Author: MSU Human Resources

October Events Round-Up

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events 

October 3- To Kill A Mockingbird: The Wharton Center will be hosting “To Kill a Mockingbird” in the Cobb Great Hall from October 3-8. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website. 

October 12- MSU Broad Art Museum: Game Changers (free): Take a tour through “Resistance Training: Arts, Sports, and Civil Rights” and discuss gender inequality in sports while learning about the “game-changing” legislation that redefined sports. 

October 12- Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Fall and Winter Plant Lore (free):  Join Beal Botanical Garden’s Educational Program Director, Maeve Bassett, for a lunchtime tour to learn how the plants stay protected in the colder months. 

October 29- MSU Men’s Basketball Charity Exhibition Game: The Spartans will be facing off with the Tennesse Volunteers for an exhibition game with all proceeds going to Hawaii Community Foundation Maui Strong Fund to provide financial resources to local relief efforts.

Learning Opportunities

October 1- Midjourney AI Art Workshop 1: Introduction to Generative AI Art with Midjourney (free): This foundational session will serve as an introduction to AI art through guided demonstrations and exercises. 

October 12- Post-Parental Leave Employee Resource Group (free): Join this session to learn about what work-life balance looks like after parental leave. Learn about MSU’s remote and hybrid work policies and how to develop a flexible work arrangement. 

October 13- Open Virtual Reality (free): Whether you’re a first-timer or a VR professional, MSU Libraries VR Open Hours are for you! Connect with others and learn about virtual reality during this in-person course.

Health and Wellness

October 4- Mindfulness in the Workplace: Learn the basics of mindfulness and how you can benefit from a mindful work environment in this virtual course. 

October 4- Raising Good Eaters: The Feeding Relationship: This series will serve as a problem-solving course in learning how to feed your children and identify eating/feeding skills.

October 12- Open Enrollment Benefits Fair: MSU benefit providers and MSU HR staff will be available to answer questions and/or help employees enroll in their benefits on-site at the Breslin Student Events Center. 

October 15- MSU College of Law Justice For All 5K Walk/Run: The second annual Justice For All 5K Walk/Run will be held at 1:00 PM on October 15. The course will lead participants through MSU’s campus with donations going to Legal Services of South Central Michigan.

Family-Friendly Activities

October 1- Meridian Heritage Festival: Celebrate the community’s history with a day of entertainment, demonstrations, games, and exhibits from Native American and early American cultures featuring games and a Civil War Reenactment Presentation. 

October 7- Family Day: TEAM: Make creative connections at the Broad Art Museum with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum.

October 7- Grand Ledge Fall Festival: Celebrate fall in Grand Ledge with crafters, vendors, food trucks, entertainment, pumpkins, handmade items, baked goods, pony rides, pottery, candles, jewelry, and much more. 

Job of the Week: Communication Arts and Sciences Research Administrator

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This week’s featured job is a Research Administrator for the College of Communications Arts and Sciences (posting 900683). The College of Communication Arts and Sciences offers world-class training to students through active engagement in translational research that influences health, environment, media, technology, business and public affairs across the nation and around the world.

This position will serve the College of Communication Arts and Sciences by providing backup to the Research Administration Manager, reviewing proposals for completeness and accuracy and evaluating existing policies and procedures to make further improvements. The future Research Administrator will also work with Principal Investigators to establish proposal timelines and review Request for Proposal.

The Research Administrator will also manage departmental research accounts and work closely with the Research Fiscal Officer on expenses, reconciliations and other financial questions/concerns on the accounts that they manage. This position features a hybrid schedule and the selected candidate will be expected to be in the office a minimum of two days per week 

The Research Administrator should have a four-year college degree in a related field. The ideal candidate would also have 5-8 years of related experience in research administration with at least three years in a university setting. 
To learn more about the College of Communication Arts and Sciences, visit their website. To apply for the position, please provide a resume and cover letter on the MSU Careers Website by October 3. 

Leadership Series: Leaning Into Change

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Written by Sharri Margraves, Director for HR Organization and Professional Development

I invite you to take a fresh perspective on leading change by starting with yourself and how you lead change. We are experiencing unprecedented change on many levels, across many organizations and systems, which puts pressure on both you and your teams. Creating collaborative teams, internally and cross-functionally, will help you lead change in a new way. Start down the path by considering the following questions:

Are you treating the symptoms or tackling the root cause of the issues?

Bring your teams together to consider the root cause of problems or improvements. Connecting improvements throughout the organization to individuals can increase engagement and create value for your stakeholders.

Does everyone on your team understand expectations and how to participate in improvement?

