Tag: MSU Benefits Plus

Job of The Week: Microsoft Office 365 Analyst

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

This week’s featured job is a Microsoft Office 365 Analyst for MSU Information Technology Services (job posting 1093383). If you are a collaborative, tech-savvy professional interested in maximizing the value of Microsoft 365 tools while driving digital transformation and exploring AI solutions, this may be the role for you.

MSU Information Technology provides the primary leadership for strategic, financial, and policy initiatives affecting IT across Michigan State University. MSU IT and department IT staff offer technology resources that support MSU’s mission of providing education, conducting research, and advancing engagement, supporting staff, faculty, students, alumni, and visitors alike at MSU.

As the Microsoft 365 Analyst, you will help the department transition from siloed to standardized, collaborative digital workflows. You will integrate Microsoft 365 tools, including Teams and SharePoint, into administrative processes, streamline organizational workflows through AI-powered automations, and spread knowledge of underused tools across campus. Additionally, you will enhance Power BI use across departments and collaborate with administrative units across campus. Find a complete list of job duties and responsibilities

This position requires a Bachelor’s degree and three to five years of related work experience with application development, Microsoft 365, and designing, scheduling, implementing, and testing complex applications. You should have strong experience with Office 365 development tools, two years of hands-on experience working with coding and AI tools, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to train and support end-users. 

To learn more about MSU IT, please visit the MSU Information Technology website. To learn more about or apply for this position, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a resume and cover letter, and should be submitted by December 2.

Job of The Week: Electrical Planner/Inspector/Analyst III

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This week’s featured job is an Electrical Planner/Inspector/Analyst III for MSU Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (job posting 1093729). If you are an experienced professional with a strong background in electrical systems, project management, and code compliance who is looking to play a crucial role in supporting MSU’s campus infrastructure, this may be the position for you. 

MSU Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) plans, builds, maintains, and beautifies MSU’s physical campus environment in support of its education, research, and outreach missions. The unit’s team of over 1,000 professionals keeps MSU running 24/7/365 by meeting the infrastructure needs and providing expert analysis to support long-term planning goals. Together, they ensure that MSU’s campus remains a safe and inspiring place to work, learn, and grow. 

This position plans, designs, directs, estimates, inspects, and analyzes the installation, construction, alteration, operation, and/or repair of very complex mechanical, structural, electrical, environmental, electronic, or computer-based systems in new or existing facilities and projects campus-wide. Other duties include:

  • Provide expert technical support for project services, maintenance services, management, and skilled trades staff.
  • Manage complex, multi-craft projects from planning and design through procurement, inspection, and closeout.
  • Ensure compliance with all applicable codes and standards.
  • Offer cost-effective design ideas and solutions to help departments meet budget and operational goals. 
  • Prepare detailed drawings, technical reports, cost studies, and assist in material procurement and emergency management.
  • Engage in high-performing, leading-edge practices that value people, partnerships, and stewardships. 

This position requires a degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, and five to eight years of progressively responsible experience in mechanical construction and construction project management. You should have strong communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills. Find a list of remaining requirements on the job listing.

Apply for this position on the MSU Careers website. Applications require a resume and should be submitted by December 2. 

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

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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 and log in with your MSU NetID and password.

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.
  • Baloo: Save 20% off eco-conscious products made for rest and renewal. Use code CORESTREAM.
  • 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% or more off MSRP on select appliances. Use code COREEXT21.
  • Great Wolf Lodge: Save up to 30% year-round. Use code CORESTREAM when booking.
  • Harry and David: 20% off your order. Use code CSTREAM.
  • HP: Up to 40% off computers and accessories.
  • PremiumSeatsUSA.com: Save 10% with promo code CORESTREAM.
  • Restaurants.com: 40% off orders of $25 or more. Use code CORESTREAM40.
  • 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.

Enroll in these voluntary benefits between October 1 and 31: Accident (new for 2026), Critical Illness, Legal, Vision. MSU Spartan Helmet.

