Christina K. Brogdon, PHR, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
Dear Spartan Colleagues,
I am excited to welcome everyone to a new academic year! As we embrace a fresh start this fall, I’m reflecting on the outstanding growth we’ve experienced here in HR. We have new leaders and staff in Benefits, Compensation, Employee and Labor Relations, and Talent. This growth allows our team to enhance our services and continue providing the Spartan community with extraordinary experiences every day.
In the upcoming year, HR will continue its transformation to Produce and Perform with new initiatives that include Total Rewards, Talent Management, a renewed focus on Employee Engagement and Experience, and Operational Excellence. I’m also looking forward to starting a new academic year under the leadership of President Guskiewicz, a Tar-Heel-turned-Spartan like me! He is a strategic and service-oriented leader who will continue moving the university upward in its mission of education, research, and outreach. I share in his excitement for what’s in front of us.
Finally, I’d like to reiterate the message from President Guskiewicz regarding civil discourse in our community. As he mentioned, we all have a role to play in building a more inclusive community. While it’s okay that we don’t all agree, we should always demonstrate empathy and intellectual humility while exercising our freedom of speech. To support our employees as they engage in respectful civil discourse, a page is available on the HR website, Civil Discourse for Employees, with answers to frequently asked questions and additional resources. Let’s go into this new academic year supporting one another and demonstrating our Spartan Will to the community and beyond.
Thank you for your continued dedication to the University, our students, and our land-grant mission. On behalf of Human Resources, I wish you a safe, healthy, and successful academic year in which you take advantage of fresh opportunities and new beginnings.
Go Green!
Christina K. Brogdon, PHR Vice President of Human Resources
With this year’s Educational Assistance, or “Ed Assist,” support staff benefit resetting with the start of the fall semester, now’s a perfect time to refresh your Ed Assist knowledge and take advantage of this opportunity for your learning and development. Here are a few important reminders regarding this benefit.
Credit and Non-Credit Options
You may receive financial assistance for credit and non-credit courses, including training, seminars, workshops, conferences, or other educational opportunities. Use this benefit to enhance your professional skill set or help you reach Performance Excellence goals.
For non-credit courses, like professional development courses available through HR, support staff employees may have up to $900 per year to use toward course registration fees depending on their union contract. The course must be considered job-related and from an approved institution/program to receive assistance.
You may receive up to 14 credits per academic year for credit courses. Your level of financial assistance is determined by your union group, whether you’re taking a graduate or undergraduate course, and where you’re taking the course (MSU or another university). The course must be considered job-related, degree-related, or career/professional development-related.
Taxation Information for Graduate-Level, Degree-Related Coursework
When using Educational Assistance funds toward graduate-level, degree-related classes for credit, it’s important to remember and plan for IRS tax exemption rules. The Internal Revenue Code (IRC) provides up to $5,250 in exemption per tax (calendar) year for graduate-level, degree-related courses reimbursed/waived through employer educational assistance programs, like the one at MSU. Any amount of the benefit over $5,250 for degree-related, graduate-level courses is considered taxable income by the IRS.
If you use Ed Assist benefits for graduate-level, degree-related courses for credit over the $5,250 exemption amount, appropriate tax withholding will be made, and the amount will be added to your gross wages. If there is a tax liability, the deductions must be completed within the same calendar year. If this tax situation applies to your Ed Assist usage, you will receive a notification via email in the fall, typically around September. This notification will indicate the amount of Educational Assistance received in the calendar year, the taxable amount, and which paycheck withdrawals will occur to cover the outstanding tax liability.
Note: This tax liability, dictated by the IRS, applies ONLY to any Ed Assist benefit usage over the $5,250 limit when applied to graduate-level, degree-related courses for credit. For example, if you received $6,250 in eligible Ed Assist benefits in a year, you would only be taxed on the $1,000 over the exemption limit and owe a percentage of that $1,000 as your tax liability.
Find detailed information about Educational Assistance – including how to apply – on the HR website. Contact Organization and Professional Development at avphr.hrdmail@msu.edu with questions.
