March Events Round-Up

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If you and your family are looking for events in March, you have come to the right place! Marchholds many opportunities on campus and in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Visit the links below to explore upcoming events and register if required.

Campus Events

March 1 – Family Day: NOURISH: The first Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum!  Join from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to make creative connections with our exhibits and learn more about how art connects to the food in our everyday lives. 

March 1 – Quiet Adventures Symposium: Quiet Adventures Symposium is the country’s longest running indo expo that is dedicated to promoting non motorized outdoor conservation and recreation. Vendors, exhibitors, and guest speakers from across the Midwest will be there sharing the latest in outdoor and adventure products, news, and activities.

March 9 – Midday Movement Series: Take a midday break and stop by the MSU Library for a variety of classes to help get you moving this spring! From 12:10 to 12:50 p.m., get your move on and bring athletic shoes, water, and a towel

March 11 through 16 – Life of Pi: Life of Pi, winner of three Tony Awards and the Olivier Award for Best Play, is an exhilarating story of perseverance and hope that speaks to every generation and “gives a new life to Broadway.” This is the story of a sixteen-year old boy named Pi and his survival on a lifeboat with four companions – a hyena, a zebra, an orangutan, and a Royal Bengal Tiger. 

March 12 – ARTIST TALK: Michaela Nichelle: From 6:00 to 7:30 p.m., join Michaela Nichelle, an artist who was part of the first cohort of students to graduate from MSU’s African American and African Studies program in 2024, for a talk on the transformative power of food, community and their view on art. Arrive early to see the artist’s work in person.

March 29 – CĂ©sar Chávez & Dolores Huerta Commemorative Celebration: Learn about the 15th annual celebration and register to honor the legacies of farmworkers and Latinx communities, as well as their history, challenges and progress in the U.S. The event is from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m.

Learning Opportunities

Dates in March and April – Breaking the Cycle Stress and Burnout Support for Women in Academia: This group therapy series is designed for women (all are welcome) in academia seeking relief from the demands of stress, burnout, and overwhelm. Together, we’ll explore evidence-based strategies to complete the stress cycle and develop tools for setting boundaries, fostering resilience, and rediscovering joy in your work.

March 7 – TIPS on Disability Dynamics: Theory, Accessibility, and Practice: Join us from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. for this hybrid learning experience hosted by the Center for Teaching and Learning! Elevate your curriculum development, and learn effective strategies and innovative approaches to being a leader in your community. Registration is required for this free class.

March 11 – Introduction to Gender, Names, and Pronouns: Learn appropriate and respectful ways to use names and pronouns and promote gender inclusivity in the workplace from this course. Understand why safety and privacy surrounding gender, names, and pronouns matter, and become educated on recovering when mistakes happen. This class will be held virtually from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can register through EBS.

March 17 – Equitable Hiring Practices Seminar: The Equity and Compliance Team within the Office for Institutional Diversity and Inclusion is hosting a seminar designed to engage the Spartan community in efforts supporting equal employment opportunity and affirmative actions diversifying the workplace. Join us in Erikson Hall from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. for a discussion on inclusive practices in the workplace. 

March 26 – 25th Annual William G. Anderson Lecture Series with Barbara Ross-Lee, D.O.: Hosted by the MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine, listen to Barbara Ross-Lee, a living icon of the American Civil Rights Movement, at the Wharton Center at 5 p.m.

Greater Lansing Area Events

Recurring Sundays – Brunch and Lunch Family Sunday: Join in every Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Lansing Shuffleboard and Social Club. Games are out, and kids of all ages are welcome to come play in video game tournaments, giant jenga and cornhole in the main hall, and brunch specials will be available! 

March 1 and 15 – Contra and Square Dance: All dances are taught and no partner is needed at the Contra and Square Dance class. Wear loose clothes, comfortable shoes, and be prepared to have a good time! Stop by at 6:30 p.m. for a quick and fun dance lesson!

March 15 – St. Patrick’s Day Parade: Visit Downtown Grand Ledge for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. There will be dancers, bagpipes, and more, starting at 2:00 p.m.! 

