This week, we are featuring a job posting as the Anatomy Resources Manager for the College of Osteopathic Medicine (job posting 1041146). If you are interested in being a key resource for the Division of Human Anatomy and medical education programs across four campuses and overseeing the Willed Body Program (WBP), this may be the position for you.
The MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine’s mission is to provide world-class osteopathic, student-centered graduate and medical education and research to foster community across patient-centered medical care. MSU’s Willed Body Program (WBP) allows hundreds of medical students at MSU to continue their studies in anatomy through generous donations of one’s body for educational assistance.
In this role, you will primarily supervise and direct the operation of the Human Gross Anatomy Lab and oversee the donations from the WBP. You will work closely with families, agencies, and medical staff to facilitate body donations, prepare cremation forms, maintain the collection and shipment of cremations, and maintain confidential records. Additionally, you will plan and oversee the annual WBP Memorial Service, schedule the Gross Anatomy Lab procedures, order supplies and equipment, and work with the administrative team, faculty director, and department administrators to develop policies and procedures to maintain lab usage. Find a complete list of job responsibilities on the MSU Careers website.
This position requires a degree in Social Work, Psychology, Nursing, or Social Science, and three to five years of work experience related to business or public contact. Experience working in a medical school and with medical records, experience with Microsoft Excel and data development and maintenance, strong communication skills, and strong interpersonal skills are desired.
The Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award honors MSU support staff members annually. Colleagues submit nominations of individuals who demonstrate the qualities of Jack Breslin, who served MSU as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator, and steadfast advocate, personifying the “Spartan Spirit.”
Congratulations to this year’s recipients1: Melanie McNutt, Bob Rasico Jr., Sarah Reimer, Rebecca Shannon-Kortes, and Jessica Wright! These recipients display excellence in their job performance, a supportive attitude, and significant contributions to MSU. On April 14, they were honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center along with the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” and Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition award recipients.
Watch a recording of the event below or on YouTube.
Melanie McNutt
Melanie McNutt, a 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award winner, is introduced by Jeff Magnuson, Award Selection Committee Member.
Melanie McNutt speaking during the ceremony.
(left to right) Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Melanie McNutt, 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, Ray Gasser, Award Selection Committee Chairperson, and Jeff Magnuson, Award Selection Committee Member.
Melanie McNutt is a Training Program Developer for Digital Strategies and Services, which is a part of MSU IT that supports Student Life and Engagement, and has worked at MSU for 30 years. She serves on the leadership team that defines strategic priorities, key initiatives, and the long-term vision of technology support for the more than 6,500 employees of Student Life and Engagement. Melanie is known for her remarkable ability to build strong, positive working relationships with people at all levels of the organization and prioritizes getting to know new team members and making them feel welcome. Melanie’s colleagues had this to say about her:
“Melanie drives both efficiency and effectiveness across the division in many ways. A huge example of this is her commitment to completely equipping herself with the knowledge she needs to complete a task. She practices, rewrites, researches and anything else she needs to do to tackle a project quickly, efficiently and accurately.”
“Her colleagues appreciate her warmth, kindness, and unwavering support. Whether interacting with team members, leadership, or students, Melanie consistently fosters an environment of trust and collaboration. She shows genuine interest in people and their well-being.”
“She is a passionate advocate for integrating DEI principles into our communication and training resources, ensuring that our materials are inclusive, accessible, and reflective of the diverse community we serve.”
Watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Melanie:
Bob Rasico Jr.
Bob Rasico Jr., a 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award winner, speaking during the awards ceremony.
Sherri Reese (left), Award Selection Committee Member, introduces Bob Rasico Jr.
(left to right) Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Ray Gasser, Award Selection Committee Chairperson, Sherri Reese, Award Selection Committee Member, Bob Rasico Jr., 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, and Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources.
Bob Rasico Jr. is an Engineer and Architect for the Department of Chemistry and has worked at MSU for 37 years. Described by his colleagues as “the busiest person in the building,” his many responsibilities include designing, analyzing, and altering plans, prototypes, and structures to ensure the 280,000 square foot chemistry building is operating safely, efficiently, and reliably. Bob’s exceptional knowledge of the chemistry building’s operations is only matched by his dedication to ensuring a safe and functioning environment for its research and teaching facilities. Here is what his colleagues had to say:
“I do not know another person who connects as well professionally and personally as Bob does with others, even when pressured for quick and seemingly impossible solutions.”