This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting from University Advancement as an Associate Director of Development for the College of Communication Arts and Sciences (posting 966376). From their headquarters in Spartan Stadium Tower to our fundraising offices across campus and regions across the United States, University Advancement is working to build lasting relationships with alumni, friends and donors who care about MSU as much as they do.
The College of Communication Arts and Sciences is vibrant and eclectic, examining communication from neurons to nations. Their smart, passionate people and collaborative culture empower the opportunity to create an extraordinary impact on how they communicate and connect for a better, more inspired world.
This remote-friendly role includes the possibility of travel while identifying, cultivating, soliciting and stewarding alumni and friends of the College of Communication Arts and Sciences. The ideal individual for this role is a dedicated, collaborative, enthusiastic, creative, and results-oriented fundraiser who thinks and acts strategically.
As Associate Director of Development for ComArtSci, you will manage a portfolio of approximately 75 major donor prospects, focusing efforts on prospects whose philanthropy capacity is $100,000 to maximize the fundraising potential on behalf of the university. You will travel as needed to engage with donors and secure major gift solicitations, playing a pivotal role in cultivating and soliciting major donor prospects for MSU’s upcoming capital campaign. As a member of the ComArtSci Advancement team, you’ll assist the Senior Director of Development in planning for the capital campaign, which includes developing funding priorities, identifying and cultivating leadership gifts and recruiting volunteers.
The education, experience and skills desired for this role include a four-year degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or Business and three to five years of experience in public relations, volunteer administration, fundraising, or marketing. It is also helpful to have a collaborative team-oriented work style, experience in public speaking and excellent interpersonal skills including written and verbal communication.
Learn more about University Advancement at advancement.msu.edu and the College of Communication Arts and Sciences at comartsci.msu.edu. If interested in this role, apply with your resume and cover letter at careers.msu.edu by August 15.
Whether you’re planning a road trip, family picnic, or trip to the lake, there is so much to do in Michigan during the summer months. While these events can provide a ton of fun for your family, there are ways to make summer safer.
Tips for a Healthy Summer
Here are some tips to help keep you safe, stay informed, and keep the fun times rolling:
Sun Protection: Stay in the shade when you can, wear a hat, and don’t forget about the sunscreen (at least SPF 15 is recommended for sun protection).
Stay Hydrated: Beat the summer heat and drink plenty of water.
Insect Protection: The best way to prevent mosquito bites and ticks is to wear insect repellent and long sleeves or pants. Check your clothing, body, and pets when you go inside!
Keep Cool: Take breaks from direct sunlight and use fans or air conditioning when needed. Take note of weather forecasts and plan events accordingly.
In addition to these tips, if you participate in a flexible spending account (FSA) you can use your funds to help pay for common summer necessities and camps for your kids.
Tips for Health Care FSA Funds
Save an average of 30% by using your Health Care FSA funds on the following eligible expenses that double as travel necessities:
Allergy medications
Blister care kits
Bug bite treatments
Orthotics/insoles
Sun reader eyeglasses
Sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Travel first-aid kits
Traveling neck pillows
UV detection stickers
And more!
Are you worried about buying something that isn’t considered an eligible expense? Consider shopping at the online FSA Store for worry-free purchases since everything on the FSA Store website is a guaranteed eligible expense. Check out their monthly coupons and promo codes for additional savings.
If you don’t have an FSA and are wondering if you should participate in one, learn more about the two types of FSAs available to benefit-eligible MSU employees on the HR website and consider enrolling in one or both types during the benefits Open Enrollment period in October this year.
The MSU Service and Retirement Recognition Award recognizes support staff employees celebrating a 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, or 45th work anniversary or a retirement falling between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.
On May 13, we recognized over 600 employees celebrating long-term work anniversaries and retirements during an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center. Our university’s development and growth have been, in large part, due to the contributions made by its staff members, particularly those who have chosen to remain in the service of the university. This occasion was dedicated to those who have served the university through the years of its greatest development. It is a tribute to those who have found satisfaction in helping others and creating an impact for a better world.
MSU service and retirement award recipients and their colleagues, friends, and families during the ceremony. Some recipients are standing to acknowledge their years of service to the university.
MSU service and retirement award recipients and their colleagues, friends, and families during the ceremony. Some recipients are standing to acknowledge their years of service to the university.