Reminder: Enroll in, change, or cancel accident, critical illness, legal, and vision insurance during October 

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

The MSU Benefits Open Enrollment period is here! As you review your benefit options for the 2026 plan year, please note that some voluntary benefits only allow you to enroll in, change, or cancel coverage during Open Enrollment between October 1 and 31, including:  

  • Prudential accident insurance (NEW—Learn more below)  
  • MetLife critical illness insurance 
  • ARAG legal insurance 
  • VSP vision insurance 

If you want to enroll in, make changes (such as adding a dependent or switching to a different plan), or cancel your coverage for the 2026 plan year, you must do so by October 31. If you’re currently enrolled and do not make any changes, your enrollment will continue in 2026 with the exact same coverage.

Voluntary Benefits Overview 

Please review a brief description of accident, critical illness, legal, and vision insurance below. For additional information on all voluntary benefits—such as plan summary brochures—review the HR webpage about voluntary benefits. 

  • NEW for 2026: Prudential accident insurance pays a lump sum after you or a covered family member experiences a covered incident, such as a fracture or concussion. Use this money for anything you need while recovering, such as expenses not covered by your health care plan or lost income. Coverage is available with no evidence of insurability (EOI) requirement. 
  • MetLife critical illness insurance gives you extra money in the event you or covered family members experience a covered illness. This money can be used to offset unexpected medical expenses or for any other use you wish. Simplified plan options are offered through MetLife with no evidence of insurability (EOI) requirement. Additional coverage options for $40,000 and $50,000 will be available starting in 2026.
  • ARAG legal insurance makes it affordable to get the legal help you need, such as creating a will or fighting a traffic ticket. ARAG excludes most pre-existing legal issues and business-related matters, which are defined as any legal matter that is initiated before the effective date of coverage. Network attorney fees are 100% paid-in-full for most covered matters. Choose between two plan options. Plan enhancements will be available starting in 2026. 
  • VSP vision insurance offers two plan options for you and your family to save money on eye care and glasses. There is a standard coverage plan or a premium coverage plan with an additional enhanced eyewear option of your choice. 

How to Access Voluntary Benefits 

To access voluntary benefits through MSU Benefits Plus, log in to the EBS portal, select My Benefits from the top navigation, then click on the MSU Benefits Plus tile.  

Please note: If you’ve already registered, you’ll be prompted to create an account using single sign-on (SSO) the first time you log in on or after July 23, 2025. Review the information on the screen and click Create Account to begin.  Signing up for an account does not obligate you to enroll in any benefits; it just gives you access to learn about, review premiums, and enroll in the various programs. 

How to View Current Participation or Deduction History 

After you access the MSU Benefits Plus website (see instructions above), click on Benefits in the top navigation, then select Enrollments or Deductions from the dropdown menu to view your current participation or deduction history.  

The MSU Benefits Plus website only provides participation status on the voluntary benefits you have enrolled in within the MSU Benefits Plus website, such as accident, auto/home, critical illness, legal, pet, and vision insurance. 

Questions?  Learn about all voluntary benefits options on the HR website. If you have questions, consider participating in the MSU Benefits Fair or an HR Site Lab. MSU Human Resources is available for questions at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434 (toll-free: 800-353-4434).  

Arial view of campus in autumn, with Spartan Helment.

October Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

October Events Blog 

If you and your family are looking for activities this October,  you’ve come to the right place! Check out upcoming events to celebrate fall in the Greater Lansing area! Visit the links below to explore upcoming events and register if required. 

Campus Events

October 1-31– MSU Benefits Open Enrollment: Open Enrollment is your annual opportunity to review your coverage options and ensure you have the benefits that are best for you and your family as you head into the new year. Learn more on the HR Website and plan to visit the Benefits Fair on October 21 or one of the several Site Labs available throughout October.

October 1 – Artist Talk: Pao Houa Her: Think of a favorite picture of yours. What story does it tell? Join artist Pao Houa Her for a conversation on artistic practice and legacies of landscape, portraiture, and documentary photography.