Imagine empowering and unleashing the potential of your entire team by inviting them to work on what really matters in a way that is supported by trusting those who know the most about the issues and can make direct contributions that have a positive impact.

Do you expect continuous improvement in your daily work?

Consider ways to systematically improve even “small” thorny issues to enhance efficiency and your team’s experience in day-to-day processes. Don’t underestimate the power of recognizing your employees for excellent work even during the everyday—it’s a great way to boost engagement and maintain momentum!

Do you practice inclusion by having representatives of all of your key stakeholders?

Be holistic in solving problems and making improvements. Include representatives from each key area that may be involved in your project or process to ensure the best outcome for improvement and performance, which also builds rapport and trust—especially those that perform the actual work.

Lean into change regardless of the scope and create a path:

  1. Define – Identify the problem, the desired state, the team to be involved in the process, and their roles. A RACI chart is helpful in determining who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed.
  2. Do and Document – Kaizen means to take apart-“Kai” and put back together- “Zen.” Lead with intention and remember—there are no bad people or information. Focus on the facts of the problem and model problem-solving and enhancement of services. Document the process as you go, identify improvement areas, and communicate with stakeholders regularly.
  3. Measure and Compare—verify improvement. Anything that does not add value (time, money, energy) should be eliminated wherever possible. Measuring improvement is an important step and promotes transparency, even during everyday processes.
  4. Standardize the new process, system, and action. Use visual tools, dashboards, and posters to reinforce the processes. Promapp is a great system of record to do all of that.

Celebrate success! Be sure to monitor continuously as situations change and embark on improvements.

“Change leadership is the ability to influence and inspire action in another, and respond with vision and agility during periods of growth, disruption or uncertainty to bring about the needed change. “ Yvonne Ruke Akpoveta

Sources

Balzer, W., Francis, D., Krehbiel, T., Shea, N. A review and perspective on lean in higher education. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/William-Balzer/publication/308000035_A_review_and_perspective_on_Lean_in_higher_education/links/5ea32ac6299bf112560c188d/A-review-and-perspective-on-Lean-in-higher-education.pdf

Jenkins, Alison. Advancing lean leadership. https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/operations/our-insights/advancing-lean-leadership#

Neumeyer, Adrian. Create a RACI chart so everyone knows their role. https://www.tacticalprojectmanager.com/raci-chart-explanation-with-example

Job of the Week: Senior Director of Communications and Marketing

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This week’s featured job is a Senior Director of Communications and Marketing for University Advancement (posting 896429). University Advancement works to promote MSU’s excellence and enrich its future by building a culture of engagement and philanthropy. 

This position will serve University Advancement by promoting the university’s upcoming multi-billion dollar capital campaign and overseeing successful communications and marketing strategies across a range of platforms. The future Senior Communications and Marketing Director will also direct strategies for University Advancement including alumni/campaign communications, brand management and social media marketing. 

This position also comes with characteristic duties and responsibilities, including implementing comprehensive content and communications strategies for maximizing philanthropy and engagement with MSU and prioritizing the donor experience. They would also set clear direction for personnel while monitoring the budget.

The Senior Communications and Marketing Director should have a four-year degree, though a master’s degree is preferred, but not required. Experience should include five to 8 years working in public relations, publication production, video production, advertising, graphic design, social media, communications analytics, or web design. Ideal applicants would also have experience working in higher education and/or communicating to a diverse audiences in consideration of best DEI practices. 

To learn more about University Advancement, visit their website. To apply for the position, please provide a resume and cover letter on the MSU Careers Website by October 5. 

Photo of a smiling person sitting at a table, with a laptop open in front of them. Notebooks and an open book are on the table to the sides of the laptop computer.

Happy National Online Learning Day!

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Since 2016, September 15 has been marked as National Online Learning Day. There has been no shortage of online learning these past few years– and MSU doesn’t plan to stop. Michigan State offers a wide variety of online options for faculty and students alike, expanding the definition of work location, accessibility and redefining the realms of learning. 

Available Online Courses

A new way of learning requires a whole new set of skills. Learn how to further advance your career with virtual literacy, gain confidence in online applications and access virtual opportunities through MSU: 

IT Training Classes: Take advantage of free sessions designed to help you successfully utilize critical digital applications like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, OneNote, and OneDrive. Multiple classes are offered, including an overview of Spartan (Microsoft) 365 products and sessions dedicated specifically to individual applications.

Organization and Professional Development Classes: A wide variety of courses are available for registration in EBS around topics including Leadership, Communications and Customer Service.