Christina K. Brogdon, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, addresses the award recipients during the ceremony.
Thomas Glasmacher, Interim Executive Vice President for Administrative Services, addresses the award recipients during the ceremony.
Scott Pohl (left) and Jody Knol from WKAR announced award recipient names during the ceremony.
Sparty thanks award recipients during the ceremony.
Sparty with a group of award recipients during the reception.
Sparty with a group of award recipients during the reception.
Sparty with a group of award recipients during the reception.
Sparty with a group of award recipients during the reception.
Sparty dancing to the live jazz band during the reception.
Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, Christina K. Brogdon, and Interim Executive Vice President for Administration, Thomas Glasmacher, acknowledged award recipients and expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. Please review this year’s awards program and watch a recording of the event below.
The university thanks these awardees for their talent, passion, loyalty, and contribution to our shared purpose. If you see a colleague’s name in this year’s awards program, be sure to congratulate them!
All photo credit: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto All video credit: Cheeney Media Concepts
When was the last time you celebrated failure? We are taught from a young age that failure is bad and something to fear. Because failures may bring negative repercussions, they are often hidden, ignored and downplayed. In reality, failure can be a powerful learning experience and is essential to success. When we embrace the idea of “failing forward”, we develop perseverance, confidence and a new perspective on what it takes to succeed.
Types of Failure
Not all failures are the same, but each has important lessons to teach us.
Preventable failure happens in automated processes when a piece of equipment fails, a step is neglected or there is some other kind of malfunction. For this category, it’s important to determine how to best troubleshoot preventable failures. What safeguards are in place regarding people, equipment and environment? Make sure that all precautions have been taken to keep preventable failures from happening in the first place.
Complex failure happens when events or situations come together in unexpected ways that cannot be foreseen.
Intelligent failure is common in innovative projects and processes, where trial and error are simply part of the experiment.
Organizations and individuals best learn from all types of failures by having procedures in place, along with the willingness and readiness to actively detect, analyze and experiment within the workplace to catch errors quickly, learn from them, and embrace the growth and improvement that can be generated as a result.
Ideas for Action
Depending on the type of work you do, one of the three types of failure is probably more common than the others. Consider which is most likely to happen at your workplace and think about how you might handle that type of mistake or failure should it occur.
Come up with an example from your life for each type of failure: preventable, complex, and intelligent. Why did they happen, and how were they handled? Were the situations resolved? How did they affect you and others? Take some time to reflect on what you learned from these particular failures.
The Blame Game
If failure is essential to success, why does it feel so terrible when it’s happening? Failure and fault are virtually inseparable in most cultures and organizations. Every child learns at some point that admitting failure means taking the blame, and that pattern may then be reinforced in the workplace. One tremendous benefit of creating and encouraging a culture of psychological safety, in which the rewards of learning from failure can be fully realized, is that greater innovation and individual and organizational growth can occur.
The added challenge when it comes to reframing our ideas of failure is that the experience of failing is more than emotional — it’s also cognitive. We all favor evidence that supports our existing beliefs rather than alternative explanations. We also tend to downplay our responsibility and place undue blame on external or situational factors when we fail, only to do the reverse when assessing the failures of others—a psychological trap known as fundamental attribution error. The courage to confront our own and others’ imperfections with honest reflection and a focus on improvement and learning is crucial.
Ideas for Action
List a small number of failures you’ve experienced over recent months. Can you recall how you felt and what thoughts occurred? Make a note of these feelings and thoughts. Can you identify a pattern? Is there a repetitive loop that you repeat every time you fail at something?
Take one of the failures from above, which initiated the repetitive loop you have identified. Write an alternative account of what happened.
The Importance of Leaders in Building a Learning Culture
Learning is inherently about failing. Leaders can create and reinforce a culture that counteracts the blame game and makes people feel both comfortable with and responsible for surfacing and learning from failures. They should insist on developing a clear understanding of what happened — not of “who did it” — when things go wrong. This requires consistently reporting failures, small and large, systematically analyzing them and proactively searching for opportunities to experiment. A work culture that recognizes the inevitability of failure in today’s complex organizations and is willing to catch, correct and learn from failure leads to success, employee satisfaction and loyalty. A work culture that wallows in the blame game will not.
