Author: MSU Human Resources

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Congratulations to the 2023 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winners!

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The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award honors six MSU support staff members annually. Colleagues submit nominations of individuals who demonstrate the qualities of Jack Breslin, who served MSU as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator, and steadfast advocate, personifying the “Spartan Spirit.”

Congratulations to this year’s winners, Kaye Boucher, Randy Klevickas, Healther Lenartson-Kluge, Megghan Seidel, Coreena Spitzley, and James Williams! These recipients display excellence in their job performance, supportive attitude, and contributions to MSU. On May 15, they were honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center for both the Ruth Jameyson and Jack Breslin award winners.

Watch a recording of the event below or on YouTube:

You can learn more about each Jack Breslin award recipient below.

Kaye Boucher

Kaye Boucher is the Human Resources Manager in the College of Veterinary Medicine and has been in her role for ten years. She is known for her hard work, dedication, and outstanding interpersonal skills. Kaye facilitates and supports the HR decision-making process of the dean, department chairs, HR admins across the college, and supervisors. She is the college go-to for all personnel and supervisors facing challenges or needing advice due to her active listening skills, empathy, and conflict resolution. Here is what her colleagues had to say about her:

“Ms. Boucher is a crucial member of the CVM leadership team, and a proactive, creative, and strategic leader in developing and championing the CVM human resources goals. She consistently displays a balance of tact, compassion, and firmness in addressing CVM teams. She is a selfless leader; someone who personally sacrifices for the well-being of others and for the whole of the college. She is thoughtful and strategic, and she understands and advocates for the values that each department and individual contributes to the college.”

“Kaye is not afraid to tear down silos and identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies. She is frequently identifying long-standing tasks that could be done better and plays an active leadership role in effecting that change. This is most notable in her willingness to assess practices and processes that directly relate to her area that she may have even had a hand in developing, eagerly looking for ways to hone her craft and improve the situation for the good of the college and MSU.”

“Kaye Boucher has been a keystone in the growth and success of the College of Veterinary Medicine, providing not just the best and latest HR information to our faculty, staff, and students, but she has done so in the most humane way, creating a culture of mutual support and compassion which we all strive to emulate.”

Randy Klevickas

Randy Klevickas is a Farm Manager in the Department of Forestry and has served MSU for nearly 45 years. His career as a Spartan began in 1977 with his first post at the Dunbar Forest Experiment Station in the eastern portion of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. In 1981, Randy moved into a new role on south campus as the resident Farm Manager of the Tree Research Center where he continues to perform above and beyond what is expected. Randy’s colleagues had this to say about him:

“His passion for mentoring MSU students and their ultimate success is resolute. Randy is a well-respected and trusted staff member, especially among forestry students. He is often looked to for professional advice and guidance related to the challenging landscape that the academic experience can create. His support keeps morale up and provides the insight needed to effectively manage difficult situations. Randy is a pillar of support among his colleagues across campus and MSU stations throughout the state.”

“Randy is an extremely self-conscious individual and takes an unrelenting personal pride and ownership in EVERY project that he undertakes, painstakingly exploring every minute detail, to ensure the efficiency, economics, and success of the project. He is an exemplary manager with a willingness and determination to support all things MSU, all things student experience, and all things Forestry; without hesitation or second guessing, Randy will jump right in and make things happen.”

“Randy has been selfless in supporting faculty, staff, grad students, and undergrads. Working behind the scenes, he has been a key contributor to the success of the MSU Forestry Department and allied departments such as Entomology and Horticulture. He truly embodies the notion of going ‘above and beyond the call of duty’ and would be an outstanding and worthy selection for the Breslin Distinguished Staff Award.”