WorkLife Office Webinars:  MSU’s WorkLife Office offers informative webinars on any shifts in the workforce, helpful tips for working Spartans and how to find a work-life balance. 

elevateU Resources

Get 24/7 access to self-paced online resources including books, videos, courses, and more via elevateU. 

Access elevateU here or log into EBS and look for the “elevateU” tile under the “My Career & Training” tab. You can access elevateU from your computer or through the Skillsoft Learning App for Android and iOS devices. Recent enhancements to the elevateU platform include live events and webinars, live instructor-led bootcamps and certification programs. To learn more about updates to elevateU, click here or watch a recorded demonstration here 

There are programs that cover leadership, IT & desktop, business, finance, human resources, change management, project management, interpersonal skills and so much more. Resources are available in a variety of formats: 

  • Video-based and interactive courses 
  • Videos 
  • Books 
  • Resources to prepare for various professional certifications 

Learn more about ElevateU on the HR website.  

Utilize the resources as reference tools to help answer your day-to-day job questions or as part of your ongoing personal and professional development. Many of the courses are even approved for Continuing Education credits! Remember, all elevateU courses are available to current staff and faculty at no charge.  

Happy National Online Learning Day!

2024 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Call for Nominations!

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Remarkable, dedicated and hardworking are just some of the words used to describe the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Recipients. The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award is presented annually to six university support staff members, hand-selected by the Selection Committee from nominations received by the recipients’ colleagues.

The award is named in honor of Jack Breslin, who served Michigan State University as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator and steadfast advocate. His strong and innovative leadership played a pivotal role in MSU’s growth and development as the nation’s premier land grant institution.

Nominations are now open for the 2024 award and the nomination form and accompanying materials are due November 3, 2023. Selection criteria for recipients include overall excellence in job performance, supportive attitude and contributions to the unit or university that lead to improved efficiency or effectiveness, and valuable service to the university. Nominees must be regular, active employees with at least five years of service in a support staff role at MSU or an approved affiliate of MSU. Please review the nomination form and the HR website for further details. Do not notify the nominee before or after submitting your nomination. The nominee’s supervisor must approve the nomination. Approval includes ensuring the nominee meets eligibility requirements, is in good standing with a recent performance review and has not previously received the award. The nomination form, supervisor approval, and accompanying materials are due November 3, 2023. Contact MSU Human Resources with any questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu. 

Job of the Week: Environmental Technologist / Safety Technologist

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This week’s featured job is an Environmental Technologist/Safety Technologist for the Department of Environmental Health and Safety (posting 894599). The Department of Environmental Health and Safety oversees University efforts to protect occupational health and the environment, assisting faculty and staff in maintaining safe, compliant workplaces. 

This position will serve the Department of Environmental Health and Safety by assisting the Environmental Compliance Team to support environmentally-friendly practices in the workplace. This effort would include conducting indoor/outdoor inspections of various work sites, buildings, outdoor areas, storage areas, including all of main campus and its satellite facilities around the state. The future Environmental Technologist/Safety Technologist will also collect samples of suspected hazardous building materials (including asbestos, lead, PCBs), in addition to soil, and water. 

The Environmental Technologist/Safety Technologist should have a four-year degree and six to 12 months of work experience in an employment-related environmental specialty. They should also have knowledge of local, state and federal environmental regulations along with experience in environmental sampling, including hazardous building materials.

To learn more about the Department of Environmental Health and Safety, visit their website. To apply for the position, please provide a resume and the name and contact information of at least three professional references on the MSU Careers Website. 

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September is Self-Improvement Month

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September is Self-Improvement Month! Self-improvement can be related to many things, whether it’s learning something new, maximizing a strength or focusing on your physical or emotional wellbeing. Celebrate this month by taking some time for yourself, growing and using these MSU resources to help get you started.

Ready, Set, Change!

Take advantage of this personal development course on September 12. Learn from Amazon best-selling author of Ready, Set, Change! on how to streamline the changing process. For more information, click here. 

Take a Walk Around MSU

Utilize our beautiful campus or take a stroll through the East Lansing area. Taking a walk is great exercise, but can also improve your mental and emotional well-being.

Finding Peace in a Chaotic World 

Feeling worried, stressed or anxious? Learn strategies to help navigate our increasingly complex world and how you can change your own perspective. For more information, click here. 

Spartan Clothing Swap

Work on your self-improvement by cleaning out your closet, helping the planet and giving back to others in the community. The Surplus Store and Recycling Center are hosting a clothing swap where you can swap your clothes in good condition with others and keep them out of the waste stream. For more information, click here. 