It’s imperative for leaders to move beyond the false notion that if people aren’t blamed for failures, they’ll become “lazy” and stop putting in the effort to do their best work. In actuality, a culture that makes it safe to admit and report on failure can coexist with high standards for performance. Not all failures are created equal. Taking the time to analyze the reasons behind why a failure occurred before determining appropriate action will do far more for a team than assuming that assigning blame will lead to improvement in the long run.
One interesting study asked executives to estimate how many of the failures in their organizations were truly blameworthy; their answers were usually in single digits — around 2% to 5%. They were then asked how many failures were treated as blameworthy; they admitted that was closer to 70% to 90%. One unfortunate consequence of this scenario is that many failures go unreported, and their lessons are lost.
Ideas for Action
Assess whether your teams offer a sense of psychological safety. Do the members of the team have confidence that the team will not embarrass, reject or punish them for speaking up with ideas? Questions? Concerns? Mistakes? Are each person’s contributions valued? If you answered yes on each measure, that team possesses a strong sense of psychological safety.
Leaders and supervisors need to actively create psychological safety because their position of power or status naturally suppresses people’s ability to speak up. This can be done by publicly acknowledging their own fallibility and emphasizing the need for each person’s contributions. They can also respond positively when people do bring things forward. From the results of the preceding exercise, choose a team with a low or mid-level of psychological safety. Develop an action plan for how the team leader or manager can improve the level of psychological safety.
Like everything in life, reframing failure becomes easier with practice. When failures inevitably occur, remind yourself and others that failure is temporary, and failure is good even if, undeniably, it feels really bad when it happens. When something goes wrong, practice saying, “Something good is happening here.” Look for the greater message of the experience and expect it to, eventually, turn out for the good.
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 recipients: Jesse Alvarez, Ken Beer, Sarah Evans-Cain, Mark Fellows, Amanda Goll, and Darwin Meirndorf! These recipients display excellence in their job performance, supportive attitude, and contributions to MSU. On May 13, they were honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center along with the Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond and Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition award recipients.
You can learn more about each Jack Breslin award recipient below.
Jesse Alvarez
(left to right) Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), Jesse Alvarez (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Jesse Alvarez (right) accepting the Jack Breslin Award from the presenter.
Jesse Alvarez speaking during the awards ceremony.
Jesse Alvarez surrounded by MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Jesse Alvarez is the Law Clinic Manager in the College of Law and has been in his role for 13 years. He is known for his dedication, kindness, and humor. Jesse manages daily MSU Law Clinic operations and assists with projects involving space, systems, and services. He is good-natured, patient, and is considered the best resource for questions regarding office procedures and clinic operations. Here is what his colleagues had to say about him:
“For the purposes of the Jack Breslin Award, I challenge anyone to find someone who more deeply embodies the “Spartan Spirit” than Jesse Alvarez. Jesse does his work with a deep love for Michigan State University and the people who come here to study and work.”
“Jesse is that one-in-a-million staff person that ends up being the glue holding everything together. He is truly a friend and confidant to everyone he meets—faculty, staff, and students alike. He always goes above and beyond to help, often setting aside what he was working on to help. He is not simply the Law Clinic’s office manager, he is the heart of our operation, and he is bettering the lives of all of us.”
“In everything he does, Jesse is mission-driven. He asks himself not whether a task is part of his job but how he can improve the services, both legal and educational, that we seek to provide. He thinks creatively about how to accomplish goals. His understated manner belies his passion for our work and the indispensable role he plays in making it happen.”
(left to right) Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), Ken Beer (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Ken Beer speaking during the awards ceremony.
Ken Beer surrounded by MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Ken Beer is the Senior Fiscal Officer for the College of Communication Arts and Sciences Dean’s Office and has served MSU for over 22 years. Ken’s job duties include the management of all accounts and budget in the ComArtSci Dean’s Office. He is known as “Spartan Spirit” and “Spartans Will” personified. Ken is known, respected, and counted on across MSU for his extraordinary attention to detail, willingness to go the extra mile to help anyone who asks, and his ability to bring people together. Ken’s colleagues had this to say about him:
“Ken possesses a remarkable ability to anticipate the needs of his department and proactively address them. He consistently seeks ways to enhance our processes and procedures, always with a humble approach that considers the well-being of faculty, staff, students and college leaders.”
