, log in to HRMS and go to Self Service > Payroll and Compensation > W-2/W-2c Consent, check the box to consent, and submit by today, January 7. Individuals who previously consented to receive their W-2 statements electronically do not need to consent again. If you have not consented by January 7 to receive your W-2 electronically, your W-2 will be mailed to your mailing address as indicated in HRMS. To verify and update your address in HRMS, go to Self Service > Personal Information > Personal Details. Address updates need to be completed by January 13. Contact the Payroll and Tax Compliance Office at (585) 275-2040 or payroll@rochester.edu with questions.

New open access agreements with libraries, publishers

The University of Rochester Libraries has announced new open access agreements with several publishers. These agreements will allow Rochester-affiliated researchers to save money when publishing open access work by avoiding costly article processing fees (because they’re covered by the libraries). Publishers participating in these agreements are the American Chemical Society, Microbiology Society, Public Library of Science, Rockefeller University Press, SCOAP3, MIT Press, and Punctum Book.

If you are interested in learning more about open access publishing, need assistance identifying a journal for a manuscript submission, or want to recommend a publisher for an open access agreement, contact a scholarly communication specialist or your librarian.

Using EAP in supervision

Improve your ability to recognize employees whose personal problems are adversely affecting performance. Join Well-U and UR Medicine EAP on Wednesday, January 12, from noon to 1 p.m. EST for a virtual workshop that will help you to use EAP as a productivity tool when addressing performance concerns. This training is for those in a supervisory or managerial role. Register here.

You’ve got to move it

If moving more is part of your New Year’s resolution, Well-U’s Fitness 101: Get Started or Fitness 201: Get Stronger has your back. With support from an exercise specialist, build your own workout plan and learn how to prevent injuries. And once completed, earn $100.

Seminar on wellness for performing artists

Musicians have specific nutrient needs. Find out how to dial in on what your body needs for auditions, performances, and to maintain your health year-round through a “Nutrition for Performing Artists” seminar taking place Wednesday, January 12, at 6 p.m. EST. The event is part of “Wellness at Eastman,” a new monthly seminar series focused on a healthy and mindful approach to a career as a performing artist. Topics will cover physical and mental health, and how artists can create a sustainable path for their future.

‘Jump Start’ weight loss program

New coat for the holidays? Donate your outgoing coat for patients in need

Friends of Strong, Advantage Federal Credit Union, and Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department are collecting clean, gently used—or new—men’s winter coats for patients in need who are being discharged from the hospital throughout the winter months. For Medical Center staff and students, donation collection boxes are located in the hospital’s main lobby, and on the ground floor between the University ID and post offices located just inside the Whipple Circle entrance on Crittenden Blvd. The general public may use the donation bin located outside of Advantage’s Penfield branch at 2515 Browncroft Blvd. Call (585) 275-2420 with questions or if you would like to arrange a collection drive in your location or department.

‘Mindful Practice in Medicine’ workshop

The “Mindful Practice in Medicine” workshop was developed by physicians to help medical practitioners and educators respond to the erosion of joy in their work. It provides an experiential and interactive learning environment. Register to attend the virtual workshop, taking place February 2–5; discounted registration fees end on January 19. Find full details and other available programs here.

‘Youth Healing Hate’ grants for Monroe County youth

The MK Gandhi Institute for Nonviolence will offer a fifth round of “Youth Healing Hate” grants for Monroe County youth, aged 12–24. Grants of up to $1,000 are available for youth to increase safety and a sense of community in school or their local community. Previous projects have included supporting an urban-suburban student exchange program, a peace garden in a Rochester city elementary school, and murals in school bathrooms that include a QR code for students to access support. Applications are due Friday, January 28, for projects to be completed by June. For more information, email Gwen Olton.

• Dr. Chat Bot: Non–Medical Center faculty, staff, and all students | Medical Center employees
• COVID-19 Resource Center | Medical Center’s COVID-19 update page
• Current campus face mask policies
• Faculty and staff vaccine participation form (VPN or on-campus network connection required)
• FAQ on COVID-19 vaccination
• What to do if you or your close contacts have symptoms or have been exposed