March 23 – Finders Keepers Vintage Market: The Ingham County Fair Grounds is hosting the Finder’s Keepers Vintage Market with over 150 vendors, an entire food truck rally, free photobooth photos, and free parking. Stop by with your friends and family from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. to check out things from handmade crafts to vintage treasures, and more! 

March 27 – Lansing Symphony Orchestra: Visit the Robin Theatre in Lansing for the unique, intimate concerts of contemporary chamber music from the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. 

Family-Friendly Events

March 9 and 19 – Impression 5’s Sensory Friendly Hours: You and your family have the chance to visit the Impression 5 Science Center’s select exhibits altered to reduce sounds, scents, and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect a small group capacity, pop-up activities and maps designated for these select areas.

Friday through Sundays – Abrams Planetarium: The Dark Matter Mystery: Have you ever wondered what keeps galaxies together or why the Universe looks the way it does? Visit the Abrams Planetarium to see a show that takes you on the biggest quest of contemporary astrophysics and learn about Dark Matter and the mysteries behind it!

Recurring Sundays – Abrams Planetarium Children’s Feature Show: Bring your family and friends to the Abrams Planetarium to learn about Celeste: a child fascinated by dinosaurs. Watch her exciting adventure to learn about the start of earth and travel back in time to learn all about dinosaurs and their extension. Tickets coming soon.

 Farmers Markets

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. 

Every Other Saturday – Meridian Farmers Market: Visit the Meridian Farmers Market inside the Meridian Mall! The market vendors offer farm, food, and crafts, and a majority of the products sold are locally grown or made.

Celebrate Random Acts of Kindness in the Workplace

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No act of kindness is ever wasted. This week is Random Acts of Kindness Week, and Random Acts of Kindness Day is observed annually on February 17th. This day, established in 1995, was created to promote positivity, unity, and harmony across all communities and types of people. By encouraging everyone to engage in random acts of kindness throughout the workplace and in the Spartan community, we can embrace the spirit of the day and continue spreading kindness every other day too!

One small act of kindness can change the course of someone’s day. Whether you are holding the door for a stranger or congratulating your coworker on an achievement, there are so many ways to brighten someone’s day through acts of kindness. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate Random Acts of Kindness Day in the workplace and promote connection and positivity between each other: 

  • Show Recognition: To recognize a coworker for their hard work, assistance, or value, give them a shout-out during a team meeting, or send them and/or their supervisor an email to share your experience. You could also nominate a colleague for a Spartan shout-out in the InsideMSU newsletter by filling out this form. 
  • Check-in with your Co-workers: Between the increasing demands of work and home life, people are feeling more stressed than ever. Luckily, studies show there is a powerful antidote to stress: kindness. According to Forbes, “Kindness works because it helps people feel more connected with others, and it distracts them from their own problems. Happiness is significantly correlated with belonging and community—so it makes sense kindness would be a source of joy” (Forbes, 2023). Check-in with your co-workers to see how they’re doing and really listen to determine what small acts of kindness you can do to help brighten their day. Just the act of actively listening with your full attention can do wonders to show others you care and are there to help.
  • Support a New Employee: Starting a new position can be intimidating. Reach out to a new employee and offer your assistance as they navigate their new role. Your support will help them feel welcomed and more connected to the team. 
  • Celebrate Success: Whether your team has just completed a challenging project or it’s a co-worker’s work anniversary, don’t let the moment pass without acknowledging the contribution and value of each team member.  
  • Volunteer: Volunteer work is one of the best ways to promote kindness and positivity in the community. Join Spartans near and far on Give Green Day on March 11 to help current and future students. Find more volunteer opportunities with the Greater Lansing Food Bank, MSU Gardens, Office of Sustainability, MSU Center for Survivors, Office for Civil Rights, Spartans Serve, and more. Volunteering helps foster community, build social bonds, and address social challenges. 
  • Create an Inclusive Environment: Build your cultural awareness and understanding to promote a sense of safety and belonging for all employees. Learn cultural awareness and inclusiveness skills through HR’s OPD courses, elevateU online learning opportunities, and University Health and Wellbeing events and training. 