“While his knowledge and skill of every facility and trade applicable to the building are staggering, it is his professionalism and genuine kindness that sets him apart.”
“Bob makes individuals feel heard, feel valued, and feel like their efforts are important to all of MSU Chemistry … A chance to talk with Bob allows faculty candidates to envision how their new laboratory might look and function… and see in Bob a collaborator who seeks the best for the prospective faculty member, their career, and their students. The enormous success we’ve had in faculty recruiting in MSU Chemistry … speaks to the trust that Bob engenders in faculty looking at our department from the outside.”
Watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Bob:
Sarah Reimer
Sarah Reimer (left), a 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award winner, is introduced by Sherri Reese, Award Selection Committee Member, during the ceremony.
Sarah Reimer speaking during the awards ceremony.
(left to right) Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President of Human Resources, Sherri Reese, Award Selection Committee Member, Sarah Reimer, 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, and Ray Gasser, Award Selection Committee Chairperson.
Sarah Reimer is the Office Manager of the W.K. Kellogg Biological Station Administrative Office and has worked at MSU for 10 ½ years. She wears many hats, including Fiscal Officer, HR Manager, Grants Administration for KBS faculty, and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Staff Advisory Committee Treasurer. Despite a hefty workload, her colleagues describe her as enthusiastic and supportive in helping with all types of tasks. Here is what her colleagues had to say:
“In her dynamic role at KBS she is eventually part of all projects, and this is another area where her grasp of the big picture down to the details is a tremendous value to KBS. Sarah possesses the two most important qualities in a team player: capability and a willingness to do whatever is needed.”
“I think of Sarah as a bicycle wheel’s hub to which all the spokes are connected. This is vividly apparent in our unit… that is located … so distant from MSU’s main campus. Because we are so contained in this space, we are a close community… [and] our community relies deeply on one person, Sarah.”
“She has become a central figure in many areas and her knowledge and recommendations are valued. Sarah’s willingness to take on whatever task needs to be handled, as well as finding the training and partners to learn new things, continues to serve her and KBS well.”
Watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Sarah:
Rebecca Shannon-Kortes
Rebecca Shannon-Kortes, a 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, is introduced by Dave Osland, Award Selection Committee Member.
Rebecca Shannon-Kortes speaking during the awards ceremony.
(left to right) Ray Gasser, Award Selection Committee Chairperson, Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Dave Osland, Award Selection Committee Member, Rebecca Shannon-Kortes, 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, and Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources.
Rebecca Shannon-Kortes is a Data Resource Analyst for the Office of Health Sciences and has worked at MSU for 7 years. Among her many responsibilities, she is a key driver behind initiatives that support the Sustainable Health, Faculty and Staff Success, and DEI objectives within the MSU 2030 Strategic Plan. She is highly respected among her colleagues, who describe her as meticulous, innovative, welcoming, and invaluable. Due to her insight and problem-solving skills, a frequently heard phrase within the office is, “Let’s add Rebecca to this team.” Here is what her colleagues had to say:
“Rebecca exhibits a very professional method to her work and proficiency in her contributions while maintaining an approach that makes others feel valued, included, respected, and a contributor to the collective effort.”
“Six years ago, when Rebecca first joined the newly established Office of Health Sciences, we could not have anticipated the tremendous impact she would have. She consistently exceeds expectations and has become an essential driving force within our team.”
“Rebecca consistently offers to assist other colleagues or take on new assignments when we discuss new challenges… Often with limited direction, she always delivers a high-quality product and turns it around quickly and always by the deadline.”
Watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Rebecca:
Jessica Wright
Jessica Wright, a 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner, is introduced by John Garcia, Award Selection Committee Member.
Jessica Wright speaking during the ceremony.
(left to right) Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Ray Gasser, Award Selection Committee Chairperson, John Garcia, Award Selection Committee Member, and Jessica Wright, 2025 Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award Winner.