October 2 – The Great Gatsby Ballet: Dance into the Roaring Twenties with this dazzling Broadway-style ballet presented by the World Ballet Company at the Wharton Center. Dress to impress, raise a glass, and immerse yourself in a night of elegance and dance. 

October 3 – MSU’s 2nd Annual Disability Summit Keynote Speaker: This year’s summit will be a half-day event featuring keynote speaker Haben Girma, a disability advocate and author. In-person attendance is full, but you can watch the keynote virtually by registering for the Disability Summit!

October 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31 – Disability Summit Virtual Sessions: Register for webinars by 8 a.m. on the day of the presentations.

October 4 – Fall Fest: Stop by the MSU Surplus Store and Recycling Center for pumpkin carving, thrifting, tours, upcycle crafts, music, and more!  

October 11 and 25 – MSU Home Football Games: Let’s cheer on the Spartans as they take the field at Spartan Stadium. Whether you’re in the stands, attending a tailgate, or watching the game nearby from a local sports bar. There are two home games in October. 

October 14 – Film Screening and Discussion: Join your fellow Spartans to watch “Change, Not Charity: The Americans with Disabilities Act,” a documentary that explores the history, impact, and ongoing significance of the ADA and the disability rights movement.

October 21 – MSU Benefits Fair: MSU benefit providers and MSU HR staff will be available to answer questions and help employees and retirees enroll in or change their benefits on-site at the Breslin Student Events Center. During the fair, Humana and Personify Health will be offering presentations about their health care plans for current and future (within the 2026 plan year) MSU retirees. 

October 22 – Beal Footprints Walking Tour Series: Join Beal Botanical Garden and Campus Arboretum for lunchtime guided tours beginning at the Beal Pond. October’s tour is Riverbank restoration and clean-up; Carolyn Miller, Arboretum & Invasive Species Coordinator. 

October 24-25 – Alex’s Great State Race: Mark your calendars! Alex’s Great State Race returns— uniting two rival universities, MSU and U-M, as ROTC cadets run 64 miles through the night, honoring the legacy of Alex Powell, while supporting individuals with disabilities, celebrating a Great Race and Greater Purpose.

October 26 – ArachnoBROADia: The MSU Broad Art Museum is hosting a spooky afternoon of eight-legged fun for all ages, inspired by artwork from the MSU Broad Art Museum’s collection! Get creative with creepy crafts at the museum, then visit your favorite crawly creatures at the MSU Bug House. All ages are welcome.

October 30 – Accessibility Work-a-thon: A walk-in event will take place in the Main Library Beaumont Instruction Room, where faculty and staff can work on improving the digital accessibility of their videos, documents, and other materials. Accessibility team members from OCR, IT, Ed Tech, and the Libraries will be available to assist, answer questions, and provide consultation.

Learning Opportunities

October 8 – TIAA Webinar: Quarterly Economic and Market Update: Hear from the experts in our Wealth Chief Investment Office about key drivers of the markets and economy that are impacting investors.

October 9 – Facilitated Dialogue on Cultural Competency: This participant-led course invites participants to engage in further discussion around topics related to cultural competency. While facilitators will share prepared prompts to start dialogue, participants are also welcome and encouraged to bring topics, questions, and ideas for dialogue. 

October 9 – Roadmap to Retirement: If you are an MSU faculty or staff member and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

October 15 – TIAA Webinar: Avoiding Cybersecurity Threats and Fraud: The frequency and format of scams are increasing. Learn how to protect your information and your financial future.

October 16 – Strengths-Based Leadership: Looking to maximize your strengths and become a stronger leader? Understand manager-specific strengths using the CliftonStrengths for Managers Report in this in-person course. 

October 17 – Broad Underground: Black Experimental Moving Image: How can Black experiences be represented in experimental film, video, and new media? Join Emily Martin, distribution manager at the Video Data Bank, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, for a curated screening and discussion. This event is in partnership with the MSU Department of African American and African Studies. 

