Category: Fun & Resources

Learn about fun and/or interesting things to do around MSU or interesting bits of MSU trivia.

HR Represented on the Spartan Bus Tour

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

Last month, Michigan State University President Kevin M. Guskiewicz, Ph.D., and a group of faculty and administrators set out on the inaugural Spartan Bus Tour. They visited locations throughout the western Lower Peninsula of Michigan to build community connections and strengthen MSU’s commitment to education, research, outreach and extension.

MSU Human Resources was fortunate to be represented on the Bus Tour by two team members, Sherri Reese, PhD, Director of Talent, and Bianca Price, Customer Service Experience Manager. Along with President Guskiewicz and a delegation of faculty and administrators, they explored the breadth and depth of the university’s research, outreach, and education impact. They visited more than a dozen places around the state where MSU is partnering with local communities to change Michigan and the world for the better.

We asked Sherri and Bianca to share their experiences on the inaugural Spartan Bus Tour and this is what they had to say:

Tell us about your favorite stop on the tour.

Sherri: Visiting Martinez Farm in Conklin was incredibly inspiring. Seeing how the Great Lakes Latina/o Farmers Program empowers first-generation farmers through hands-on agricultural training was a highlight. Hearing the owner’s journey from migrant worker to farm owner deeply resonated with me, reflecting my own family’s experiences. Achieving farm ownership from such beginnings is no small feat, and the farm’s commitment to sustainable agriculture and community engagement left a lasting impression.

Bianca: My favorite stop was on Day Two at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club. One of my goals for the tour was to learn more about the Spartans I serve and find connections between what I observed and my improving my role in HR. As a result, Arcadia’s approach to merging operational efficiency with a high-impact customer experience resonated deeply with me. By prioritizing customer feedback, they have refined their service in a way that draws a clear line to my work—demonstrating that operational excellence and a strong customer experience are inseparable. This insight reinforces my commitment to building a responsive, operationally efficient, people-centered culture at MSU.

What was the best part about spending time with the President, faculty, and staff from around the university?

Sherri: Spending time with President Guskiewicz and colleagues from various departments was a unique chance to learn about the diverse initiatives across our university. These interactions fostered a sense of unity and collaboration, strengthening our collective commitment to the university’s mission.

Bianca: The best part of spending time with the President was witnessing servant leadership. He and his team went above and beyond to make each stop memorable, personable, and enjoyable- embodying excellence at every turn for each community and Spartan on the bus.

Connecting with faculty and staff from across the university was equally inspiring. Every Spartan on the bus was passionate about expanding their impact and supporting fellow Spartans. Sharing ideas on how to amplify MSU’s initiatives showed me the strength of our community and our shared commitment to making a difference for Michigan and MSU.

What takeaways from this experience excite you most about your work in HR?

Sherri: This tour underscored the value of supporting programs that champion diversity and inclusion, like the Great Lakes Latina/o Farmers Program. In HR, this motivates me to keep developing initiatives that empower every member of our university community, ensuring they have the resources and support to thrive.

Bianca: Two takeaways stood out: a commitment to continuous improvement and a spirit of curiosity and collaboration in problem-solving. Just as MSU serves communities statewide, we in HR strive to build an adaptive, supportive workplace where curiosity drives us to find new ways to meet employee needs. Every improvement we make directly impacts employee satisfaction and strengthens my dedication to advancing MSU’s mission. 

The tour reminded me that while innovation propels us forward, combining it with our land-grant tradition allows us to solve problems thoughtfully, honoring the past while creating a brighter future. This blend of curiosity, tradition, and forward-thinking inspires me to keep evolving in my role.

Through these experiences, it is evident that MSU has a presence and continues to invest in communities all over Michigan with an enduring dedication to helping the state thrive. In each of those places, Spartans are valued parts of the community who translate research into actionable solutions that improve the lives of Michiganders.

  • Bus Tour attendees post on the beach with the Spartan Helmet flag
  • Bianca Price, HR's Customer Service Experience Manager, gets her hat signed by the MSU President.
  • Bus tour attendees inside the bus laughing
  • Bus tour attendees posing on the lawn together waving
  • Bus tour attendees pose together in an apple orchard
  • Bus tour attendees pose in front of the bus at the Kellogg Center

Resources

Learn more about the Spartan Bus Tour and its impact through these resources:

The 60th Annual MSU Arts and Crafts Show. The Winter and Spring Arts and Crafts Shows are fundraisers for the University Activities Board in the MSU Union. Sponsored by Student Life & Engagement.

Winter Events and Holiday Shopping

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

If you and your family are looking for upcoming winter events and holiday shopping, you’ve come to the right place! November and December hold many opportunities in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Click the links below to explore future events and register if required! 