Jessica Wright is the Consortium Coordinator for the Department of Horticulture and has worked at MSU for 21 years. She develops, plans, coordinates, and manages the 4-H Children’s Garden Educational Programs and serves as liaison between MSU and schools, the public, students, donors, and foundation partners. To describe Jessica as beloved by her colleagues, volunteers, teachers, and students would be an understatement. According to them, she is energetic, creative, effective, personable, and “one-of-a-kind.” Here is what her colleagues had to say:
“From the first time planting a plant, to exploring questions they have about the world, Jessica has enriched the lives of these students, and me. Without Jessica, I would be a lesser teacher and lesser person, and she deserves immense recognition and credit for all she does for the MSU community and beyond.”
“She always shows her enthusiasm, love of children, plant knowledge, and high standards. Jessica makes volunteering a valuable experience. I volunteer at the garden because of Jessica.”
“Over the years, the number of individuals inspired by Jessica’s knowledge and experience would easily fill both Spartan Stadium and the Breslin Center!”
Watch the video below or on YouTube for a more personal look at Jessica:
All photo credit: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto
All video credit: Cheeney Media Concepts
1. This list includes 2025 Jack Breslin Award recipients who agreed to appear in this article.
Congratulations to Tammi Harmon, this year’s recipient of the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award! This award honors a support staff employee who goes “above and beyond” in their job at MSU while pursuing a graduate degree concurrent with their employment.
Tammi is the Executive Staff Assistant for Student Services and has worked at MSU for almost 8 years. She is pursuing a master’s in Higher Adult and Lifelong Education from Michigan State University.
You can watch the moment Tammi discovered she was this year’s award winner below or on YouTube.
Tammi’s leaders and colleagues have this to say about her:
“I believe Tammi epitomizes the values of the Michigan State University community and would be an excellent recipient of this honor. I highly recommend her for this award without any hesitation.”
“Tammi is officially listed on paper as an ‘Executive Staff Assistant’ but treats every single person as the executive staff member being supported through efforts and endeavors, whether it is the Dean of Students or a student trying to find another office on campus or locate a blue book while frantically rushing to an exam.”
“Above and beyond only begins to describe the work Tammi did and continues to advance for this ever-evolving office. As a former elementary school teacher, Tammi has been able to adapt her skills in working with college students by employing the same focus on care for the individual, addressing their needs, treating each student with the highest respect, and helping students refine their educational goals and make plans to achieve them.”
The Awards Ceremony
(left to right) Ray Gassar, Award Selection Committee Chairman, Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President of Human Resources, Tammi Harmon, 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award Winner, Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration.
Tammi Harmon (left) is welcomed on stage by Ray Gassar, Award Selection Committee Chairman.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award winner, speaking during the ceremony.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award winner, speaking during the ceremony.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award winner, photographed with family, friends, and colleagues.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award winner, photographed with family, friends, and colleagues.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson Award winner, photographed with family, friends, and colleagues.
Tammi Harmon, the 2025 Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award winner.
On April 14, Tammi was honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center for the Ruth Jameyson, Jack Breslin, and Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award recipients. Executive Vice President for Administration, Vennie Gore, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Donna Donovan, and Award Selection Committee Chairman, Ray Gasser, acknowledged Tammi’s hard work and expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. A recording of the event is available below or on YouTube.
About the Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” Award
The annual Ruth Jameyson “Above and Beyond” 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 to support the mission of MSU. In recognition of Ms. Jameyson’s 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.
Ms. Ruth Jameyson, who died in 2007 at the age of 100 years, served as the secretary to MSU President Robert S. Shaw from 1938 to 1941 and secretary/administrative assistant to President John A. Hannah from 1941 to 1969. She served as both greeter and gatekeeper to the numerous students, faculty, and staff seeking to meet Dr. Hannah, as well as dignitaries from around the globe. Ms. Jameyson accepted roles and responsibilities far beyond her formal job description. Having arrived in Lansing with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Coe College, Iowa, Ms. Jameyson pursued a master’s in economics at MSU while working full-time.