October 23 – Bystander Intervention Training: This course is designed to provide participants with strategies to prevent and help in problematic behavior associated with workplace harassment or discrimination. 

October 30 – TIAA Webinar: Planning and Managing Healthcare Expenses: Healthcare costs can really add up in retirement. That’s why it pays to be prepared. In this webinar, we’ll help you separate myth from reality when it comes to managing costs for a healthy financial future.

Family-Friendly Events

October 4 – Family Day: The First Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum, and this October, you have the chance to connect through materials and ideas in celebration of Africa Past, Present, and Future. 

Select Dates in October – Fall Family Film Fest: Bring the whole family to NCG Cinemas this fall for all of your favorite fall movies! 

October 18 – Spooky Sprint: You and your whole family have the chance to run the annual Spooky Sprint this October! This fun Halloween-themed event offers great swag, free photos, delicious treats, and plenty of fun. There is also a kids’ dash option for those under 10, so everyone can participate. 

October 20 and 27 – Sensory Friendly Hour at Bath Township Library: On the third and fourth Mondays of each month, visit the Bath Township Library for sensory-friendly hours. Staff will dim the lights, provide sensory-friendly toys, fidgets, and noise-canceling headphones for those seeking a calming environment in which to explore books. 

October 31 – Trick or Treat: Join us on the last night of Jack O’ Lanterns Unleashed on Halloween night for a time of free trick or treating at the Ingham County Fairgrounds.

Greater Lansing Area Events

October 3 – The Best of The Best: Jazz From Detroit: Jazz from Detroit Documentary Film is a landmark double portrait of Detroit’s extraordinary jazz legacy and the dynamic city that produced it. Film starts at 6:30 p.m. with doors opening at 6:00 p.m.

October 4 – Horrocks Biergarten Oktoberfest:  Visit Horrocks Biergarten to celebrate this year’s Oktoberfest! There will be beverages, food, and the Katzenjammer German Band will also be performing. 

October 15 – Vintage Tuck Fall Bounty Paint Class: Visit Grand Ledge for a pre-traced canvas painting event with themed trivia, prizes, and more!

October 15 – Harvest Festival: Count on the Allen Farmers Market for fresh produce from mid-Michigan farms, the highest quality meat, artisan baked breads, gluten-free goods, eggs, and more at this year’s Harvest Festival at the Allen Neighborhood Center. 

October 17 – Howloween: Dog Trick-or-Treating: For over 25 years, Dog Trick-or-Treating at Preuss Pets has been the howl-o-ween event you don’t want to miss, and it’s back! The fun starts at Preuss Pets, where participants will receive a bag full of goodies!

October 18 – Old Town Fall Clean Up: Help keep Old Town looking its best! Join neighbors, volunteers, and friends as we come together to beautify the Old Town neighborhood before winter sets in. Tools will be provided, but feel free to bring your own gloves, rakes, or equipment that you find helpful. All ages are welcome to volunteer! 

Select Weekends in October – Boo at the Zoo: This Halloween season, see the Potter Park Zoo transform into a fall wonderland that will leave you and your family spellbound. Grab your treat bags and get ready to make memories that will last this fall. 

Farmers Markets

Beginning October 5 – The East Lansing Farmers Market: Visit Valley Court Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday in October for some shopping and fresh air at the East Lansing Farmers Market (ELFM). Here, you can purchase a variety of fresh goods, farm-grown in Michigan, including vegetables, fruits, bread, cheese, honey, flowers, and more. 

Beginning October 6 – Downtown Dewitt Farmers Market: Come to the Downtown Dewitt Farmers Market for an evening of exploring small businesses, home-grown foods, treats, and more! Every Tuesday in October, join from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for some shopping, food trucks, and fun in Downtown Dewitt.