Together as Spartans, we can contribute to a better workplace and community by embracing the unity and positivity that prospers from kindness.

Job of The Week: Football Athletic Trainer

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This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting for a Football Athletic Trainer III for MSU Athletics (job posting 1022012). If you are interested in managing health care related issues for football athletes, this may be the role for you! 

MSU and its Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is a proud member of the Big 10 Conference sponsoring 23 varsity sports programs, including 11 men’s and 12 women’s teams. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is committed to operating an athletic program that excels with integrity, positivity, and community. 

In this position, you will work with the team’s physician to coordinate the athletes’ health care, provide information and plans to coaches, evaluate injuries to treat, execute appropriate referrals, design rehabilitation exercises for athletes, and implement return to sport programs, among other duties. You will also be responsible for ensuring safety and preventing injuries by designing special pads and performing equipment checks, following all policies and procedures, and collaborating with Sports Performance and Nutrition personnel. 

The education, experience, and skills desired for this role include a Master’s degree in Physical Education and five to eight years of related experience in all aspects of athletic training. You will also need a certification from the National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA). Additional experience as Head Football Athletic Trainer is preferred. 

Learn more about MSU Intercollegiate Athletics here. To learn more about this position or apply, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a resume and should be submitted by February 25.

Job of The Week: Physical Therapist Assistant

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This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting as a Physical Therapy Assistant for MSU Health Care (job posting 959405). If you are interested in helping patients improve their mobility and functional abilities, this may be the position for you.

From joint ventures and partnerships to leveraging expansive clinical research and expert educational strengths for our patients, MSU Health Care focuses on providing healing and caring to all. Their missions are to deliver a personalized experience and a safe environment for all, train the next generation of clinicians, ensure equitable access, and offer the highest quality of care. MSU Health Care remains dedicated to providing an exceptional experience and enhancing life. 

In this position, you will work under the supervision of a physical therapist to help patients improve their functional abilities and mobility in both recovery and everyday needs. You will provide hands-on treatment to patients and assist with therapeutic exercises. Additionally, you will be responsible for supporting patients of all ages in their recovery process. Work hours for this role will vary as necessary to accommodate clinic operations. 

The education, experience, and skills desired for this role include an associate’s degree in Physical Therapist Assistant from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE). You should also have six months to one year of related or progressively more expansive work experience in administering physical therapy treatments. 

Learn more about MSU Health Care on their website. To learn more about this position or apply, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a resume, cover letter, and a Valid State of Michigan Physical Therapist Assistant License and should be submitted by February 19.

Tips and Benefits Resources for Heart Health

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According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Cardiovascular disease, which refers to several conditions including coronary artery disease (CAD), heart attack, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, and heart valve problems, results in one death every 33 seconds (CDC, 2024). 

It’s important to note that cardiovascular disease is no longer something people only have to worry about as they get older. The CDC states, “In 2022, about 1 out of every 5 deaths from cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) was among adults younger than 65 years old” (CDC, 2024).

The good news is cardiovascular disease is largely preventable by living a healthy lifestyle. The following tips and MSU benefit resources will help keep you and your family healthy: 

