October 2022 HRM Newsletter

Aerial fall leaves with campanile on the horizon line

Inside this Edition

Updates & Reminders

HRM Welcomes New Employees

Compensation Team and Market Study Update

Employee of the Month Nominations

KU and GTAC (Graduate Teaching Assistants Coalition) Ratifies a Memorandum of Agreement

Employee Growth

Learning and Development Opportunities

Best Practices in Goal Setting and Feedback

MyTalent System Makeover

Wellness

Lunch N Learn – October and November

Ambler Recreation Center Membership

Flu Shots and COVID-19 Booster

Benefits

State Employee Health Plan Open Enrollment

TIAA and Voya Newsletter

Tuition Assistance for Employees

 

HRM Welcomes New Employees

  • Selene Ronan joined the HR/Pay Systems Team.  Selene previously worked in the Office of Research for the Administrative Compliance & Audit Team which handled duties that related to HR/Pay funding. Selene started at KU in 2017 with the Shared Service Centers and she also had HR/Pay related duties.  Congratulations to Selene as she graduated with her MBA from KU May 2022.
  • Rachel Vogelmeier joined KU on July 11 as our new Program Specialist for the ADA Center for Equity and Accessibility. Previously, Rachel served as the Independent Living Skills and Peer Counseling Specialist at Independence, Inc. here in Lawrence, assisting individuals with disabilities in achieving autonomy in all areas of their lives.
  • Janice Rawls joined the team in June as an Administrative Assistant for the Human Resource Management help desk.  Janice brings to KU several years of experience in customer service and case management. 
  • Samantha Raines joined the Benefits Team in late June, bringing with her 17 years of KU experience. Samantha’s previous roles as an undergraduate academic advisor and office manager prepare her for the important work of assisting employees with their benefits needs.

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Compensation Team and Market Study Update

HRM has recently expanded the compensation team to support the strategic initiatives that involve compensation and pay equity.  We are very excited to have both Jenise Davis and Lisa Cohnes as our new Compensation Analysts.  Jenise Davis started in May and has previous compensation experience at multiple higher education institutions.  Lisa Cohnes started in September and has previous higher education experience along with her most recent role as a compensation consultant. They both bring great experience and expertise to KU, and we are very excited to have them on our team.

HRM and AIRE are working together to conduct a market study for all faculty and staff positions.  A final report, recommendations, and an overall compensation philosophy will be submitted to the CFO in December for review.  

For any questions, you can reach the compensation team by emailing compensation@ku.edu

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Employee of the Month Nominations

Thank you to all who took the time to nominate individuals for Employees of the Month, and we encourage others to follow their example and nominate an exceptional staff member by completing the Employee of the Month Nomination Form

Winners receive a $750 award, a surprise visit from a member of the Provost’s Office, and they become a candidate for the 2023 Employee of the Year Award.

Nominations need not come from an individual’s supervisor; anyone can nominate staff whom they feel go out-of-their way to help others or exceed the normal requirements of their jobs.  This program is open to all regular staff with half-time or greater appointment, with a year of service at the time of nomination.  Employees of most affiliated corporations are also eligible for this program.

July – Sept 2022 Winners:

Allison Schultz
Sarah Domingos
Marianne Reed
Lisa Mann
Gary Mohr
Whitney Jones

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KU and GTAC (Graduate Teaching Assistants Coalition) Ratifies a Memorandum of Agreement  

The University of Kansas and the Graduate Teaching Assistants Coalition (GTAC)/The American Federation of Teachers-Kansas ratified a Memorandum of Agreement for academic years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.  Under the new terms, GTA’s will have a new compensation structure for 2022-2023, receive tuition support for required pedagogy courses (if eligible), and will see changes in the grievance process. 

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Learning and Development Opportunities

Supervisor Coaching Circle: A leader in every chair (NEW)

Are you a STEP graduate looking for a supportive community to help you develop as a leader? A coaching circle may meet that need. The Supervisor Coaching Circle provides a safe, supportive community to explore topics of supervision and tap into the wisdom of the circle. All that’s required is the desire to cooperate and participate in conversations where we can speak and listen fully. Human Resource Management--Learning & Development staff will host the circle, offering focus and some resource materials with the contributions and subject matter coming from the group. The circle is limited to 12 participants and will meet on campus over six consecutive Mondays during the fall semester for one hour each session (Oct. 17, Oct. 24, Oct. 31, Nov. 7, Nov. 14, Nov. 21). For the good of the circle, we ask that you commit to attending all the sessions.