Beginning October 2 – South Lansing Farmers Market: The South Lansing Farmers Market is open on Thursdays and located at the corner of Jolly and S. MLK in Lansing. Stop by for farm-fresh fruits and veggies, fresh-cut flowers, arts and crafts, natural body and household products, and a food court featuring Mexican, Chinese, Lebanese, and Southern Soul cuisine – a little something for everyone! 

Beginning October 2– Dimondale Farmers Market: The Dimondale Farmers Market will run every Thursday in the Village Square. The Market is celebrating their 18th season and hosts over 15 vendors providing locally produced products, including fruits, vegetables, chicken, fish, jams, honey, flowers, and more!

All programs and activities are open to all without restriction or preference based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, national origin, or other protected identity.

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Save Money on Common Household Expenses with an FSA 

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

As you review your benefit options for the coming year during Open Enrollment (October 1 to 31), consider whether a flexible spending account (FSA) makes sense for your family. We all spend money on medical expenses such as prescription and office visit copays, dental work, and over-the-counter items like bandages. And many families spend thousands of dollars each year on child or adult care. 

If you are looking for ways to save money on caregiving costs and/or medical care expenses, enrolling in an FSA is a sound strategy. An FSA allows you to use pre-tax dollars to pay for eligible expenses, such as child care or health care costs like copays. In fact, using FSA funds for these types of expenses can save you an average of 30%!1  

MSU offers benefits-eligible employees the option to enroll in two types of FSAs: Dependent Care FSA and/or Health Care FSA. You can enroll in one or both FSA plan types. You will manage your FSA directly with MSU’s plan provider, HealthEquity.  

Should I enroll in both FSA types?  

Good question! The answer depends on what you and your family need. Make sure you know the eligible expenses each FSA plan allows you to use your pre-tax money on before you enroll in one or both plans.  

Dependent Care FSA Eligible Expense Examples:  

  • Child or adult care  
  • Virtual or in-person camps  
  • Before or after-school programs  
  • Nursery school  

Health Care FSA Eligible Expense Examples:  

  • Medical or dental deductibles and copays  
  • Pain medication  
  • Menstrual care products  
  • Bandages  
  • Hearing aids  
  • Allergy medications  
  • Orthodontics  

Before You Enroll 

When you enroll, you’ll decide how much money you’d like to contribute to the FSA. This money will be deducted from your paycheck (pre-tax) and divided over each pay period throughout the plan year.  

Here are the contribution limits for the 2026 plan year: 

  • Dependent Care FSA: A household may contribute up to $7,500. If you and your spouse/other eligible individual (OEI) both have a Dependent Care FSA, combined household contributions cannot exceed $7,500 at MSU or another employer. 
  • Health Care FSA: An individual may contribute up to $3,300. If both you and your spouse/OEI have a Health Care FSA, you each may contribute up to $3,300. 

Before you enroll, make sure you take some time to understand each plan and estimate how much you are likely to spend on eligible expenses throughout the plan year. We encourage you to plan conservatively; Due to IRS requirements, any unused funds left in your account at the end of the plan year will be forfeited. Learn more about FSAs – including fund availability, reimbursement options, grace period deadlines, and eligible expenses – on the HR FSA webpage.  

Please Note: Due to IRS regulations, you are unable to participate or have a balance in a Health Care FSA if you enroll in the Health Savings Account offered with the Consumer Driven Health Plan. 

How to Enroll  

Please review these two FSA plan options and enroll – or re-enroll – in an FSA during the Open Enrollment period in October. If you’re currently enrolled in an FSA for the 2025 plan year, you must re-enroll if you’d like to continue participating in an FSA for the 2026 plan year. Find instructions for how to enroll in an FSA as part of Open Enrollment here.   

Questions? HR staff will be available at the MSU Benefits Fair and the HR Site Labs throughout October. You may also visit the HealthEquity website or call HealthEquity at 877-924-3967. MSU Human Resources is available at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434 (toll-free: 800-353-4434). 