  • Know Your Numbers: Take charge of your health by knowing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels and take steps to improve them if needed.
    • Schedule your annual wellness check-up. Many miss their annual check-up because they forget or don’t prioritize them. It’s important to schedule your yearly visit so your doctor can check these numbers and other important health metrics. If you’re enrolled in an MSU health plan, you can learn more about your plan and find links to find a provider on the HR website. 
    • Use Livongo by Teladoc Health for Diabetes Management.  Livongo is a diabetes management program that provides unlimited test strips, connected meter, optional coaching, online records, and more – all FREE for MSU employees and their eligible dependents who are enrolled in an MSU health plan. Learn more about Livongo and how to sign up. 
  • Support Your Mental Health: According to the American Heart Association, “Increasing evidence shows that biological and chemical factors that trigger mental health issues may also influence heart disease” (AHA, 2023). These chemical changes can predispose people to other health issues, such as cardiovascular disease. Utilize these resources to support your mental health:
  • Evaluate Your Diet: Eating foods high in salt, sugar, saturated, and/or trans fats can cause high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, which may increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
    • Eat a Plant-Forward (Plant-Based) Diet. Make sure the majority of your calories come from fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts/seeds (American Heart Association, 2025). If you must eat dairy and/or meat, look for low-fat, lean, and unprocessed options. The AHA recommends a list of the best plant-based sources of protein and offers insight into protein and heart health. 
    • Beware Unexpected Sources of Sodium. The top ten sources of sodium in the American diet include some unexpected items, including bread, sandwiches, cold cuts, pizza, rice, and soups (CDC, 2024). 
    • Food and Nutrition Counseling for MSU Employees. MSU University Health and Wellbeing offers one-on-one counseling and additional resources  to promote a non-diet approach that uses an eating competence model and a weight-inclusive approach to support health. 
  • Get Regular Physical Activity: The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week – that’s just 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.
  • Quit Smoking. Smoking harms almost every part of the body, including your heart (AHA, 2023). It’s never too late to quit and there are both short- and long-term benefits to giving up smoking.

Sources: 

American Heart Association (2022, May 6). Smoking both traditional and e-cigarettes may carry same heart risks as Cigarettes alone. Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.heart.org/en/news/2022/05/06/smoking-both-traditional-and-e-cigarettes-may-carry-same-heart-risks-as-cigarettes-alone

American Heart Association (2023, December 20). How does plant-forward (plant-based) eating benefit your health? Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/how-does-plant-forward-eating-benefit-your-health

American Heart Association (2024, January 10). What is cardiovascular disease? Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease

American Heart Association (2024, January 19). American Heart Association recommendations for physical activity in adults and kids. Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults

American Heart Association. (n.d.). How can I quit smoking? Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.heart.org/-/media/files/health-topics/answers-by-heart/how-can-i-quit-smoking.pdf

CDC. “About Sodium and Health.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Accessed 27 Jan. 2025 www.cdc.gov/salt/about/index.html

CDC. “Heart Disease Facts.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Accessed 27 Jan. 2025, www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/data-research/facts-stats/index.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, June 6). About Sodium. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/salt/food.htm

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, May 15). Heart disease facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved February 12, 2024, from https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm

Michigan State University. “Functional Movement Screening.” Functional Movement Screening | Health Promotion & Engagement | Michigan State University, Accessed 27 Jan. 2025. healthpromotion.msu.edu/fitness/functionalmovement/index.html

Michigan State University. “Bike Commuter Resources.” MSU Bikes Blog, 8 Nov. 2024, msubikes.wordpress.com/commuter-benefits/

Michigan State University. “Cessation Resources.” Cessation | Tobacco & Smoke Free MSU | Michigan State University, Accessed 27 Jan. 2025, tobaccofree.msu.edu/cessation/index.html

Michigan State University. “Comprehensive Fitness Assessment.” Comprehensive Fitness Assessment | Health Promotion & Engagement | Michigan State University, healthpromotion.msu.edu/fitness/assessment/index.html. Accessed 27 Jan. 2025. https://healthpromotion.msu.edu/fitness/assessment/index.html

Michigan State University. “Spartan Wellness Training.” Spartan Wellness Training | Recreational Sports and Fitness Services | Michigan State University, Accessed 27 Jan. 2025.

https://recsports.msu.edu/fitness/wellness.htmlMSU Human Resources. “Happy World Mental Health Day!” SourceLive, 10 October 2024, https://sourcelive.hr.msu.edu/?p=18488

Job of the Week: Four Full-time Electrician Positions

Published on by Megan MacGregorLeave a comment

We are featuring a job posting (#1019067) to fill four full-time, in-person positions as an Electrician for MSU’s Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) unit.