Sleep: Understanding and Optimizing Your Nightly Reboot 

This September, MSU Health4U will be hosting Sleep: Understanding and Optimizing Your Nightly Reboot to help Spartans learn about “sleep hygiene.” For more information on the sleep science course, click here. 

“Medusa’s Vines”: 2023 Music and the Garden Series

Take in the natural beauty of the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden, relax, and enjoy some music at the 2023 Music and the Garden Series. For more information, click here. 

Strengths Based Leadership

Looking to maximize your strengths and become a stronger leader? Understand manager-specific strengths using the newly released CliftonStrengths for Managers Report in this in-person course. For more information, click here. 

Active Office Workshop 

If you work in an office setting, it can be hard to get enough physical activity throughout the day. In this free course, learn the best exercises for the workplace and develop a culture of movement. For more information, click here. 

Share your favorite self-improvement tips and comment below!

Job of the Week: Security Operations Coordinator/Crime Analyst

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This week’s featured job is for a Security Operations Coordinator/Crime Analyst for MSU’s Department of Police and Public Safety (posting 891495). The Department of Police and Public Safety makes an active effort to maintain an environment where all people on campus feel respected, protected and heard. 

This position will serve the Department of Police and Public Safety by monitoring access control systems and intrusion detection systems, including building safety or automation systems related to infrastructure safety and personal security. The future Security Operations Coordinator/Crime Analyst will need to access and review security video while also fielding calls in support of campus security operations.

The Security Operations Coordinator/Crime Analyst will also oversee MSU DPPS’s Cadet Desk.. The Cadet Desk is staffed by all MSU students who are passionate about criminal justice and law enforcement. They must also train all cadets to ensure they possess the ability to multitask and be able to perform their job duties during emergency situations.  

The ideal candidate should have a four-year college degree in intelligence analysis, criminal justice or related field or equivalent education. One to three years of related experience is also recommended.

To learn more about the Department of Police and Public Safety, visit their website. To apply for the position, please provide a resume, cover letter and at least three professional references on the MSU Careers Website. 

September Events Round-Up

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Are you looking for activities for you and your family in the upcoming month? There are events (in-person and virtual) on campus and in the Greater Lansing community. Many events require registration, so be sure to click the links to learn more.

Campus Events

September 1- MSU Football Season Opener: The Spartans kickoff their first game of the season at 7 PM against Central Michigan University. 

September 8- Fall Opening Party at the Broad Art Museum: Experience the many offerings of your campus art museum! You’re invited to explore our newest exhibitions while enjoying food, music, special guests, and activities for all. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

September 14- Masterworks 1: Dvorak New World Symphony: The 94th season at the Wharton Center begins with the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. Ticket prices are available on the Wharton Center website.

Learning Opportunities

September 7- Engaging Teams for Maximum Performance: Developing a shared vision of success is a critical factor in boosting team performance. Methods of building trust, setting goals and providing feedback to help enhance employee engagement and working relationships will be shared in this virtual session.

September 14- Beal Botanical Garden Tour: Restoration of the Red Cedar River:  Join Beal Botanical Gardens Director, Dr. Prather, for a lunchtime tour to learn about the Red Cedar River’s restoration efforts.

September 20- Family Employee Resource Group: Family Resources for Learning Disabilities in K-12: Join this virtual session with Andrea Beachneau, Regional Parent Mentor with the Michigan Alliance for Families, and Greg Molenda, Director of Technical Assistance for the Ingham Intermediate School District to learn about resources for K-12 students with learning disabilities. 

Health and Wellness 

September 6: Fresh Air Fitness: Yoga in the Beal Garden: The fall series of Yoga in the Beal Garden begins, stretching throughout the month of September. Registration is recommended for this free event. 

September 7: Ergonomic Best Practices for Work-Station Comfort and Safety: Identify common workplace stressors and learn the best practices for developing an ergonomically friendly workspace. This zoom seminar requires registration. 

September 12: Understanding Sleep and Optimizing Your Nightly Reboot: Discuss the physiological importance of sleep through this free virtual course with MSU Health4U. 

September 25- Active Office Workshop: Learn about the best practices for physical activity in the workplace and develop a culture of movement through this virtual seminar. 

Family-Friendly Activities

September 2- Family Day: BALANCE: Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the Broad Art Museum. All ages are welcome. Registration for this free event is encouraged.

September 23-25- Spartan Family Weekend: The MSU and Spartan Family Connections is hosting its inaugural Spartan Family Weekend Presented by MSUFCU Friday, Sept. 23 through Sunday, Sept. 25. The weekend will include social and academic opportunities to explore campus and the MSU community with your Spartan and to celebrate with families from across the country and around the world! Registration for this event is required.