Oct. 17 – Nov. 21 | 11 a.m. – noon | On campus in JRP 204

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Project Leader Certificate Program

The certificate program is an interactive curriculum designed to build capacity of professionals working in the informal role of project manager. This program provides a strong foundation in the processes, tools, and interpersonal aspects of being an effective project manager. This program benefits those who sometimes find themselves assuming the role of an unofficial project manager as well as those who may be subject matter experts, team members, or project sponsors. Participants should come with a project to work on throughout the program, e.g., planning an event; testing and training for a new software solution; improving a process.

The program culminates with each member giving a short, informal presentation describing how they applied the learnings to their current project. These will be scheduled in mid-December at times convenient for the participants and their invited guests.

The instructor-led program starts in October and ends in November and takes place on Zoom. Sessions take place from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. on the following dates: Oct. 11, Oct. 18, Oct. 25, Nov. 1, Nov. 15, and Nov. 22. There will be supplemental readings and LinkedIn Learning courses to complete each week as well. Bring a project to work on throughout the program. At the conclusion of the program, you will be required to give a 10-minute presentation describing how you applied the learning to your project. (Dates for the presentations will be determined later. Typically, participants invite their supervisor, project sponsor, and project team members to attend.)

There is a cost of roughly $185.00 to participate in the program. (Cost varies slightly depending on which book format is chosen.) Contact hrdept@ku.edu with questions. Register for the Project Leader Certificate Program.

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Mental Health First Aid (Virtual)

Virtual Mental Health First Aid is a course designed to teach everyone how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental health or substance use disorder or crisis as well as the skills to be helpful and supportive to someone that is struggling. Participants are taught how to apply the 5-step Mental Health First Aid Action Plan in a wide variety of situations, from helping someone through a panic attack or to working with someone who may be suicidal. After signing up for this class, you will receive email linking you to a 2-hour pre-work session to accomplish on your own prior to the live Zoom class at the date and time you have selected. There is a $30.00 materials fee for this course. Offered through a partnership between Human Resource Management--Learning & Development and Bert Nash Community Mental Health Center. Contact hrdept@ku.edu with questions.

Wednesday, Oct. 26 | 12 – 5 p.m. | Zoom

Tuesday, Dec. 6 | 12 – 5 p.m. | Zoom

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Change Intelligence: CQ® for KU (NEW)

This course educates participants about the strengths and opportunities of their Change Leader Style. Based on the work of Barbara Trautlein, PhD, the course also provides the tools needed to partner with those who have different styles to effectively lead and implement workplace changes. It is open to anyone who wants to grow their self-awareness and make a valuable contribution to their team’s success.

The course consists of a morning and afternoon session. Each session is two hours, and participants must attend both. Zoom details will be provided by the instructor.

Participants must complete the CQ® Assessment in advance and bring their customized report with them to class. The assessment fee is $25.00; participants will be given an access code for the online assessment upon receipt of payment. (If you have previously taken the Assessment and have your original CQ® report, there is no fee for this course.)

Thursday, Nov. 17 | 9 – 11 a.m. and 1 – 3 p.m. | Zoom

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STEP enrollment for supervisors begins in October

Supervisor training will be required for new University of Kansas Lawrence and Edwards staff who are newly hired, promoted or appointed to a supervisory position after Oct. 1. The Supervisory Training for Excellence in Performance (STEP) program is a professional development curriculum designed to improve the capacity of new and seasoned supervisors to lead with vision, confidence, equity and inclusion at KU.

The course consists of 16 sessions delivered over eight course days. The group meets one day each week for both a morning and afternoon session. Supervisors must take STEP within a year of being hired, promoted or appointed. The program only applies to KU staff, including academic staff. Faculty who supervise are not required to participate in STEP at this time.