IPF is responsible for planning, building, maintaining, and beautifying MSU’s physical campus environment to support the university’s education, research, and outreach missions. The unit’s experienced team keeps MSU running 24/7/365 by supporting the university’s infrastructure needs and providing expert analysis for the university’s objectives.

In this role, you will maintain, repair, and install secondary power distribution systems (120-600 volts), test continuity of electrical circuits of installed or repaired equipment, analyze malfunctioning electrical equipment, install and troubleshoot variable frequency drives and similar equipment, and interpret blueprints, diagrams, and sketches, among other responsibilities.

Completion of a high school education (or equivalent training/experience), successful completion of an applicable trade-specific Trades Helper program (or equivalent education/experience), five years of experience in the electrical trade, and possession of a State of Michigan Journeyman Electrician license is required.

Ideally, IPF is looking for creative and innovative lifelong learners who can communicate effectively with a diverse population and collaborate in a team environment.

We encourage you to learn more about MSU’s generous benefits package, which includes comprehensive health care for you and your family, a 10% contribution towards your retirement, sick/vacation/personal/holiday paid time off, tuition assistance, and more.

Ready to apply?

You can learn more about Infrastructure Planning and Facilities (IPF) and apply for this position on the MSU Careers website with your resume by February 11.

February Events Round – Up

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If you and your family are looking for events in February, you have come to the right place! February holds many opportunities on campus and in the Greater Lansing area for you to check out. Visit the links below to explore upcoming events and register if required.

Campus Events

All Month – Black History Month Events: Michigan State University celebrates Black History Month each year throughout February. This month is dedicated to highlighting the U.S. history of Black and African American people. Colleges, units, and student organizations will host commemorative events across campus.

February 1 – Family Day: Grow: The first Saturday of the month means Family Day at the MSU Broad Art Museum! Join from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to make creative connections, explore sculpting art, and learn about how food grows at this free event! Registration for this event is highly encouraged. 

February 1 – 21 – These Are For You, I Hope This Helps: Ring Shouts and Standards: Join us at the RCAH LookOut Gallery on the 2nd floor of Snyder Hall for the 14th Annual Perspectives in African-American Experience: Emerging Visions Residency and Exhibition featuring the work of artists Darryl D’Angelo Terrell and Samiya Bashir. 

February 10 – 14 – Love Data Week: Celebrate all things data during Love Data Week, Feb. 10-14. Michigan State University is participating in Love Data Week by hosting data events and educational opportunities geared toward faculty, staff, and students. Learn more on the Institutional Research website.

February 8, 11 and 18 – MSU Men’s Basketball at Home:  Join us at the Breslin Center to watch MSU Men’s Basketball play. Visit the website for ticket information and to see the full season schedule.

February 11 – 16 – MJ The Musical: Michael Jackson’s unique and unparalleled artistry is coming to the Wharton Center! Join us to see this multi Tony-Award winning new musical centered around the 1992 Dangerous World Tour to get a rare view of the creative mind and spirit that launched Michael Jackson’s career into legendary status. Tickets are available for purchase here.

February 13, 20, and 27 – Slavery to Freedom: An American Odyssey: MSU College of Osteopathic Medicine Annual Dr. Willian G. Anderson Lecture Series gives the community the chance to interact with multicultural leaders from all areas. Hear from three distinguished speakers at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts and be sure to secure your tickets here.

February 15 – June 29 – Nabil Kanso: Echoes of War Exhibition: This exhibit, located at the MSU Broad Art Museum, follows the artist Nabil Kanso’s mission to create awareness about historical events and show solidarity with those suffering globally. Read more about the exhibit and get your free tickets here. 

Family – Friendly Events 

February 1 – 28 – Snow Tubing at Hawk Island County Park: The Hawk Island Snow Tubing Hill is excited to welcome families and friends to embrace the winter season and enjoy some tubing! Warm-up stations, concessions, and rental tubes are available for purchase. Check out ticket pricing and available sessions here!

Recurring Sundays February 2 – 23 – Abrams Planetarium February 2025 Children’s Feature Show: Join children’s entertainer Fred Penner in exploring things from the colors of the rainbow to the reason for the seasons through song and immersive environments. Children are encouraged to participate while learning about the planets, constellations, the moon, and more. Tickets can be purchased at the door or online here. 