“Ken’s exceptional dedication, proactive approach, promotion of inclusivity, and unwavering commitment to the College and University make him a most deserving candidate for the Breslin Award. He is not only an asset to our college, but a shining example of what it means to be a Spartan.”
“Ken is one of the most caring people you will ever meet. He is the personification of what it means to be the salt of the earth. Professionally, he is dedicated to modeling what it means to be an outstanding collaborative caretaker of the College of Communication Art and Sciences finances. Personally, his positive, supportive attitude for all whom he meets, no matter their origin or position in life, illuminates what it means to be a true MSU Spartan.”
(left to right) Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), Sarah Evans-Cain (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Sarah Evans-Cain accepting the Jack Breslin Award from the presenter.
Sarah Evans-Cain speaking during the awards ceremony.
Sarah Evans-Cain surrounded by MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Sarah Evans-Cain serves as the Administrative Coordinator for the Lyman Briggs College. She has served MSU for over seven years and her duties include supporting the Assistant Dean, seven academic advisors, two career staff, supervising three student employees, and providing supportive service to 2,000 students and over 60 faculty in the college. She manages classroom scheduling, travel arrangements, calendaring for the SSA team, and academic processes like major changes, overrides, and degree certifications. Here is what her colleagues had to say:
“Sarah is an outstanding coworker. I’ve been continually impressed with her ability to approach every situation with patience, respect, and professionalism. She’s our first line of defense and oftentimes the first impression visitors have of LBC. She has an uncanny ability to make students and families feel comfortable and heard so they leave feeling supported. Sarah is always the first person to jump in and help with any situation and represents what it truly means to be a team player. Not only has she helped us all become better employees and better serve our students, but she also creates a welcoming environment where we all feel we can grow and learn because we’re supported.”
“What truly sets Sarah apart is her patience and kindness. No matter how many times I’ve sought clarification or assistance, she has consistently responded with unwavering patience. Moreover, Sarah consistently goes above and beyond in the office. Her flexibility during times of adversity showcases her care for our success and well-being.”
“Sarah adopts a well-rounded approach to ensure the success of both students and the team. Sarah’s approach to ensuring success is meticulously balanced, catering not only to the students but also to the team. Her empathetic and compassionate nature forms the backbone of her contributions while working with professional staff and students. Her exceptional foresight and intuition in assisting with the implementation of successful strategies are unparalleled, making her an invaluable asset to any team she works with.”
(left to right) Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), Mark Fellows (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Mark Fellows (right) accepting the Jack Breslin Award from the presenter.
Mark Fellows speaking during the awards ceremony.
Mark Fellows is the Communications Manager in the Office of the President and has been with MSU for 15 years. Mark helps lead the development of primary communications materials for MSU’s president and collaborates with University Communications to design effective communications strategies and cultivate communication opportunities for the MSU president. He also works to elevate the reputation of Michigan State University by increasing the visibility of the president and the university in the news media. His colleagues had this to say about him:
“Never one to settle for ‘acceptable,’ always one to push for distinctive value in his writing, Mark’s consistent adherence to a higher standard continues to guide his fundamental ethos and everyday approach to his work. While serving at a high level, and for the highest-profile leader at MSU, Mark has maintained a poised professionalism that embodies the university’s land-grant ethos—humble, hardworking, collaborative, forward-thinking, and inclusive.”
“The maturity, poise and professionalism Mark exhibits in his daily work provide a model for all with whom he interacts, creating a multiplier effect that encourages all to reach for such high standards. His even presence and kind words have buoyed me and others up during some challenging times and inspired us to bring our best selves to work every day.”
“Overall, Mark’s quiet, behind-the-scenes work has provided MSU’s presidents with solid support since 2009. It is the kind of work that is invisible to most, rarely lauded, but so fundamentally necessary to the daily needs of the president and the university. The unpretentious humility and keen intelligence of Mark’s character have undoubtedly contributed to his success in this role, a success worthy of praise and of recognition as a truly distinguished staff member of this great university.”