1Example for illustration only. Actual savings vary. The figure is based on average tax rates, including state, federal and FICA taxes. Source: (n.d.). Open Enrollment Center. HealthEquity. Retrieved September 8, 2025, from https://www.healthequity.com/learn. 

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Online Tools and Resources to Support Your Career Development and Wellbeing

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In honor of Online Learning Day on September 15, we’d like to share the tools and resources available to support the career development and wellbeing of staff and faculty at MSU. The following resources and departments offer virtual learning opportunities, allowing you to learn new skills at a time, place, or pace convenient to you. Your continued dedication to lifelong learning will help MSU achieve its strategic priorities and create “a best-in-class workplace culture and a welcoming environment in which excellence and opportunity thrive.”

Online Learning Opportunities

HR’s Organization and Professional Development (OPD): Find a variety of instructor-led classes on communication, customer service, leadership, personal development, and much more! Many OPD courses are offered in a virtual format and led by our friendly and knowledgeable OPD instructors.

elevateU Online Training Platform: Are you curious about artificial intelligence? Would you like to improve your project management skills or become a more effective communicator? Whether you learn best by reading books, watching videos, engaging with interactive exercises, or participating in a live virtual learning environment, the topics available are extensive. Even if you only have a few minutes to spare, we can’t recommend this free resource highly enough as a convenient way to support your growth and development.

SpartansLearn: The MSU community’s go-to resource for technology training! Want to learn how to remove duplicates in Excel, coordinate a meeting time in Outlook for multiple participants, or make your PowerPoint presentations stand out? MSU IT offers microlearning videos, recorded courses, and more to help you learn at your own pace, along with instructor-led virtual classes.  

MSU University Health and Wellbeing: Find services, programs, and initiatives designed to support your professional success, health, and wellbeing. Be sure to check out their virtual events and webinars, such as Desk Decompress, Mindfulness and Meditation, and Spartan Resilience programs.

Office of Faculty and Academic Staff Development (OFASD): OFASD works with all faculty, academic staff, and academic administrators as they join the university, establish professional trajectories, and grow in their careers at MSU. Find information and resources for orientations, leadership development, teaching and learning events, and more.

While many of the above resources are free for the Spartan community, as a reminder, educational assistance funds are available to help cover any course fees. Did we miss any resources? Let us know in the comments below, and Happy Online Learning Day!

Autumn Leaves

September Events Round-Up

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

If you and your family are looking for activities in September,  you’ve come to the right place! Check out upcoming events to celebrate the start of fall! Visit the links below to explore upcoming events and register if required. 

Campus Events

September 3, 10 and 17 – Move in the Garden:  Need a midday recharge? Stop by under the gingko tree at the Beal Botanical Garden with a yoga mat or towel, and refresh your body and mind through this stretching and strengthening class. This free session is designed for all ability levels. 

September 7 – Curator Tour: Unbecoming: Join Assistant Curator Dr. Rachel Winter at the MSU Broad Art Museum to learn more about what an artist’s process teaches us about transformation in our personal lives. 

Opening September 14 – Mekong Voices: Transnational River Justice in Mainland Southeast Asia: Open until February at the MSU Broad Art Museum, the Mekong Voices exhibit displays the Mekong River, which is revered as the “Mother River” across Mainland Southeast Asia. Mekong Voices celebrates the necessary and innovative work of traditional craft and art in translating the river’s voices, both human and more-than-human, across national and linguistic boundaries.

September 16-21 – A Beautiful Noise: The Neil Diamond Musical: Coming to the Wharton Center, A Beautiful Noise is the uplifting true story of the life of Neil Diamond shining on Broadway. 

September 28 – Shape Shift: The Art of Coming Undone: This three-part studio series at the MSU Broad Art Museum invites you to explore transformation through art. No previous art experience required – just a willingness to explore, reflect, and reimagine! 

Learning Opportunities

September 2 and 9 – Desk Decompress: This virtual 15-minute class offers the perfect mid-day reset. Stretch and strengthen your wrists, neck, spine, and shoulders, all from the comfort of your own desk. 

