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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!

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: Veterinary Social Worker

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This week’s featured job is a Veterinary Social Worker for the College of Veterinary Medicine (posting 883898). The College of Veterinary Medicine has been instructing veterinary students since 1855 and now features three biomedical science departments—microbiology and molecular genetics, pathobiology and diagnostic investigation, and pharmacology and toxicology.

This position will serve the College of Veterinary Medicine by providing grief support and community resources by request from clients, ensuring client documentation is confidential and providing referrals to community mental health professionals.The future Veterinary Social Worker will also help develop wellness practices for the CVM Clinical team while also speaking to community groups about social work services.

The Veterinary Social Worker should have a Bachelor’s degree in social work with state licensure. They should also have 3-5 years of field experience, preferably veterinary-related. It is also recommended that they are familiar with state animal laws.

To learn more about the College of Veterinary Medicine, visit their website. To apply for the position, please submit a resume, cover letter and three professional references on the MSU Careers Website by August 8. 

What Service Members Bring to the Workforce

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E-5 Sergeant Doug Resseguie
E-5 Sergeant Doug Resseguie

MSU is emphasizing the importance of hiring veterans and illuminating the challenges service members encounter when seeking employment. One of MSU’s own, former E-5 Sergeant Doug Resseguie, served for a combined 12 years in the U.S. Military and Michigan Army National Guard. He served on combat tours including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield. MSU HR had the honor of learning more from Doug about his transition from military service to the workforce, where he currently works in MSU Information Technology. 

Why do you think it is important for employers to hire veterans?

Response: There are many reasons for employers to hire military veterans. The United States military does an excellent job of developing core competency skills that are essential to organizations. The training and experience of people who have served in the armed forces are designed to develop talent and instill confidence resulting in individuals who can work independently or in teams to accomplish their mission. Today, most employers will invest a significant amount of capital into professional development, but by hiring a veteran these skills have been established and proven in real-world situations.

What did you learn during your service that has transpired into skills in the workplace?

Response: I credit much of my success in life to the essential training, hands-on field experience, and self-discipline that I developed during my military service. I incrementally gained leadership skills throughout my time in the military in addition to the critical life-long skill of respect, both for myself and others. Lastly, my career today in Telecommunications initially started with my military occupational specialty training at Fort Gordon in the United States Army Signal Corps.

How has being a veteran influenced your career path and what experiences do you bring to the table?

Response: My career path was positively impacted by the depth of training and experience I gained by serving my country in the military. I developed a well-rounded set of skills that enable me to adapt to nearly any situation in life including integrity, honor, discipline, collaboration, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and self-sufficiency.    

Can you share a memorable success story from your transition from the military to civilian employment?

Response: Probably the most popular story is that I work as an operations manager for a mission-critical team, which translates into regularly solving problems or crisis situations. People often ask how I stay so calm and focused during these high-pressure situations.I share that my military experience helped me develop mental toughness, effective communication skills, and a larger frame of reference.

In what ways could employers better support veteran employees? Please share any advice you have for employers who are looking to hire veterans.

Response: First, I will start with advice: do not underestimate the raw potential, sheer determination, or grit of any veteran who has faithfully served America! This individual has proven they are loyal by putting their life in harm’s way to protect others. They have learned to thrive in adverse conditions and will always do their best to do a good job or accomplish their mission because that is what they were trained to do. To better support veteran employees, tell them more about your business’s mission, vision, and goals. Let them share what other valuable skills and abilities they have that may not have been considered or listed in the civilian job posting. 

hand with painted nails holding an ice cream cone in front of the dairy store entrance with the sign in the background

Thank you MSU Dairy Store!

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All Spartans know that the best ice cream around can be found right on MSU’s campus at the MSU Dairy Store. However, they may not know the deep history of dairy at Michigan State. 

In 1867, the first cow was brought to MSU, leading what would become a renowned dairy program. The first Dairy Barn at Michigan State would be assigned in 1900, however, in 1913, the Dairy Building was constructed. The Dairy Building contained practical training equipment for students and instructors. 