Holiday Shopping

Online – Student-Made Michigan State: This holiday season, give back to the MSU student community by purchasing gifts from the Student Marketplace!

November 7th- December 21st – Michigan Made Holiday Exhibition & Market: Join us every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from November 7th to December 21st for artwork ranging from fine arts to small gifts to jewelry, paintings, pottery, leatherworks, and more! 

November 15th – Holiday Shopping Night at Impressions 5: Kick off this holiday season at this annual event and find unique STEM-related gifts, toys, books, and more for your loved ones! Enjoy festive drinks, music, and gift wrapping, as proceeds go 100% to a mission-based non-profit organization, Impressions 5. 

December 7th – Holiday Market: From 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., visit the Lansing Shuffleboard and Social Club to get into the holiday spirit. Shop local vendors and try some food from our vendors as well!

December 7th & 8th – Winter Arts & Crafts Show: The Annual Arts and Crafts Show is a beloved event here at MSU, and also serves as a fundraiser for the University Activities Board (UAB). All vendor booth proceeds go directly to UAB, and this event will be held in the MSU Union. Visit the website for more information on times and parking details! 

Campus Events

Throughout November – Native American Heritage Month Events and Educational Programs: As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month throughout November, MSU kicks off the month with back-to-back events, amplifying the voices of Indigenous students, staff, faculty, and organizations on campus. Events include lectures from MSU or invited speakers, craft workshops and participation in discussions, and social lunch events that will help attendees learn more about North American Indigenous people, culture, history, and customs and help build community among each other.

November 13th – Make Art, Make Change!: Join us from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 pm. at the MSU Broad Art Museum to amplify your voice through artmaking and community. There will be snacks, music, and good vibes included! Please visit their website to register for this free event. 

November 14th & December 12th –  Deepening your Essential Skills: If you have completed a Spartan Resilience Education course, you are eligible to continue learning at this webinar. You can ask questions, raise topics, and build community with your peers. Be sure to register for this free course through the link above! 

November 29th – December 22nd – Season of Light Show: Fridays & Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 4:00 p.m., visit the Abrams Planetarium for a viewing of the Season of Light show! Many customs we observe during the holiday season have an astronomical connection – learn more at one of their shows. 

December 7th – MSU Symphony Orchestra and Choirs, “Holiday Glory”: The Wharton Center will be hosting more than 250 voices in the MSU Symphony Orchestra to celebrate the joy and spirit of the holiday season!

December 12th – Mariachi Herencia de Mexico: A Mariachi Christmas: Celebrate the holidays with A Mariachi Christmas performance with the two-time Latin GRAMMY-nominated band performing Mexican and American Christmas favorites. Be sure to secure your tickets now!

December 14th – Cocoa and Collection at the Broad Art Museum: From 1:00 p.m. to  3:00 p.m., you and your family can come on down to the Broad Art Museum to enjoy hot chocolate and create wintry works of art inspired by their collection! Please visit our website to register for this free, family-fun-filled event! 

December 15th– Holiday Pops at the Wharton Center: The Lansing Symphony Orchestra will be performing classic holiday music and putting on a heartwarming celebration for the whole family at the Wharton Center. Hear more than 100 local voices sing and be transported by the joyous and soulful sounds of local talent! 

Greater Lansing Area Events

November 16th – Pie Making Class: From 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sweet Encounter Bakery Cafe will teach you how to make your own Salted Caramel Apple Pie! You will walk away with a pie of your own and a recipe to share with your family and friends. Here you can learn how to make a delicious gluten-free crust, a lattice pie, and cinnamon ice cream to top it all off. This class is for those ages 13 and up, and registration costs $89 per person. Check out the website to secure your tickets now! 

November 22- Silver Bells in the City: Are you ready to see the entire city shine? Join us in Downtown Lansing for a tradition of lights, music, and more to celebrate the city and the start of the holiday season. Be sure to visit the website for more information on this free family event! 

November 23rd- December 23rd – Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo: Take a leisurely stroll through the zoo’s festively illuminated pathways, where you’ll be surrounded by the warm, inviting glow of twinkling lights every Thursday-Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Additionally on December 1st, Toys for Tots will be holding their annual drive at the Potter Park Zoo, and as a thank you for your donations you will receive free entry to Wonderland of Lights.

December 7th – East Lansing Winter Fest: Come by the Hannah Community Center for a celebration of all things winter. This free event will have indoor and outdoor activities, ice carving, crafts, and more! 

Opening Image Credits: The 60th Annual MSU Arts and Crafts Show. Photo courtesy of University Communications.

several gifts in various wrapping papers and ribbons sitting on a red platform.