Heather Lenartson-Kluge

Heather Lenartson-Kluge serves as Graduate Program Assistant and Assistant to the Chairperson in the Department of Entomology. She has served MSU for over 25 years and her duties include course scheduling, management of department-controlled classrooms, processing graduate admissions & assistantships, and support for faculty reappointment, promotion, and tenure. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Heather truly represents the ‘Spartans Will’ ethic. She facilitates a very large number of activities, processes, and essential functions for MSU’s Department of Entomology. She is often the face and voice of the department as she is a primary contact for all those who need information and assistance for all things insects!”

“Heather genuinely cares for the graduate students from application to graduation. I have witnessed her tenacity helping international students navigate the administrative maze that is the graduate school application. Her diplomacy facilitates the interaction among students, faculty and administration and the resolution of issues that arise in a student’s procession through milestones. The students value her experience and, on several occasions, sought her help to resolve course credit and other issues. In addition, the faculty seek Ms Lenartson-Kluge’s advice and help in many graduate student matters.”

“Heather is the heart and soul of our department. She is often the first face students see when they apply and then enroll, and she shepherds them through the processes toward graduation. She is also the sounding board for countless faculty concerns, providing support and problem solving. I feel honored to have the opportunity to work with her and she richly deserves this honor.”

Megghan Seidel

Megghan Seidel is the Publication and Events Manager for MSU Extension. Megghan’s career at MSU began 19 years ago as an undergraduate in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). Megghan supports the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, MSU Extension and AgBioResearch in the development, planning and execution of high-priority, educational events, conferences, and workshops. Her colleagues had this to say about her:

“Her teammates describe her as a ‘rockstar teammate’ who when assigned a task or commits to helping on a project she ‘does what is asked and more.’ Megghan is always willing to jump in and help whenever anyone on the event services team or within CANR needs assistance. This can be something as small as sharing a contact name for a vendor, helping to find a location to host an event or stepping in to help a colleague successfully plan and manage their event.”

“Megghan is one of those people that makes everyone that she works with better. Megghan provides great support and inspiration to those with whom she works, and in turn they match her enthusiasm and professionalism. Megghan is a tremendous mentor for students. She is a great teacher and helps students learn how to do things with high standards and provides personal counsel as they discuss their life goals and objectives.”

In response to the Michigan Ag Credit Conference, it was said, “I owe a huge thanks to Megghan whose innovativeness, connections and expertise greatly contributed to the success of the conference. She was integral in rethinking the conference, envisioning how it would flow in the new space, understood the needs of our audience, and helped us secure excellent speakers. She works hard, gets things done on time, and is trustworthy. She is an asset to MSU!”

Coreena Spitzley

Coreena Spitzley is the Budget and Personnel Administrator for the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) and she has been with MSU 44 years. She manages all grant budgets for this research-intensive department and coordinates the department budgets derived from four colleges (Human Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Natural Sciences) and the AgBioResearch unit. In addition, Coreena supervises the MMG office staff and advises the chair directly on all financial and administrative matters pertinent to the department. Here is what her colleagues had to say:

“Ms. Spitzley provides innovative solutions to problems, enhancing the effectiveness and efficiency of the department. Coreena has a central role in ensuring the department operates smoothly and efficiently. I am extremely impressed by the accomplishments of Coreena Spitzley and wholeheartedly believe she epitomizes the distinctions expected of the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award winners.”

“MMG is certainly one of the luckiest departments when it comes to having a knowledgeable and top-notch business manager. Coreena’s experience and commitment are invaluable and are recognized by everyone from deans, chairpersons, faculty, staff and students. She has proven to be an excellent mentor for new business managers in similar multi-administered units. From financial management and human resources to building management and more, she oversees it all with precision. As a supervisor, Coreena supports flexible work schedules and our career journeys. She is truly a role-model for us all in this aspect. Coreena has established an office atmosphere that is very comfortable, non-stressful and enjoyable.”

“It is a privilege to work with Coreena Spitzley in the Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, and a greater one to be able to support her nomination for the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award. Among the many excellent staff members I have the great fortune of working with at MSU, there is none who brings a greater measure of Spartan Spirit to work than Coreena.”