Greater Lansing Area Events 

February 21 – 23 – Michigan Nordic Fire Festival 2025: The Michigan Nordic Fire Festival, held in Charlotte, Michigan, is an event held during the last weekend of February featuring fun activities including battles, combat performances, archery, sled races, and more. There will also be chances to participate in contests, try new foods, and more for the whole family. Check out our website for times, parking information, and location details.

February 27th – Lansing Symphony Orchestra at the Robin Theatre: Visit the Robin Theatre in Lansing for the unique, intimate concerts of contemporary chamber music from the Lansing Symphony Orchestra. Visit the website for more information on the Lansing Symphony Orchestra and to secure tickets now! 

February 22nd – Old Town Chocolate Walk: At the Old Town Chocolate Walk, you will travel the neighborhood and collect chocolates at each location to support the Old Town Commercial Association and contribute to keeping Lansing’s Old Town revitalized. With your ticket you receive a custom box, punch card, map, and chocolates at every stop! Secure your tickets here.

Farmers Markets

Recurring Saturdays – Holt Farmers Market: Visit the Delhi Township Fire Department for one of Michigan’s premiere indoor farmers markets. The Holt Farmers market serves as a space to support local farmers and food growers, local artisans, and provide locals the opportunity to purchase wholesome, locally produced foods. Be sure to check out the website for more information! 


Every Other Saturday – Meridian Farmers Market: Visit the Meridian Farmers Market inside the Meridian Mall! The market vendors offer farm, food, and crafts, and a majority of the products sold are locally grown or made.

Job of The Week: Event Coordinator

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This week, MSU Human Resources is featuring a job posting as a Project and Event Coordinator for the College of Engineering (job posting 1015740). If you are interested in event coordination, national travel, administrative support, payment and registration management, and logistical support, this may be the role for you.

The MSU College of Engineering prides itself on developing practice-ready engineers and computer scientists, solving complex transdisciplinary problems, driving economic development, and providing innovative and engaging teaching and a culturally rich and inclusive environment. With many research, educational, outreach, and engagement goals on the horizon, the College of Engineering is recognized as a leader in solving global problems and supporting students and alumni. 

In this position, you will plan and execute logistics for conferences, workshops, and seminars, collaborate with planning committees and hotels to manage travel and vendor exhibits and provide on-site support. You will arrange air travel and car rentals, process reimbursements, manage office supplies, coordinate payments for events and training, and assist with processing conference registrations and payments. You may travel up to four to eight times per year to support NCPP conferences and training programs. 

The education, experience, and skills desired for this role include a degree in Public Relations, Communications, Business, or a related area, as well as one to three years of related and more expansive work experience in managing and planning special events. Experience in word processing, database, spreadsheet, desktop publishing, and presentation software is required. You should be organized, skilled at managing events, and have experience collaborating with diverse stakeholders and MSU financial systems. 

Learn more about the College of Engineering. To learn more about this position or if you are interested in applying, please visit the MSU Careers website. Applications require a resume, cover letter, and three professional references, and should be submitted by February 18.

Q&A: Vacation/Personal Paid Time Off (PTO)

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Do you have a plan for using your vacation/personal paid time off (PTO) this year? According to this  Forbes article, “American workers are notorious for being workaholics. Since March of 2020, an overwhelming majority of U.S. employees have shortened, postponed, or canceled their vacation time.” While most of us are aware that time away from work is crucial to maintaining mental health and supporting our relationships, we sometimes have a hard time truly disconnecting. 

While it may seem harmless to check in a couple of times while you’re away, to really benefit from a vacation you need to disconnect entirely. Review these tips for setting boundaries so you can get adequate rest and reset. Having a plan for setting boundaries with your team before, during, and after your vacation will help reduce pre- and post-vacation stress. 

We encourage everyone to work with their supervisor to schedule a well-deserved break. And don’t forget, employee discounts for travel are available through MSU Benefits Plus and the HR website. 