Don’t Forget Your MSU Employee Discounts this Holiday Season!

Published on by Josh WorleyLeave a comment

As a benefits-eligible MSU employee, you can access various discounts and savings to help you make the most of the holiday season. On the MSU Benefits Plus website, you will find special offers on products such as electronics, toys, and more!

To access all the discounts, visit the MSU Benefits Plus website, enter your MSU email, click Get Started, and enter your password. First-time users will need to create a new account using the link below the login fields. You will need your MSU ZPID number for the form, which is located on your MSU Spartan ID Card or in the EBS Portal.

The following are a few of the deals you will find (please note these discounts are frequently updated):

  • Apple: Save with employee pricing on iPhones, iMacs, and more.
  • Chordify: Up to 60% off music lessons with a Chordify Premium yearly subscription.
  • Crocs: $20 off orders of $100 or more in shoes and accessories. Use code CROCS20 at checkout.
  • Dell: Exclusive member pricing on all PCs, electronics, and accessories.
  • Garmin: 20% off list price on wearables and smartwatches.
  • GE Appliance Store: 30% and more off MSRP on select appliances. Use code COREEXT21.
  • Great Wolf Lodge: Save up to 30% year-round. Use code CORESTREAM when booking.
  • HP: Up to 40% off computers and accessories.
  • Kiwi Crate: Receive 30% off your first month on this kids’ educational subscription box featuring fun STEM-based projects.
  • PremiumSeatsUSA.com: Save 10% with promo code CORESTREAM.
  • Restaurants.com: 20% off all certificates.
  • Rosetta Stone: Get a Lifetime Subscription with Unlimited Languages for $149 (normally $299).
  • Tiqets: Save over 40% on top museums, zoos, aquariums, theme parks and more.
  • Wharton Center: Save 10-15% on select performances.

The HR website also offers other deals you can find around the university through the MSU Tech Store, MSU Bakers, and the Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, among others. For more information on discounts through MSU Benefits Plus, visit the HR website. If you have any questions about the discounts, please call MSU Benefits Plus at 888-758-7575.

Nominate a Deserving Support Staff Employee for one of these Prestigious Awards!

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

We are excited to be seeking nominations for three prestigious awards available to support staff: the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition, Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond, and Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff awards!

All award nominations are due Friday, November 8, 2024.

Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award

The Clerical-Technical Recognition Award is presented annually to a Michigan State University support staff member performing Clerical-Technical duties. The recipient is selected from nominations received by the CT Recognition Award Selection Committee. The award is sponsored by the Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo Endowment Fund to recognize outstanding MSU Clerical-Technical employees. Last year’s recipient was Meg Quine, Office Coordinator in the MSU Alumni Office. Learn more about the award on the web page, Clerical-Technical Recognition Award.

To nominate an employee, complete the nomination form and return to serviceawards@hr.msu.edu by November 8. 

Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond Award

This annual award recognizes a support staff member who most closely exemplifies the contributions, personal characteristics, and commitment to MSU demonstrated by Ms. Jameyson, going “above and beyond” what is reasonably expected in supporting the mission of MSU. In recognition of Ms. Jameyson’s own pursuit of a graduate degree while working at MSU, the award recipient must be pursuing a graduate degree at MSU or elsewhere concurrent with their employment at MSU. Last year’s recipient was Lori Fischer, Director of Operations for the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. Learn more about the award on the web page, Ruth Jameyson Above and Beyond Award.

To nominate an employee, complete the nomination form and return to Ray Gasser at gasserra@msu.edu by November 8.

Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award

This award is presented annually to six university support staff members selected by the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Selection Committee. 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. Criteria for selection of 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. Last year’s recipients were Jesse Alvarez, Ken Beer, Sarah Evans-Cain, Mark Fellows, Amanda Goll, and Darwin Meirndorf. Learn more about the award on the web page, Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award.

To nominate an employee, complete the nomination form and return to serviceawards@hr.msu.edu by November 8. 

We appreciate your time and effort in submitting a nomination for this year’s awards. The awards committees look forward to learning about these outstanding employees!

The MSU Benefits Fair will be on October 3 from Noon to 7 p.m. at the Breslin Student Events Center. The HR Site Labs will be on the following dates, times, and locations: There will be a virtual site lab on October 16, a site lab at the international center on October 22, and a site lab at the HR building on October 31.

Mark Your Calendar: Upcoming Open Enrollment Events

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

With the MSU Benefits Open Enrollment period rapidly approaching (October 1–31), you may have questions about your benefit options for the 2025 plan year. We are ready to answer your questions and help you enroll in your 2025 benefit options.