A new dairy plant would find its home in Anthony Hall, named after Ernest L. Anthony, the former head of the Dairy Department. This plant would then provide milk and numerous other dairy products to Michigan State residence halls. The deep history of dairy products and education being provided to students continues on at Anthony Hall at the MSU Dairy Store. 

With a total of 12 available ice cream flavors on their menu, the MSU Dairy Store has something for everyone. Their most popular flavors include Spartan Swirl, Leelanau Black Cherry and Tucker’s Scoop & Score.

The Dairy Store can also be seen on wheels during MSU football games and other special events. Their services also extend to catering and feature a retail selection of Michigan-made products. 

The MSU Dairy Store is located at 1140 S. Anthony Hall. Visit their website for their current hours.

Thank you MSU Dairy Store for your friendly service, amazing ice cream flavors and delicious treats!

Human Resources' Jake Lathrop selected as the next Chairperson for CUPA-HR Board of Directors

Jake Lathrop, HR’s Consultant to the VP, Selected for CUPA-HR’s Midwest Region Board of Directors

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

Jake Lathrop, Consultant to the Vice President of Human Resources, has been selected as the next leader of the CUPA-HR Midwest Region Board of Directors.  Jake will begin his term as Region Board Chair on July 1 and will serve in this role for one year before moving into the Past-Chair role.  CUPA-HR’s Midwest region is one of four regions nationally and consists of twelve states and the respective state Chapter boards within.

Jake has served on CUPA-HR’s Midwest Region board for four years.  Prior to that, he was on the CUPA-HR Michigan Chapter board for four years, where he also served as president. He has been a member of the association’s Public Policy Committee and Learning and Professional Development Committee and was selected for the 2018-19 cohort of the Emerging CUPA-HR Leaders Program.  Jake has presented at numerous state, region, and national conferences and virtual programs. 

“It is humbling to be selected for this role and an absolute honor to serve my higher ed colleagues in this capacity,” Lathrop shared.  “I am especially honored to represent MSU throughout every CUPA-HR interaction, and to share with colleagues across the country the amazing work that Spartans do.”

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

Put Mental Health First Now and Beyond

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In light of recent events, it’s important to reflect on how you prioritize your mental health, how you talk about it with your supervisors and how supervisors can  support the mental health of their teams. Emphasize rest and recognition, learn about your self-care preferences and learn how to utilize the resources available to you.

Make sure you’re aware of this list of support resources available to MSU employees to help move through this moment:

Why We Prioritize

Mental health should be treated and discussed the same as physical health because they are often connected but rarely given equal priority. To break that cycle, make it a part of your everyday habits and conversations.

Other reasons to prioritize mental health include:

  • Having a demanding job makes it easy to put work over mental and physical health, but it is not worth it in the long run as this can lead to burnout.
  • In a time of mostly online interactions, some of the natural in-person social interactions that are missing can inadvertently lower well-being.
  • Therapy is still stigmatized, and seeking out expert help for your mental health helps release that thinking.

Self-Care Ideas

Becoming burnt out at work is easier than you might think, and the best way to heal from or prevent burnout is to form healthy self-care habits. Engaging in self-care in the simplest terms is making sure that as you prioritize work, you also prioritize adequate sleep, nutrition, meaningful connection, and exercise. Other suggestions for self-care include:

  • Unplug when social media and news get overwhelming.
  • Treat yourself with compassion no matter how you respond to burnout.
  • Enjoy the little things like a walk outside or some cuddles with your pet. 
  • If you’re on campus and looking for a nice spot to rest, check out this incredible Campus Meditation Map created by Beal Scholar student Anhad Viswanath.
  • Close your laptop at the end of the workday and do your best not to open it again until the morning.
  • Seek out help from an expert rather than solely relying on yourself or your team for mental health related answers.

Start the Conversation with Your Team

You don’t have to be the supervisor on your team to start a discussion around mental health. Use empathy to address situations regarding mental health and give your coworkers space to speak openly about their experience. If you aren’t sure how to start the conversation, use the MSU resources linked below and ease into it.