(left to right) Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), Amanda Goll (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Amanda Goll (right) accepts the Jack Breslin Award from the presenter during the awards ceremony.
Amanda Goll speaking during the awards ceremony.
Amanda Goll surrounded by MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Amanda Goll is the Deputy Chief of Staff for the Office of the President and has been with MSU for 13 years. She wears many hats in the President’s office including human resources officer, budget officer, fiscal officer, supervisor of the office receptionist, and business administrative manager. In addition, Amanda engages in special projects which include representing the President’s Office on university committees, supporting project management, and implementation of key initiatives across campus. Here is what her colleagues had to say:
“Amanda is one of the most trusted sources for advice and counsel among fiscal officers and HR professionals on campus. Through multiple transitions of Presidents, she has been a calm and steady influence with the President’s Office staff. Amanda is also a helpful guide for new staff and a listening ear for both new and experienced staff in navigating the complexity of transition at the very top of the institution. Amanda does this by making herself available as an empathetic listener, who seeks to build relationships and trust among those with whom she interacts.”
“Amanda has an incredible ‘can-do’ attitude that is both professional and welcoming. As one might imagine, the nature of issues she is often asked to resolve can be highly complex and sensitive in nature. Amanda’s creativity and intelligence enable her to handle such complex issues expertly and quickly. Her strong working relationships across departments contribute to her success in tackling what can be very thorny issues.”
“Amanda leads with a focus on being open‐minded, calm, and patient. I know when I meet with Amanda that I have her undivided attention. She is connected and listens. She brings commitment and dedication to any topic and is a highly collaborative partner. Additionally, she is one to ensure all viewpoints are addressed. It’s with her keen sense of listening and observation skills that she can identify and understand needs and initiate ways to support efforts to address those needs.”
(left to right) Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), Darwin Merindorf (Jack Breslin Award Recipient), Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer), and Ray Gasser (Chairman).
Darwin Merindorf accepting the Jack Breslin award from the presenter.
Darwin Merindorf speaking during the awards ceremony.
Darwin Merindorf surrounded by MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Darwin Meirndorf is a boiler mechanic with Infrastructure Planning and Facilities and has been with MSU for 43 years. His work includes customer service, maintaining HVAC and boiler equipment, and coordinating with others across the university on essential mechanical system issues. Darwin’s colleagues had this to say about him:
“Over my years of service at the University, I’ve had conversations with a variety of individuals from different departments. Their stories and interactions are all the same when they speak of Darwin. They all talk about his hard work, knowledge, accountability, character, customer service and actions of going above and beyond his normal job duties. He is always the first person to help family, friends, and the community food bank outside of work as well. He is the type of individual who represents MSU in every aspect the university is looking for in an employee. I know in my heart he is very deserving of this award.”
“Darwin interacts well with customers and coworkers, showing care and consideration for others. During my time working with Darwin, I noticed that when dealing with customers, he would be sure to make initial contact with them to hear their concerns before going to work on the problem. This increases efficiency and reduces the need for a return call by knowing more than just the basic information relayed through the work order. In addition, he made sure to follow up with them to let them know the status of the situation, be it resolved or needing further action from him. Darwin has always been willing to assist anyone in the HVAC shop and make sure everyone is taken care of.”
“I would not be where I am today without Darwin’s knowledge and expertise guiding me and teaching me. Darwin will go anywhere and do anything to help solve my problems. He is priceless. Tears were in my eyes when I gave him a hug before he walked out the door for retirement in 2012, and I was elated when he returned to the university in 2016.”
Congratulations to Meg Quine, the 2023 recipient of the Clerical-Technical Recognition Award!
The annual Clerical-Technical Recognition Award is made possible by Dr. Charles and Marjorie Gliozzo, who established a fund in honor of Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo in 2001. This fund was established to recognize outstanding Clerical-Technical employees at MSU. Dr. Gliozzo has said that “the CT’s are the backbone and the infrastructure of the university, and they deserve recognition.” The recipient is selected from nominations received by the CT Recognition Award Selection Committee.