September 9, 10, and 11 – Getting Things Done: This course teaches skills to manage the constant flow of requests, tasks, and interruptions that face employees at all levels of an organization. Learn how to organize incoming requests, manage stress in the workplace, prevent missed deadlines, and enhance your personal development at work. 

September 10 – Promapp, Interactive Process Creation: Continue your process improvement journey and build upon the knowledge and skills learned in Introduction to Process Mapping. 

September 10 – Hunger Free and Basic Needs: MSU Meets the Food and Nutrition Needs of Students and Staff:  Join MSU Nutrition Services and MSU Food Bank and Basic Needs Program staff to explore the resources available to support food and nutrition needs on campus. Learn how you can access help and help others. Register for Hunger Free and Basic Needs via Learning Stream.  

September 10 – Women Talk Money: How to balance saving and tackling debt: Join this webinar with MSU retirement vendor, Fidelity, for a step-by-step guide that will help you learn how to organize your financial priorities. 

September 10 – Fidelity Front Row 2025: Join Fidelity to listen to the Active Trader Pro beta team, a live Q&A, a special giveaway, and timely insights. 

September 11 – Tips for working with a financial professional: Having a financial professional supporting you on every step of your journey is key to creating a secure financial future. In this webinar, learn about how a financial professional can help you and how to find a financial professional and prepare for your first meeting.

September 17 – Women Talk Money: What you should know about investing: Investing may help you reach your short- and long-term goals, but sometimes it’s hard to know where to start, what questions to ask, or what step to take next. Join Fidelity to learn more about different investment options and management styles that can help you decide how to keep your goals on track.

September 17 – Maximize Your Concur and Travel Skills: Recommended for new employees, learn how to understand the Concur system, create a travel request, book travel, reconcile travel expenses, and more. 

September 18 – The Power of Habit: Learn how habits are created and how to replace undesirable habits with productive ones. You will learn how to spot your habit loop, turn bad days into good data, and create habits that get the results you want.

September 25 – How to get the most from your employee retirement plan: Your workplace retirement plan is one of your most important employee benefits. In this webinar we’ll show you how to take advantage of all your plan has to offer so you can save and invest with confidence and get the most from your money.     

Family-Friendly Events

September 12-14 – 2025 MSU Family Weekend: Visit Michigan State University’s campus this weekend in September to enjoy a football game, visit your Spartans and the beautiful campus, and explore the Greater Lansing area! Check out the Choose Lansing website for help with lodging, tickets for the game, and parking information. 

September 11 – Chipmunk Story Time: Storytime comes alive at the Harris Nature Center Chipmunk Story Time event. Meet Chicory Chipmunk and his animal friends. 

Recurring Fridays and Saturdays – Toddler Time at Launch Lansing: Visit Launch Lansing Trampoline Park during select times to enjoy children’s music, visits from Joey the kangaroo, and a special toddler section with your little ones. 

September 20 and 21 – Capital City River Run: This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the Capital City River Run, a two-day event that includes a half-marathon, 5k walk/run, and the Sohn Kid’s Race. All proceeds will support the Impression 5 Science Center and its mission to provide families with hands-on science exhibits and learning opportunities. 

Greater Lansing Area Events 

Wednesdays in September – Meridian Township Summer Concert Series: Savor the last bit of summer weather and visit Marketplace on the Green for the Meridian Township Summer Concert Series! Visit the website to see who is playing and when, every Wednesday in September.

September 17-20 – 2025 Michigan BluesFest: Michigan BluesFest is an annual event held in Old Town Lansing, bringing people of all ages together through the shared love of Blues Music. 

September 19-21 – Lansing LIT:  Join the city of Lansing for the second annual Lansing LIT book festival! Explore local bookstores, author events, a bookstore crawl, and more at Michigan’s capital city. 

Farmers Markets

Beginning September 7 – The East Lansing Farmers Market: Visit Valley Court Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday in September for some shopping and fresh air at the East Lansing Farmers Market (ELFM). Here, you can purchase a variety of fresh goods, farm-grown in Michigan, including vegetables, fruits, bread, cheese, honey, flowers, and more. 