James Lee Williams

James Williams is responsible for the maintenance repairs in Case Hall and has been with MSU for over 37 years. This includes resident requests such as plumbing, lighting, electrical, and lock related, as well as building repairs, monthly reports, and projects for partners. Partners James has worked directly with include culinary, operations, IPF, and James Madison College. James’ colleagues had this to say about him:

“James is a natural born, humble leader. He does not need the title and can recognize when to take the lead and when to step back and support someone else. He ensures all team members have a voice and an equal opportunity to develop professionally and personally at work. A continuous example of James’ excellence at work can be seen in the resident responses from maintenance requests, of which 95% of are ranked as ‘excellent’ for his work, which is the highest possible ranking.”

“James is an extraordinarily successful maintenance worker because of his willingness to go above and beyond with any challenge that comes his way. James always goes that extra mile to make sure staff are fully trained and that our residents are delivered a ‘WOW’ experience! James is a collaborator and displays leadership skills by educating our student staff with knowledge in building maintenance. James is very efficient in any task he completes which leads to improvements with the overall functionality of Case Hall.”

“The most noteworthy characteristic James brings to the Spartan team is his ability to create a sense of calm in highly stressful times such as move in, and he does so with ease! James will not shy away from a task even if it isn’t within the scope of his job. He will see to it that the right person is well informed to follow through and make sure that you are taken care of.”

Thank you to Cheeney Media Concepts for all video recordings. All video credit: cmc2.tv

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June 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

Learning Opportunities

  • June 5 – Self-Compassion – An Essential Skill for Success: This course will provide an overview of the research on self-compassion, define what self-compassion is and challenge the myths about self-compassion that lead people to be overly harsh and critical with themselves.
  • June 7 – Finding Time: Time Management Strategies for Busy Professionals: Improve skills that may help reduce strain related to task accomplishment and time constraints.
  • June 13 – Cultural Competency: Join HR’s Organization and Professional Development team in building cultural awareness and inclusiveness skills that strengthen cultural competence.
  • June 20 – Performance Management for Hybrid Teams: This class will share best practices, and identify tips and strategies for developing strong and high performing hybrid teams using MSU’s Performance Excellence process.
  • June 21 – Taming the Email Beast: This program features specific tips for Outlook and Gmail users, but is applicable to any email user.
  • Starting June 21 – Crucial ConversationsÂź for Mastering Dialogue: This program teaches techniques that allow you to make room for different opinions and perspectives, find mutual respect and common purpose, and dialogue openly.
  • June 22 – Ready, Set, Change!: Discover a simpler and faster approach to help individuals and organizations adopt change to ensure objectives are met.

Health & Wellness

Family-Friendly Activities

  • June 3 – Family Day: PLAY: Make creative connections with our exhibitions through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the museum. All ages are welcome.
  • June 14 – Story Time at the Museum: Knowing Nature: Join East Lansing Public Library’s STEAM Educator Dr. Eric Berling for a nature-themed story time at the MSU Museum.

Job of the Week: Space Management Coordinator

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This week, we are featuring a posting from Institutional Space Planning and Management (ISPM) for a Space Management Coordinator (posting 865373). MSU’s ISPM provides leadership and guidance to Major Administrative Units to assist with the use and implementation of the space policy and utilization of space and facilities.

This position will have a focus on space planning and management for the units that report to the Office of Health Sciences: the Colleges of Human Medicine, Nursing, and Osteopathic Medicine as well as MSU Health Care. Working with representatives from these units, the Space Management Coordinator will address current space issues or problems, assist with identifying future space needs in alignment with program goals, develop program statements and space analyses, and more.This position also participates in the formulation of space policies, space planning guidelines, and metrics at the University and unit levels.