This award has been created and funded by friends of Ruth Jameyson: Barbara Sawyer-Koch, MSU trustee emerita, and Donald F. Koch, MSU professor emeritus.
All photo credits: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto All video credit: Cheeney Media Concepts
Congratulations to this year’s recipient of the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award, Patty Gregory!
MSU Human Resources proudly named Patty Gregory the 2025 MSU Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition Award winner. Patty is the Office Coordinator for Pharmacology and Toxicology and has been with MSU for 36 years. Patty is a terrific example of the kind of MSU employee this fund was established to recognize.
A video sharing the moment Patty discovered she was this year’s award recipient is available below or on YouTube:
Here is just some of what her leaders and colleagues had to say:
“Patty is incredibly ‘on top of things’ and ensures that all events and administrative tasks run smoothly. She shows up to the events herself—even if not required of her. For this reason, she is endeared to students, faculty, and staff alike. I know that whenever I had a question, Patty is the first person I go to. She is knowledgeable, understanding, and solutions-oriented.”
“Having worked closely with Patricia for 10 years, I have witnessed firsthand her exceptional contributions, work ethic, and commitment to both her role in our department and the university’s overall mission. Patricia exemplifies the core values of MSU through her diligence, attention to detail, and unwavering professionalism. She consistently goes above and beyond in her role as Office Coordinator, not only meeting but exceeding expectations in all aspects of her work.”
“Patty always seeks to improve office efficiency and support the overall function of our department. Her impact is especially evident in her interactions with students, faculty, and staff. Known for her warmth and professionalism, she goes above and beyond to create a welcoming environment for everyone who enters our office. Many of us in the department rely on her knowledge and judgment, and her positive influence enhances our team’s cohesion and morale.”
As you can see, Patty is a valuable asset to the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and an integral part of the MSU community.
The Awards Ceremony
(left to right) Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Patty Gregory, Clerical-Technical Award Winner, Deb Bitner, Clerical-Technical Union President.
Donna Donovan (left), Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, and Deb Bitner, Clerical-Technical Union President, introduce the 2025 Clerical-Technical Award winner, Patty Gregory.
Patty Gregory, the 2025 Clerical-Technical Award winner, speaking during the awards ceremony.
Patty Gregory, the 2025 Clerical-Technical Award winner, speaking during the awards ceremony.
Patty Gregory (center) surrounded by colleagues, friends, and family.
Patty Gregory, the 2025 Clerical-Technical Award Winner.
On April 14, Patty was honored at an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center for the Ruth Jameyson, Jack Breslin, and Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Award recipients. Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Donna Donovan, and Clerical-Technical Union President, Deb Bitner, acknowledged Patty’s hard work and expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. A recording of the whole event is available below or on YouTube.
We’d also like to thank the selection committee members for this award: Margie Aimery, Brandon Baswell, Deb Bitner, Todd Bradley, Melissa Del Rio, and Jenn Roberts. We greatly appreciate your time and effort!
About the Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition Award
The annual Gliozzo Clerical-Technical Recognition Award is made possible by Dr. Charles and Marjorie Gliozzo, who established a fund in honor of Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo in 2001. Thomas Gliozzo is director emeritus of MSU’s Study Abroad program. Thomas and Concettina Gliozzo were immigrants who became U.S. citizens and recognized the importance of education.
This fund was established to recognize outstanding Clerical-Technical (CT) employees at MSU. Dr. Gliozzo states, “CTs are the backbone and the infrastructure of the university, and they deserve recognition.” The recipient is selected from nominations received by the CT Recognition Award Selection Committee. Selection criteria include respect and concern for all members of the campus community, diligence in daily work, significant contributions to the community or public service, and innovative thinking.
This year, the MSU Service Milestone and Retirement Recognition Program recognized support staff employees celebrating a 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, or 55th work anniversary in 2024-25 or a retirement in 2024. Review the 2025 Reception Program and see if you recognize any names on the list—be sure to reach out and congratulate them!
On April 14, we celebrated over 1,000 employees observing long-term work anniversaries and retirements during an awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center. Our university’s development and growth have been, in large part, due to the contributions made by our staff members, particularly those who have chosen to remain in the service of the university. This occasion was dedicated to those who have served the university through the years of its greatest development. It is a tribute to those who have found satisfaction in helping others and creating an impact for a better world.