Your Top PTO Questions 

The following are the most common questions HR receives regarding PTO and answers vary based on the employee’s personal details. These answers are only applicable to regular, benefit-eligible employees working half-time or more. Please make sure to reference the appropriate policy page for further details: support staff, faculty and academic staff, librarians, and MSU extension. 

  1. Support Staff Only: How do I find out how much PTO I currently have?

    Log into the EBS Portal and select My Time & Payroll from the top navigation, then select the Time Quota Balances tile. For support using the application, please review the Time Quota Balances help page. 

  2.  Support Staff Only: How do I find out how much PTO I have used?

    Log into the EBS Portal and select My Time & Payroll from the top navigation, then select the Time Quota Usage Monthly Report tile. For support using the application, please review the Time Quota Usage Monthly help page. 

  3. Support Staff Only: How do I accrue vacation days? 

    Eligible support staff accrue vacation days monthly. The amount accrued depends on union affiliation, employment percentage, and length of employment. Please review the support staff vacation time policy page for more details. 

  4. Support Staff Only: Is there a maximum amount of vacation PTO I can accrue? 

    Yes. The maximum amount eligible support staff can accrue depends on union affiliation, employment percentage, and length of employment. Please review the support staff vacation time policy page for more details. Support staff cannot earn vacation time beyond the accrual limit. You are encouraged to use your PTO so you don’t lose out on valuable vacation time.

  5.  Support Staff Only: How do I enter my PTO in EBS for supervisor approval?

    Login to the EBS Portal and select My Time & Payroll from the top navigation, then select the Time Entries & Statement tile. Enter the number of hours in the cell for the correct date in the row with the appropriate absence type. For support using the application, please review the Time Entries and Statement help page. 

  6. What is the difference between personal leave, personal observance days, and vacation PTO? 

    Eligible support staff are granted both personal leave and vacation PTO. Eligible faculty and academic staff are granted vacation PTO.  

    For support staff, up to 24 hours of personal leave PTO is granted each fiscal year (July 1 – June 30). The amount granted is proportional to the employment percentage. You may not carry these hours over to the next year, so make sure you use this PTO before the fiscal year ends. Please review the support staff personal leave policy page for more details. Please note: POAM employees should review the POAM union contract for their unique personal leave policy. 

    Vacation PTO is granted to eligible employees and varies based on employee type, union affiliation, employment percentage, length of employment, and new hire status. Please review the appropriate policy for further details: support staff, faculty and academic staff, librarians, and MSU extension. 

    Personal Observance Days are two additional days (16 hours, prorated based on the start date and percent time) of personal time that eligible faculty, support, and academic staff employees will be able to use each calendar year. As of January 2024, employees will be able to use the two additional days of personal time between January 1 and December 31. Please refer to the Personal Observance FAQ page for further details. 

  7. I’m a new employee. Do I have immediate access to my vacation PTO? 

    This depends on your employee type. Eligible faculty, academic, and support staff have access to vacation PTO after 6 months of service. Eligible librarians and MSU Extension employees have access immediately upon employment. Please review the appropriate policy for further details: support staff, faculty and academic staff, librarians, and MSU extension. 

  8. What happens to my unused PTO if I leave the university – such as through retirement or termination?

    Employees will receive payment for unused vacation and personal PTO when they leave the university.

  9. How much vacation time can I use at once? 

    It is up to each department to determine what is an appropriate amount of vacation time to be taken at once. Departments should make sure to consistently approve vacation requests fairly.  

  10. For Time Entry Roles Only: What are the absence and attendance codes? 

    Please review the Absence and Attendance Codes page for specific employee groups for more information. 


    Resources

    More information about PTO for eligible employees can be found on the HR website (support staff and faculty/academic staff). We encourage you to review the appropriate policy pages thoroughly to help answer any questions you may have. Support staff may contact the HR Solutions Center at SolutionsCenter@hr.msu.edu or 517-353-4434 with questions. Questions from faculty and academic staff may be directed to FASAffairs@msu.edu.