The future Space Management Coordinator should be a self-starter with a four-year degree in space management, data management, planning, architecture, organizational behavior, engineering, or a related field. Applicants should also have 3–5 years of experience in space planning and programming, data collection and analysis; and interpreting maps, plats, and construction plans. The Space Management Coordinator should also have the ability to manage multiple projects from conception to completion in a decentralized environment; experience with CAFM applications; working knowledge of AutoCAD; and strong interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written) with a customer service orientation.
To learn more about ISPM, visit ispm.msu.edu. To apply for this position, prepare a resume and apply here by June 13.

Bianca Price with MSU campus in the background and the heading "Human Resources' Bianca Price Selected for the CUPA-HR Ignite Program"

Bianca Price, HR’s Employment Customer Service Manager, Selected for the 2023-24 CUPA-HR Ignite Program

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This press release is being shared with permission from CUPA-HR.

Bianca Price, Human Resources Employment Customer Service Manager at Michigan State University has been selected to participate in the 2023-24 CUPA-HR Ignite program, a 12-month leadership development experience designed for early-career higher education human resources professionals. Program participants will have the opportunity to develop their professional skills through tailored learning experiences including mentorship, learning events and courses, and the completion of a project showcasing the insights they gain throughout the year.

Participants were selected based on their HR strengths and areas for development identified on the program application as well as their interest in and commitment to the program.  

“We are very excited to welcome our 10th cohort for this program,” shares CUPA-HR President and Chief Executive Officer Andy Brantley. “I am so proud that CUPA-HR has been able to support this outstanding leadership development opportunity for early-career professionals for a decade. The program has also provided a great opportunity for our higher ed HR leaders to give back and help prepare the next generation of higher ed leaders. We look forward to the year ahead and the opportunity to continue this program for many years to come.”

CUPA-HR’s Ignite program (formerly known as Wildfire) is led by outstanding current and past CUPA-HR leaders and national office staff and made possible in part thanks to support from HigherEdJobs.

About CUPA-HR

CUPA-HR is higher ed HR. We serve higher education by providing the knowledge, resources, advocacy and connections to achieve organizational and workforce excellence. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, and serving over 34,000 HR professionals and other campus leaders at nearly 2,000 member institutions and organizations around the country and abroad, the association offers learning and professional development programs, higher education workforce data, extensive online resources, and just-in-time regulatory and legislative information.

Contact Information
Jessica Thompson
Marketing Coordinator – Communications and Marketing
jcthompson@cupahr.org

Job of the Week: Director of Social Media / Communications Manager II/S

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This week, we are featuring a posting from the Department of Athletics for a Director of Social Media – Athletics / Communications Manager II/S (posting 865542). MSU’s Department of Athletics gathers and engages their community to teach, support and celebrate student-athletes in their quest for excellence.

This position is part of Spartan Vision, the strategic content creation and brand development team of Michigan State Athletics. The Director of Social Media is responsible for developing and implementing plans for department-wide social media use and advising the department on best strategies. As a key member of MSU Athletics, the Director of Social Media will be able to showcase their skills and creativity, while contributing to the growth and success of the organization.

The future Director of Social Media should be a highly motivated individual with a four-year degree in Communications, Digital Media or a relevant field. Applicants should also have 3–5 years of experience in managing social media, public and media relations; composing, editing and publication production; and/or marketing advertising and creative services. The Director of Social Media should also have excellent communication skills as well as proficiencies in Adobe Creative Suite (Premiere, Photoshop), Microsoft Office (Word, Outlook), and project management tools.
To learn more about the Department of Athletics, visit msuspartans.com. To apply for this position, prepare a resume and apply here by June 13.

Job of the Week: Assistant Director of Alumni Relations / College Alumni Coordinator

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This week, we are featuring a posting from the College Of Human Medicine for an Assistant Director of Alumni Relations/College Alumni Coordinator (posting 863254). MSU’s College of Human Medicine is committed to educating exemplary physicians and scholars, discovering and disseminating new knowledge, and providing service at home and abroad.

This position oversees and implements alumni engagement efforts for the College of Human Medicine. The Assistant Director of Alumni Relations is responsible for executing a strategic framework to build relationships with alumni in key markets and building programs that keep alumni networked with their peers and the College community. The role also oversees the college alumni board and assists with strategies to increase involvement and charitable participation in funding priorities.