Vennie Gore, Executive Vice President for Administration, addresses the honorees during the opening remarks.
Donna Donovan, Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, addresses the honorees during the opening remarks.
Special thanks to Todd Bradley, Senior Human Resources Professional, for emceeing the event.
Service milestone and retirement honorees and their guests enjoy the reception at the Kellogg Center.
Some honorees are asked to stand during the ceremony to acknowledge their years of service to the university.
Sparty high fives milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the reception.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Milestone honorees during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Donna Donovan (left), Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources with Thomas Jeitschko, Interim Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests with Sparty.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Milestone honorees during the event at the Kellogg Center.
A milestone honoree with Sparty.
A milestone honoree with Sparty.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
A milestone honoree with Sparty.
Milestone honorees, colleagues, friends, and guests during the event at the Kellogg Center.
Executive Vice President for Administration, Vennie Gore, and Interim Associate Vice President for Human Resources, Donna Donovan, acknowledged service milestone and retirement honorees and expressed their gratitude during the ceremony. We’d like to extend a special thanks to Todd Bradley, Senior Human Resources Professional, for emceeing the event.
You can watch the opening remarks from the event below or on YouTube.
The university thanks these honorees for their talent, passion, loyalty, and contribution to our shared purpose. If you see a colleague’s name in this year’s awards program, don’t forget to congratulate them!
All photo credit: Dane Robison/TimeFramePhoto All video credit: Cheeney Media Concepts
Leaves are budding, flowers are blooming, and the winter mess you’ve been putting off cleaning needs to go! Lucky for you, Spartan employees can receive exclusive discounts through MSU Benefits Plus to help you declutter and freshen up your space.
Truly Free
Get up to 70% off Truly Free products by using the code SAFERHOME30. Truly Free’s non-toxic and family-safe cleaning products utilize refillable and reusable packaging, which empowers families to protect themselves from harm and reduce their environmental footprint.
Angi
Enjoy exclusive access to Angi’s pre-priced home services. Use the promo code CORESTREAM to get 12% off your first booking for all pre-priced services, including home, yard, and gutter cleaning, handyperson services, appliance repair, and more.
Handy
Get your first 3-hour home cleaning for $39 by signing up and using code CSPOT39. Handy is the leading platform for connecting individuals looking for household services with top-quality, pre-screened independent service professionals.
1-800-GOT-JUNK?
Clear out clutter and save $40 with code CS40.1-800-GOT-JUNK? is America’s most trusted name in junk removal. From a couple of items to a full home clear out, 1-800-GOT-JUNK? teams are standing by to make your junk disappear.
Showroom Shine
Show your MSU ID to receive your 20% off any Showroom Shine service at their car wash and detail center. With Showroom Shine located across from MSU, you can get your car detailed while at work or washed afterward.
Check out MSU Benefits Plus for even more exclusive MSU employee discounts on gifts, travel, entertainment, and everything in between. For questions, please get in touch with the MSU Benefits Plus customer care team at 888-758-7575.
This week, we are featuring a job posting as the Assistant Director of Annual Giving-Telemarketing with the MSU Alumni Office of University Advancement (job posting 1038890). If you are interested in supervising student staff and managers of a student-run telemarketing program, Greenline, and increasing alumni engagement, this may be the role for you.
University Advancement looks to the future with optimism and a growth mindset, and its mission is to advance the Spartan impact. MSU Greenline, one of the largest programs in the Big Ten, is a student-run program that aims to reach 10,000 to 15,000 alumni and friends each shift, resulting in personal contact with over 175,000 alumni each year! In 2024, MSU Greenline secured more than $500,000 from over 6,000 pledges.
In this position, you will primarily oversee student employees and managers at MSU Greenline and ensure the call center software (VanillaSoft) is working effectively and efficiently. You will develop and maintain comprehensive training, pledge processing procedures, and procedures to handle concerns and questions over the phone. You will also serve as the primary liaison for telemarketing issues regarding vendors, systems, and inquiries from other institutions. Additionally, you will create and monitor student work schedules, meet regularly with student managers, oversee hiring a diverse range of students, and update scripts, acknowledgement letters, and information for student callers. Find a complete list of job responsibilities on the MSU Careers website.