(Left to Right) Deb Bitner (Clerical-Technical Union President), Thomas Glasmacher (Interim Executive Vice President for Administration), Meg Quine (Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award Recipient), Ray Gasser (Chairman), and Christina K. Brogdon (Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer).
Meg Quine accepts the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award during the ceremony. The award was presented by Christina Brogdon (left) and Deb Bitner.
Christina Brogdon gives Meg Quine a hug after she accepts her award.
Dr. Gliozzo, who established the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award, and Meg Quine, this year’s award recipient.
Meg Quine (center) surrounded by her MSU colleagues, friends, and family.
Meg Quine (left) with the other award recipients.
MSU Human Resources is proud to name Meg Quine as the 2023 recipient of the MSU Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition Award. Meg is the Office Coordinator for the MSU Alumni Office and has been with MSU for 22 years. Meg is a terrific example of the kind of MSU employee this fund was established to recognize. Here is just some of what her leaders and colleagues had to say:
“Meg is a gift to MSU. Her steadfast nature takes in surroundings and situations in a way that allows her to calmly and efficiently make whatever she touches better. Her colleagues and constituents feel seen. She’s responsive and resourceful. Meg’s plate is always full, yet she remains helpful, kind, and positive.”
“The value Meg brings to this organization is beyond measure. She is highly motivated, has a positive attitude, and is a great team member and collaborator. Her work is excellent—she operates with the highest level of professionalism, is creative and innovative, responsive to the needs of the teams, is a problem-solver, and is open to learning and growing. Meg has a wonderful ability to nurture relationships, which is critical to our work.”
“Meg is the MVP in our office, one who too often goes unnoticed and doesn’t ask for attention, but who we immediately would notice as absent if she were not with us. I don’t know a person more deserving of this award than Meg.”
As you can see, Meg is a valuable asset to the Alumni Office and an integral part of the MSU community. Meg was honored at an awards ceremony on May 13, 2024, which honored the Jack Breslin, Ruth Jameyson, and Clerical-Technical award recipients.
We’d also like to thank the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition Award selection committee: Margie Aimery, Brandon Baswell, Deb Bittner, Todd Bradley, Melissa Del Rio, and Jenn Roberts. We greatly appreciate your time and efforts!
This week’s featured job is a Veterinary Nurse for the College of Veterinary Medicine (job posting 954961). The Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine is the destination for teaching, innovation, care, and service while meeting the needs of society in addition to clinical services and education. The College supports animal health programs conducted by both the Michigan Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
In this position, you will supervise a team of veterinary nurses and assistants within the Academic Programs unit of MSU College of Veterinary Medicine. You will actively interact with and coach students using cutting-edge teaching models, specimens, cadavers, and live animals. Your role is integral to managing the teaching lab facilities, cooperative development, and oversight of proper lab protocols.
Your success in this role requires but is not limited to, continued development of your knowledge of veterinary medicine, proficiency, and continual refreshing of clinical skills for instruction and coaching students in an engaged, hands-on, and positive environment. You’ll also need skills in handling animals of multiple species, including behavior and restraint, physical examination, and assessment of normal and abnormal conditions.
The ideal candidate will have two to three years of college, technical, or vocational school with coursework in Veterinary Technology. They would also be licensed as a Veterinary Technician in Michigan or attain licensing within their first year. Work experience would include patient care, surgery, drug dosing, and sterilization. Desired, but not required, qualifications include a Bachelor’s in veterinary technology, experience working with livestock, multi-species animal nursing, and biological sample collection techniques. The candidate should also have leadership training or experience with strong verbal and written communication skills. Find more qualifications and requirements here.
MSU is committed to creating a mentally healthy workplace by providing benefits, programs, and a workplace culture that promotes employee mental health and well-being. However, according to a 2024 SHRM study, “Employees are not taking full advantage of the benefits already being provided. Nearly 70 percent of U.S. workers said they are unaware or only somewhat aware of the available resources.” We want to make sure you are aware of the resources available to support the well-being and mental health of you and your family. We hope this list empowers you to prioritize and invest in your care and well-being.
Trained Mental Health Professional Benefit Resources:
MSU employees, retirees, and their families have access to the Employee Assistance Program which provides confidential counseling at no cost. To best fit with your work schedule, MSU offers both Zoom and in-person appointments. Individuals must be in the state of Michigan to access services due to licensing regulations.