Mark your calendars and join us at the following events!

MSU Benefits Fair

Visit the fair to enroll in your benefits on-site or speak with MSU benefit providers and HR staff. The MSU Pharmacy will provide flu shots from Noon to 5:00 p.m. by appointment only.

When:

  • Benefits Fair: Thursday, October 3 from Noon to 7:00 p.m.
  • (Updated September 30) Flu Shots: Appointments at the Fair are no longer available, but can be made for an in-pharmacy flu shot with MSU Health Care Pharmacy.

Where:

The MSU Benefits Fair will be held at the Breslin Student Events Center Concourse. Learn more about the MSU Benefits Fair on the HR website, including how to make an appointment for your flu shot, parking information, and participating providers.

HR Site Labs

MSU HR will be available to answer questions and help you enroll in your benefits at the following site labs.

When and Where:

  • October 16 | 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Virtual (see the HR Site Lab webpage for virtual link)
  • October 22 | 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. | International Center, 427 N. Shaw Ln, Spartan Rooms B and C, East Lansing, MI 48824
  • October 31 | 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. | HR Building, 1407 S. Harrison Rd, Room 125, East Lansing, MI 48823

Learn more about the HR Site Labs on the HR website, including directions, parking information, and how to join the virtual site lab.

As always, you can find information about all things Open Enrollment on the HR website. In addition to the events above, the HR Solutions Center is available to answer your questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434 (toll-free: 800-353-4434).

Back-to-School Discounts for the 2024-25 School Year

Published on by Josh WorleyLeave a comment

Whether your family loves shopping for back to school, or they dread it every year, MSU Benefits Plus has you covered. All benefit-eligible employees can log into the MSU Benefits Plus portal with their MSU email address, and find dozens of discounts to get you and your family heading back to school in style without paying full price. 

Below are just a few examples of what might be useful this time of year. 

Computer & Electronics

Technology is now an essential part of the school supply list so enjoy extra savings on those investments through a variety of retailers, even here at MSU. 

  • Apple: Receive employee pricing on the products you want
  • Dell: Get the best pricing available on all Dell PCs, electronics and accessories
  • HP: Save up to 62% off the full portfolio of HP products
  • Lenovo: Save up to 67% during Lenovo’s Back to School Event
  • Microsoft Office: Save over 70% on Microsoft Office Home and Business
  • MSU Tech Store: Purchase all kinds of tech with prices exclusive to MSU staff, faculty, and students

Clothing and Apparel

Everyone wants a great outfit for their first day of school, whether you’re a student, an educator, or even if it’s just another day at the office. 

  • Bombas: 20% off with code CORESTREAM20 (plus a pair is donated with every pair purchased!) 
  • Crocs: Save $20 off a purchase of $100 or more using the code CROCS20
  • Spartan Spirit Shops: Visit any Shop in person and show your Faculty/Staff ID for 20% off!

Education 

Learn a new skill, stock up on textbooks for those fall courses, and show your Spartan spirit, all at a discount through these local organizations. 

  • Spartan Bookstore: 10% off new and used books when you show your ID
  • Student Book Store: 10% of your whole purchase (excluding computer software and calculators) when you show your ID
  • Method Learning: Up to 20% off SAT/ACT prep, college advising and more

For all of these discounts and more visit the HR Website or the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Employees can also call Benefits Plus at 888-758-7575 with any questions. Back-to-School is on at Michigan State!

person sitting in front of their laptop wearing headphones, speaking during a virtual meeting

Spartans’ Top Tips for Successful Hybrid or Remote Work

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

Since MSU has a Remote Work Policy, many of us work a hybrid or remote schedule or are considering doing so in the future.

We asked Spartans who work all over campus to share their best tips for their hybrid or remote work schedules. The top tips below cover leveraging Teams, establishing a consistent routine, staying connected with colleagues, and more.

Tips for a Successful Hybrid Schedule

“Having a docking station at home and work makes things very seamless. A daily morning routine to get yourself focused for work is also helpful.” –Elizabeth V.

“Our team takes turns covering the administrative office, so we are always open, and everyone gets to work from home a few days a week. During our weekly Zoom meetings, we talk through shared tasks and have a few laughs. We also have mini-retreats each semester to plan for big events, projects, and challenges. The hybrid schedule helps us to focus and enhance productivity while giving our staff the flexibility to achieve better life balance.” –Mary Beth G.

“Work with your team to determine the best days for in-person and remote work. Put a sign at your desk letting people know when you are remote or in-person and how to reach you. Add reminders to your calendar at the end of your location transition day to bring your work materials with you for the next morning. When switching from remote to in-office, place your bags by the door the night before to help you remember. Use a laptop with a docking station for an easy transition. When remote, reach out to coworkers to ensure everything is running smoothly and see how their day is going.” –Brooke P.