This position requires a degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or Business, and one to three years of related work in professional fundraising, public relations, marketing, higher education fundraising, or similar. The ability to foster a good working environment, recognize the importance of teamwork, and have excellent written and verbal communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills is desired.
Learn more about University Advancement and MSU Greenline. To learn more or apply, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a cover letter and resume, and should be submitted by June 3.
MSU is committed to supporting employees by providing benefits, programs, and a workplace culture that prioritizes mental health and employee wellbeing. 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 ensure you know the resources available to support you and your family’s well-being and mental health. Check out these resources to help you prioritize and invest in your care and well-being.
Trained Mental Health Professional Benefit Resources:
MSU faculty, staff, retirees, graduate and student employees, and their benefits-eligible dependents have access to the Employee Assistance Program, which provides confidential counseling at no cost. MSU offers Zoom and in-person appointments to best fit your work schedule. Due to licensing regulations, individuals must be in the state of Michigan to access services.
MSU employees and their dependents (age 18+) currently enrolled in an MSU health plan have access to Teladoc. This online medical care service 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.
Wellbeing Tools and Resources:.
The Spartan Resilience Education Program, through various media and seminars/webinars, 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 to develop (or strengthen) the skills needed to respond effectively to their unique collection of challenges.
Learning the basic principles presented in the Breaking Free from Stress course will help you experience less day-to-day stress and more joy and satisfaction as you increase your capacity to live your life in alignment with your deepest wisdom and greatest sense of purpose. 2025 session dates are out now!
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 when you’re feeling overwhelmed, worried about someone, or stressed.
TheMSU Grief and Loss Support Group meets weekly (virtually) to support individuals grieving the loss of a friend, loved one, pet, co-worker, or family member.
University Health and Wellbeing creates an inclusive, responsive work environment that respects and supports all employees’ wellbeing in their work and personal lives.
Abrams Planetarium is holding Rest with Music live musical performances featuring a variety of musical styles and genres.
Set for Success: A 45-minute virtual webinar focusing on three key health topics—Sleep, Ergonomics, and Time Management. This series provides valuable insights and practical tips to help participants make positive lifestyle changes at work and at home.
Review the Well-being at Work Guide to learn how to create and maintain healthier and happier workspaces and teams.
The Beal Botanical Garden is a favorite place for campus and community members to unplug from the chaos of their everyday lives and enjoy the beauty of 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 a Campus Meditation Map, which highlights places across campus where you can take a moment to center yourself and practice self-care or enjoy a beautiful view.
Online Mental Health Screening: The Ingham County Health Department offers free and anonymous behavioral health screening and links to resources related to your results.
There is often no “right” decision in both work and life. We’re frequently faced with an abundance of options, which doesn’t make the act of decision-making any easier. Whether you’re someone who experiences decision paralysis, makes rash decisions you regret, or falls anywhere in between, you will likely benefit from simplifying decision-making with a balanced combination of intuition and critical thinking.
Types of Decision Making
Decisions should, ideally, come from a clear understanding of your needs, values, and goals. When you’re in a familiar situation, do you find your decisions are fast and automatic? This is likely based on your established experience with what works and what doesn’t. However, when encountering a new situation, you may need more time to weigh potential benefits and risks. Knowing various decision-making approaches can help you determine what’s best for your unique circumstances.
Informed Decision Making
The ability to think critically is key to making good decisions free from common errors or bias. Informed decision making means not just listening to your intuition or “going with your gut,” but instead figuring out what knowledge you lack and obtaining it. When you look at all possible sources of information with an open mind, you can make an informed decision based on facts and intuition.
Satisficing vs. Maximizing Decision Making
A satisficing approach to making decisions involves settling for a “good enough” outcome, even if flawed. Alternatively, a maximizing approach waits for conditions to be as perfect as possible to minimize potential risks. People who make good decisions know when it’s essential to act immediately, and when there’s time to wait and gather more facts before making a choice.