MSU employees and their dependents (age 18+) who are currently enrolled in an MSU health plan have access to Teladoc – an online medical care service that gives you 24/7 access to a healthcare professional via web, phone, or mobile app in minutes. Teladoc’s services extend to behavioral health (anxiety, depression, grief counseling, etc.).
If you are enrolled in an MSU health plan, refer to the Mental Health Care section of the health care plan summary (support staff or faculty/academic staff) for specific details about mental health benefits.
MSU Health Promotion and Engagement offers a helpful how-to-find a therapist page that lists common questions to ask yourself and a potential therapist to make sure you find the right fit.
Well-being Tools and Resources:
MSU Health Promotion and Engagement shares Self-Paced Tools and Resources to Foster Your Well–being, which includes apps, podcasts, courses, outdoor adventures, self-assessments, support groups, and other resources to help with your emotional well-being.
The Spartan Resilience Education Program, through a variety of media and teaching formats, seeks to ensure that resilience education is accessible, inclusive, and ever-present as part of the “Spartan Experience.” They aim to provide opportunities for any spartan, anywhere to develop (or strengthen) the skills needed to effectively respond to their unique collection of challenges.
Learning the basic principles presented in the Breaking Free from Stress course (session dates for 2024 will be released as they are confirmed) will help you have less day-to-day stress and more joy and satisfaction as you increase your capacity to live your life lined up with your deepest wisdom and greatest sense of purpose. Please email prodev@hr.msu.edu to request notification when registration becomes available and include the course title in the email heading.
Mindful STATE is a university-wide, collaborative initiative to further the practice of mindfulness and other contemplative practices among members of the MSU community. Join fellow Spartans Lisa Laughman, Meg Moore, or John Taylor for a brief meditation to help you return to a more mindful state. Meditation videos are available for when you’re feeling overwhelmed, worried about someone, or feeling stressed.
The WorkLife Office creates an inclusive, responsive work environment that respects and supports all employees toward wellbeing in their work and personal lives.
Join an Employee Resources Group to help foster inclusivity and build community with others who have common lived experiences. The following groups are available: adult caregivers, family, international employees, post-parental leave, and women’s networking association.
View this past webinar called Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation, which discusses the US Surgeon General’s report on the pervasive issues of loneliness and isolation. Learn about the impact of these challenges on mental and physical health, along with effective strategies and best practices to address these concerns, enhancing community and connectedness.
Review the Well-being at Work Guide to learn how to create and maintain healthier and happier workspaces and teams.
Request a presentation or workshop from the MSU WorkLife Office on various topics to improve workplace well-being.
Health4U focuses on all aspects of health with resources, support groups, and educational courses.
TheMSU Grief and Loss Support Group meets weekly (virtually) to support individuals grieving the loss of a friend, loved one, co-worker, or family member.
The Healing Power of Guided Imagery program takes place at Abrams Planetarium. Guided imagery is a form of directed daydreaming that relaxes the mind and engages the senses in the physical and emotional healing process.
The Rest with Music program takes place at Abrams Planetarium. This series of live musical performances aims to help you relax during your busy workday.
The Beal Botanical Garden is a favorite place for people from campus and the community to unplug from the chaos of their everyday lives and enjoy the beauty of plants and nature.
The Nurture Your Roots program invites you to connect mind, body, and nature with practices to enrich well-being.
Explore mindfulness through journaling with their Pocket Journal designed by Beal Scholar Elliot Pancioli. During the warmer season, they offer Yoga in the Garden. These classes are free, but registration is required. Watch the events page for more information.
They also offer our Campus Meditation Map, which highlights places across campus where you can take a moment to center yourself and practice self-care, or just enjoy a beautiful view.
Local Resources:
24-Hour Crisis Services (Walk-In and Mobile): The City of East Lansing provides walk-in or mobile crisis counseling and mental health assistance around the clock.
Online Mental Health Screening: Ingham County Health Department offers free and anonymous behavioral health screening, linking resources connected to your results.
If we missed any MSU resources in the above list, please let us know in the comments!