If you are a supervisor, here are four ways you can show appreciation for your team in support of their mental well-being:

  1. Show sincere interest in the needs, hopes, and dreams of other people.
  2. Watch for signs of burnout in yourself and others and consider registering for the WorkLife Office training How to Recognize and Minimize Burnout.
  3. Demonstrate a willingness to help others and refer to appropriate resources.
  4. Lead with compassion to contribute to a welcoming and inclusive workplace culture.

MSU recognizes the value of its employees and to show appreciation for the important work we all do, several departments, including the WorkLife Office, provide a variety of resources to support our well-being: 

sparty statue in fall

2023 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 2023 award and the nomination form and accompanying materials are due October 28, 2022. 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. Please review the nomination form and the HR website for further details. Do not notify the nominee before or after submitting your nomination. The nomination form, supervisor approval and accompanying materials are due October 28, 2022. Contact MSU Human Resources with any questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu.

Checkist

Time to Choose Your Benefits for 2023: Your Open Enrollment Checklist

Published on by Megan MacGregorLeave a comment

October is just around the corner, which means the MSU Benefits Open Enrollment period (October 1-31) is about to begin for benefits-eligible employees. Please use the following checklist to help guide you through Open Enrollment and be sure to make your benefit selections for the 2023 plan year between October 1-31, 2022.

1. Determine your benefit needs

During Open Enrollment (October 1-31), you may enroll in, change or cancel coverage in the following benefits:

  • Health
  • Dental
  • Flexible spending accounts (health and/or dependent care)
  • Life or accidental death and dismemberment insurance
  • Some voluntary benefits, including vision, legal and critical illness insurance

Make sure you review the Open Enrollment guide carefully and choose the best benefit plans for your family.

2. Complete the spouse/other eligible individual (OEI) affidavit

If you want to cover a spouse/OEI on your benefits plan, you MUST complete the affidavit online through the EBS Portal every year. Find instructions to complete the affidavit as part of Open Enrollment.

3. Review notable information for the 2023 plan year

Notable information for the 2023 plan year includes:

  • Monthly premiums for voluntary legal insurance through ARAG have increased for the 2023 plan year. Visit MSUBenefitsPlus.comto view updated rates. Find instructions to enroll, change or cancel coverage in the Open Enrollment guide.
  • Many MSU employees are now working in a remote or hybrid situation. If this includes you, please review the important guidance on health care and dental plan options in the Open Enrollment guide (see page 5) prior to enrolling in a plan.

Find all notable information on page 5 of the Open Enrollment guide.

4. Make your changes online before October 31

If you want to make changes to your benefit selections and/or cover a spouse/OEI on your benefit plans, you must participate in Open Enrollment between October 1-31 (view enrollment instructions).

5. Participate in the MSU Benefits Fair and HR Site Labs or use the online benefit provider resources

Please Note: events are subject to change at any time. Please review the most updated details on the HR website prior to attending.

  • MSU Benefits Fair: We will be having an in-person benefits fair on October 19 from Noon to 7:00 p.m. at the Breslin Student Events Center on campus. MSU benefit providers and MSU HR staff will be available to answer questions and/or help you enroll in your benefits on-site. The MSU Health Care Pharmacy will be offering flu shots during the fair by appointment only. The appointment calendar (managed by MSU Health Care Pharmacy) will close when all appointments are filled or 48 hours prior to the event.  Learn more about the fair and how to make an appointment for the flu shot.
  • HR Site Labs: MSU HR will offer site labs on October 6 (in-person and virtual) and October 31 (in-person). Consider attending if you have questions about your benefit options or need assistance with enrollment. Learn how to participate in a site lab on the HR website.

We hope this checklist is helpful as you prepare for and participate in Open Enrollment this year. You can find all the details about Open Enrollment on the HR website, including links to the appropriate benefits guide, enrollment instructions, and detailed benefits information.

Questions? We’re happy to help! We encourage you to get in touch via phone or email. Limited in-person help will be available by appointment only. Please call or email the HR Solutions Center at 517-353-4434 or SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu to make an appointment or ask a question.