The future Assistant Director of Alumni Relations should have an exceptional work ethic and extensive experience in collaboration along with a four-year college degree. The Assistant Director should also have 1–3 years of work experience in the planning and production of institutional events, contractor and vendor contract negotiations, developing event budget reports, volunteer management, and a working knowledge of the principles and practices of alumni and/or volunteer engagement. The position should have demonstrated success in working with a high volume of constituents in key markets, strong organizational skills, and must be goal-oriented with the ability to work both independently and as a team.To learn more about the College of Human Medicine, visit humanmedicine.msu.edu. To apply for this position, prepare a resume, cover letter and apply here by June 6.

Leadership Series: Languages of Appreciation

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

Often, when there is a mismatch of appreciation and acknowledgment preferences between co-workers or supervisors, it contributes to miscommunication and distrust. While this is less than scientific, taking the opportunity to learn your employees’ language of appreciation might just prompt some great conversations!  

The five languages of appreciation at work are based on the popular book “The 5 Love Languages” by Gary Chapman, which suggests that people have different ways of expressing and receiving love within intrapersonal relationships. These love languages can also be applied in the workplace, as languages of appreciation, to create a more positive and supportive environment.  

The five languages of appreciation at work are: 

Words of Affirmation

Use positive and encouraging words to affirm and motivate your employees who identify with words of affirmation as their language of appreciation. Offer frequent verbal and/or written praise for a job well done, share positive feedback at every opportunity, and express your gratitude for their hard work as often as you can. 

Quality Time

Those who feel appreciated through quality time are most affirmed and engaged through your undivided attention and being fully present in the moment. Hold regular one-on-one meetings with these employees, take the time to listen to their concerns and ideas, and give them opportunities to share their thoughts and opinions.  

Acts of Service

If you have an employee whose language of appreciation is acts of service, show them that you care by doing things for them that make their work easier or more enjoyable. When possible, consider helping employees with tasks that they find challenging, offer training and development opportunities, and share resources and support to help them succeed. 

Gifts

People who feel appreciated by receiving gifts may enjoy when you’re able to provide small tokens to show that you value their contributions. Examples of using gifts include providing personalized company-branded items, giving employees gift cards or other small tokens of appreciation, or offering a special reward or incentive for a job well done. Read more about the employee gift policy on the Controller’s website here.  

Connection

While physical touch may not be appropriate in all work environments, connection in some capacity can be a powerful way to show your employees that you care. Examples of connection in the workplace include attentive eye contact and warm smiles.  

To use the languages of appreciation, it’s essential to understand your employees’ individual preferences and needs.  

What’s Your Language of Appreciation? Take this quick quiz and find your most and least preferred languages.

Consider encouraging your employees to share their language of appreciation with you so that you can be sure to show gratitude and admiration for your employees in a way that resonates with them most. Languages of appreciation lead to stronger relationships, increased engagement and motivation, and a positive and supportive work environment.

Sources

The Languages of Appreciation Quiz, img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/a0310559-a281-42b3-b07f-42529301ff8d/downloads/languages_of_appreciation_quiz.pdf?ver=1671397699940.

Job of the Week: Video Producer/Director II

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This week, we are featuring a posting from the College of Music for a Video Producer/Director II (posting 856630). MSU’s College of Music provides a welcoming, challenging environment designed to foster innovation and creativity while helping every student achieve professional excellence. 

This position provides full video-recording support for live College of Music events in a variety of venues, including multi-camera, live switching, and streaming concerts. The Video Producer/Director collaborates on technical and creative aspects of video production to facilitate the creation of short video features for college productions. This role also manages content on the College of Music’s YouTube, streaming and social media channels and leverages video editing software, such as FinalCut Pro, Adobe Premiere, etc., for optimal media and computer file delivery.  