“I highly recommend using the Microsoft Teams apps: Tasks by Planner and To Do and Remind Myself. Tasks by Planner and To-Do allows me to create a digital list of tasks and arrange them by priority, due date, and active or completed. Remind Myself is for tasks unsuited to my calendar but require attention. The application provides the option to list and snooze your reminders. All reminders appear as a chat notification in Teams. Both applications allow me to remain focused and organized in the office and home!” –Bianca P.

“Wake up at the same time, no matter where you work. Keep a notebook of your daily tasks that is easy to carry back and forth. I have a file on a shared drive to access from both locations. Try to maintain a healthy diet at home and in the office. Exercise daily—podcasts make it fun. Take time when you are in the office to connect with others.” –Sue S.

“To ensure I have the information I need in the office and at home, I have a file folder holder I keep important documents in that I take back and forth. The files stay in the folder until I need them.” –Rhonda B.

Tips for a Successful Remote Schedule

“My team has co-working times–Teams meetings where team members join for a set amount of time. We discuss how we’re doing, what we’ve been working on, and what we want to work on during our time together. The meetings keep us connected and allow us to get help if needed.” –Kelly S.

“When working remotely, put on music you like. I listen to my ‘Liked Songs’ playlist for a happy boost. I also like to put on a video I’ve seen multiple times that I can ignore. As a former teacher, I would often grade papers and write lesson plans with the movie, ‘You’ve Got Mail’ playing in the background.” –Corinne L.

“I think it is important for people working remotely or in a hybrid setting to have a designated office space (not a dining room or kitchen table). Remote work comes with its perks. If I don’t have a Zoom meeting all day, I will usually dress a little more comfortably. On days when I have meetings, I will dress as if I were going to the office. Do what makes you comfortable and productive! Be sure to take breaks too! I will sometimes block my calendar for my lunch break so I don’t forget and others will see that I am away on my calendar.” –Marie G.

“Stay in a routine, utilize your calendar and practice good time management. Stay in touch with your team and if you are caught up, ask your supervisor if you can do more to help. Take your designated lunch hour to maintain your routine. Time management skills are key to working remotely. Set yourself weekly and daily goals to accomplish tasks in an effective and timely manner.” Christine H.

Thank you to everyone who shared their ideas! If you have more tips, share them in the comments!

Deals and Discounts for Father’s Day

Published on by Josh WorleyLeave a comment

Father’s Day is right around the corner, and if you are still looking to show the dad in your life that you care, look no further than these discounts! Whether it’s your dad, husband, father-in-law or any other important guy in your life, take advantage of these exclusive Father’s Day savings using MSU Benefits Plus.

To access all the discounts, visit MSU Benefits Plus and sign up for a free account using your MSU email address.

Check out some of these deals that you can find through MSU Benefits Plus:

Sports

  • Forest Akers Golf Course – MSU employees with a valid MSU ID receive reduced rates on playing and shopping at the two 18-hole championship layout golf courses and two full-service golf shops!
  • Premium Seats USA – Get 10% off sporting event tickets on Premium Seats USA using the code CORESTREAM at checkout.

Technology

  • Dell – MSU Benefits Plus members get the best pricing available on all Dell PCs, electronics and accessories with the Dell Member Purchase Program.
  • Apple – MSU employees qualify for preferred pricing on all of Apple’s latest products. This includes employee pricing and ratings and reviews on accessories and software. Order from the online Apple EPP store and identify yourself as a Corestream member when purchasing.

Shopping and Entertainment

  • Tickets at Work – MSU employees can save up to 40% on movie tickets nationwide.
  • MSU Meat Lab – MSU employees with a valid MSU ID can receive a discount on quality meats and other items right on campus.
  • Restaurant.com – Save 20% on all gift certificates. Explore new restaurants, save at old favorites, or enjoy quality takeout meals with Restaurant.com.

Find these savings as well as many other benefits by visiting the MSU Benefits Plus portal. Sign up or log in today and have a fun, family-filled Father’s Day!

purple flowers blooming in the foreground with Beaumont Tower in the distance.

Your Mental Health and Well-being Matter

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

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.
  • Health4U focuses on all aspects of health with resources, support groups, and educational courses.
    • The MSU 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!

Sources:

Agovino, T. (2024, May 3). Mental health, HR and the Workplace. Welcome to SHRM. https://www.shrm.org/topics-tools/news/all-things-work/mental-health–hr-and-the-workplace