Decision-Making Styles
If you feel stuck when making a decision, consider the decision-making styles below. Examine these factors and consider how they relate to your potential decision.
Style
Behavior
When to use
Do not use when
Authoritative
Time is short.
As a decision maker, you have all the knowledge needed.
As a decision maker, you do not have all the knowledge or insight needed.
The issue is important to a group/team.
You need buy-in from others.
Consultative (group or individual)
You gather input from individuals or a group, and then decide.
You decide along with a group; everyone understands the decision, and the majority of people are willing to implement.
Others don’t have a say in the decision (as a decision maker, you may have privileged information).
Majority
It is a relatively trivial matter or a low-stakes decision.
You reach a decision with a group; everyone understands the decision and is willing to implement it.
The decision affects everyone in a meaningful way.
Consensus
You delegate the decision to an individual or a team, with your set constraints.
The decision will impact everyone, and everyone needs to buy in fully.
There is potential value in the team discussing or working together on the decision.
Time is short.
Delegate
The delegate has all the necessary skills, or a coach or mentor can assist.
You decide with a group; everyone understands the decision and is willing to implement it.
It is a high-risk or high-profile decision.
Decision-Making Myths
Making decisions can be stressful, and it’s easy to fall into falsehoods about decision making to avoid putting in the sometimes difficult effort to make the best choice. Consider some common myths related to decision making and think of ways to avoid these traps.
Myth #1: I just need to solve this problem now; I don’t have time to make this decision.
Putting off a decision is a decision in and of itself. However, intentionally slowing down to clarify your problem will speed up your efficacy. Put in the quality time now to avoid revisiting a decision you may regret later. Our issues sit in a context. If your focus is too narrow or your process is too rushed, you may solve the wrong problem or only partially solve the problem.
Myth #2: This is my decision alone; I don’t need to involve others.
Most important decisions involve other stakeholders. Avoiding the bigger picture of who else is affected by a decision can, at best, only partially solve the problem and may unintentionally exacerbate it. Be mindful that when many people are involved in making a decision, the process can become stalled by groupthink, when well-intentioned individuals make poor or irrational choices out of a desire to conform or avoid dissent. Ensure any involved individuals feel safe and confident expressing doubts and concerns.
Myth #3: Decision making is a linear process.
Good decision-making is circular, requiring a feedback loop as information is gathered and analyzed over time. Don’t be surprised if you need to return to find additional information or adjust your decisions.
When faced with difficult decisions, take the time to ensure your choices are based on what’s happening and not simply reflect learned behavior patterns that may no longer be useful. Carefully weigh any potential issues, commit to a decision, and then follow through. Interested in further advancing your decision-making skills and knowledge? Check out the elevateU resources below to get started.
We are featuring a job posting (#1036466) for an Assistant Director of Benefits to join us at MSU Human Resources (HR)!
Our mission is to provide strategic human resources expertise, counsel, support, and services for the MSU community. MSU’s diverse and talented workforce deserves an outstanding employee experience, which includes a comprehensive benefits package. Learn more about MSU benefits on the HR website.
Under the direction of the Director of Benefits, the Assistant Director will administer multiple benefit programs from vendor selection to implementation, addressing any service issues that arise. You will collaborate to sustain, promote, and grow benefit programs supporting the MSU strategic plan.
This position manages multiple programs for HR benefits, including (but not limited to) the following responsibilities:
Negotiating with vendors over service and benefits costs.
Assisting the Director of Benefits in the overall administration of the benefits function, including acting as a proxy for the Director as needed during absences.
Investigating new benefits programs and improving existing programs.
Supervising benefits administration and data management.
Providing analytical and technical support in the delivery of benefits programs.
This role is based on the MSU campus in East Lansing, Michigan. HR embraces flexible work options, and this position allows for a hybrid schedule (if desired) with regular onsite work required 2-3 days per week.
Minimum requirements to apply include completing a four-year degree in Human Resources Administration or a related field and three to five years of work experience in benefits administration. Experience with ERISA and COBRA plans, Medicare and Medicaid coordination, ACA reporting, and supervision of a team of managers is desired. The MSU Careers website provides a comprehensive list of job responsibilities and minimum/desired qualifications.