The future Video Producer/Director should have a basic knowledge of state-of-the-art and legacy audio-visual technology and a four-year college degree in Television Production, Broadcast Journalism or Telecommunications. Their working knowledge should include three to five years of experience in studio and remote television production, directing, editing and the use of related television equipment; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.  

To learn more about the College of Music, visit music.msu.edu. To apply for this position, prepare a resume, cover letter and apply here by May 16. 

May 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

May 14 – Piano Monster: Enjoy a musical performance from four grand piano players at the Fairchild Theatre.

May 18 – Eat at State – Dining at Brody Hall: The International Employee Resource Group is hosting this opportunity for Spartans to connect on issues related to the international community.  

May 21 – Museum Tour: The Nightly News (free): Experience and contribute to this interactive installation at the Broad Art Museum.

May 21 – Red Cedar Organ Recital: Hear from New York-based organist, Renee Anne Louprette, on MSU’s custom made organ. 

Learning Opportunities

Starts May 10 – Crucial Conversations For Accountability: Learn nine powerful skills for resolving performance problems.

May 17 – Understanding And Navigating Shame In The Workplace: Learn how to be less susceptible to efforts by others to use shame triggering to diminish the leader’s effectiveness, sustainability and efforts to develop inclusive, diverse and healthy work team cultures.

May 17 – Records Management And Retention At MSU (free): Learn the rules, regulations and strategies to help manage university records. 

May 18 – Strategic Planning: Learn how to move from ideas to action in this workshop.

May 25 – Managing Challenging Geriatric Behaviors: The Adult Caregivers Employee Resource Group is hosting this session to teach others how to identify and manage challenging new behaviors.

Starts May 30 – Building Awareness And Understanding Using The Intercultural Conflict Style Inventory (free): Join a group of your peers in attending this workshop to increase cultural self-understanding of communication and conflict resolution approach.

Health and Wellness

Starts May 1 – Food and Nutrition Counseling (free): Schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian for advice on how to improve your lifestyle and eating habits. 

Starts May 2 – Chair Yoga (free): Learn stretching and strengthening concepts that can be applied at home or in the workplace.

May 15 – Rest with Music (free): Regenerate your mind, body and spirit at the Abrams Planetarium. 

May 17 – Zumba Session with Rachel Perez: Enjoy a lunch hour of Zumba from the Women’s Networking Association.

Family-Friendly Activities

Starts May 5 – Wayfinders: Waves, Winds and Stars: Explore Hawai’i and the Pacific at the Abrams Planetarium. 

May 6 – Family Day: OPEN (free): Make creative connections through free hands-on and interactive family fun throughout the Broad Art Museum.

May 6 – Parent/Caregiver and Tot Music and Movement Class: The Family Employee Resource Group is offering the chance to explore the transformative nature of music and movement! This class is open to children 18-36 months old and siblings are welcome. 

Starts May 7 – One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure: Take an adventure with some familiar faces from Sesame Street at the Abrams Planetarium. 

May 8 – Monday Night Open House (free): View insects from all over the world at the MSU Bug House.

Job of the Week: College Records Officer

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This week, we are featuring a posting from the College of Arts and Letters for a College Records Officer (posting 858341). The College of Arts and Letters educates actors, artists, designers, filmmakers, linguists, philosophers, poets, teachers, translators, writers and much more in a creative, learning and nurturing environment. 

This position will operate within the Academic Operations Functional Team and support the Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies. The College Records Officer will support the student success mission and vision through scheduling, student enrollment services and scholarship management. They will also represent and coordinate the needs of the college in a professional and confidential manner. Find a list of all responsibilities on the MSU Careers website. 

The future College Records Officer should be a problem-solver with a four-year degree. Their working knowledge should include one to three years of experience with student recordkeeping systems. It’s preferred that they have experience at a large multi-campus research university.
To learn more about the College of Arts and Letters, visit cal.msu.edu. To apply for this position, prepare a resume, cover letter and apply here by May 16.