Beginning September 2 – Downtown Dewitt Farmers Market: Come to the Downtown Dewitt Farmers Market for an evening of exploring small businesses, home-grown foods, treats, and more! Every Tuesday in September, join from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. for some shopping, food trucks, and fun in Downtown Dewitt on a warm summer night. 

Beginning September 4 – South Lansing Farmers Market: The South Lansing Farmers Market is open on Thursdays and located at the corner of Jolly and S. MLK in Lansing. Stop by for farm fresh fruits and veggies, fresh cut flowers, arts and crafts, natural body and household products, and a food court featuring Mexican, Chinese, Lebanese, and Southern Soul food – a little something for everyone! 

Beginning September 4 – Dimondale Farmers Market: The Dimondale Farmers Market will run every Thursday in September in the Village Square. The Market is celebrating their 18th season and hosts over 15 vendors providing locally produced products, including fruits, vegetables, chicken, fish, jams, honey, flowers, and more!

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New Academic Year, New Professional Development Opportunities

Published on by Abigail MillerLeave a comment

Fall is almost here, and HR’s Organization and Professional Development (OPD) team has spots open in the following courses to support your learning and development. Class enrollment is completed within the EBS Portal, and employees may use available educational assistance funds towards course fees (if any).

Personal Development

Bystander Intervention Training | August 28 | In-Person  
Learn strategies to prevent and interrupt problematic behavior associated with workplace harassment or discrimination. 

Getting Things Done | September 9, 10, and 11 | Virtual 
By learning how to capture, clarify, and organize incoming requests, participants are more likely to make strategic decisions about where to invest their time and energy in ways that improve results and decrease missed deadlines, mistakes, and stress. 

The Power of Habit | September 18 | Virtual
Discover how habits are created and how to replace undesirable habits with productive ones.

Breaking Free from Stress | October 1, 8, 15, and 22 | In-Person 
Learn how to be less reactive to people and events in your life and form a deeper perspective of common sense and wisdom.

Roadmap To Retirement| October 9 | In-Person 
If you are an MSU faculty or staff member and you have decided to retire within a year or two, this half-day workshop covers a range of topics critical to your successful retirement.

Everything DiSC: Productive Conflict | December 18 | In-Person
Learn techniques to improve self-awareness and handle conflict. You will take an assessment to better understand your personal responses to conflict. Pre-work must be completed before taking this course.

Leadership

Crucial Influence | October 7, 8, and 9 | Virtual
Targeting mid to high-level leaders responsible for leading change and improving efforts in the workplace, learn about the Crucial Influence Model, which explains why people do what they do and how you can influence results.

Strengths Based Leadership | October 16 | In-Person   
Understand manager-specific strengths using the newly released CliftonStrengths for Managers Report. Your top strengths — the things you naturally do best — can help you manage more effectively, meet your goals, and improve your team’s success.

Resilient Leadership Series | November 3 and 4 | In-person
Explore with other campus leaders some essential resilience skills required for effective leadership for the common good, including: emotional intelligence, emotional resilience, psychological flexibility, mindfulness, effective stress mitigation practices, and practices of compassionate accountability for self and others. 

Operational

Introduction to Process Mapping | Various Dates | In-Person  
Learn how to define key processes improvement terminology, reduce barriers to success, and create a process map.

Promapp Interactive Process Creation | Various Dates | In-Person  
Learners will continue their process improvement journey and build upon the knowledge and skills learned in Introduction to Process Mapping.

You can find all current Organization and Professional Development courses on the HR website.

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Educational Assistance: Fall Reminders 

Published on by MSU Human ResourcesLeave a comment

 The Educational Assistance, or “Ed Assist,” support staff benefit resets with the start of the fall semester. Now is the 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, such as professional development courses offered through HR’s Organization and Professional Development, 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.