STEP is offered through two on-campus and two virtual sessions a year:

  • Fall — On campus
  • Winter — Virtual
  • Spring — On campus
  • Summer — Virtual

The STEP curriculum aligns with the Jayhawks Rising strategy to “develop a career life cycle support model for all categories of employees” under the Increase Workplace Satisfaction objective. The course is designed to help supervisors develop stronger leadership skills, as well as the knowledge and training to effectively engage and support their employees. Through this professional and personal development, supervisors will be better prepared for future career opportunities at KU. Eligible supervisors are encouraged to enroll as soon as possible to secure the course block that best fits their schedule.

To enroll in STEP, register through the KU MyTalent portal.

If you have any questions about STEP enrollment or requirements, please contact Kathleen Ames-Stratton, director of human resources for learning & development, at kames-stratton@ku.edu.

The University of Kansas is a major comprehensive research and teaching university. The university's mission is to lift students and society by educating leaders, building healthy communities and making discoveries that change the world. The KU News Service is the central public relations office for the Lawrence campus.

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Best Practices in Goal Setting and Feedback

If not already done, supervisors should meet one-on-one with the staff they supervise to identify their goals and expectations for the new evaluation period.  Annual goal setting ensures that staff know what is expected in their positions and clearly communicates priorities for work and the unit overall.

If you goals and expectations have been established, this message can serve as a reminder for supervisors to check in with staff on progress and to provide feedback on their performance toward the responsibilities of their position and the expectations that have been identified. 

Human Resource Management has developed a video on Best Practices in Goal Setting and a presentation on Best Practices in Providing Feedback.  We encourage staff and supervisors of staff to view these resources and.

Goals are to be documented in writing on the staff member’s goal plan in MyTalent.  It is also recommended that feedback be documented on the staff member’s goal plan as well. All available job aids and tutorial videos are on the Human Resource Management website.

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MyTalent System Makeover

MyTalent will have a new look coming late fall 2022. Be on the lookout for the updated user experience.  If you have any questions, please contact Amber Eshelman at aeshelman@ku.edu.

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Lunch N Learn – October and November

October 2022 Lunch-N-Learn – Increasing Your Healthspan

Wednesday October 19th 12:00- 12:45 PM, Virtually (register on the Faculty and Staff Wellness webpage)

                Presented by: DeAnna Hatch, Nutritional Health Coach

               Not just lifespan but “Healthspan” (living healthy longer – not just living longer)

Let’s talk about food and supplements to support vitality. Knowing how nutrients work with your body makes it easier to understand which foods to eat and supplements to take to keep the body healthy. WARNING: Attendees may experience side affects such as weight loss, decreased aches and pains, balanced hormones, and real energy.

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November 2022 – Lunch N Learn – Reclaiming Your Space

Wednesday November 16, 2022, 12:00-12:45PM, Virtually (register on the Faculty and Staff Wellness webpage)

                Presented by: Barbara Oldham, Professional Organizer, The Inspired Home by B

Have you ever thought your house is becoming more of a warehouse than a place to live? Get rid of what’s taking up space and give this presentation a try! “Your home is a living space, not storage space.” – Francine Jay

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Ambler Recreation Center Membership

Faculty or staff who are currently employed on the Lawrence campus, Edwards campus, or KU Medical Center are eligible to purchase a membership to the Ambler Student Recreation Fitness Center.  Faculty/Staff can purchase a membership on a weekly, monthly, semester, or annual basis. Faculty/Staff can also payroll deduct their membership on a 9 month or 12 month basis. Verification of status will occur prior to activation of membership.  Faculty/Staff can also purchase their membership online by visiting KU Recstore. Faculty/staff must bring KU Photo ID with them.  Prospective faculty/staff are eligible for a one-time one-week trial at no charge by visiting our administrative office during business hours (M-F 8a-6p).  For more information about KU Recreation Services,  please visit the KU Recreation webpage

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Flu Shots and COVID-19 Boosters

To help keep you healthy, Watkins Health Services is hosting walk-in flu shot clinics at various campus locations during the month of October. Vaccine will be available while supplies last.  Bring your health insurance card with you to a clinic to have your insurance billed. Current KU employees enrolled in the State Employee Health Plan (and spouses enrolled in the employee’s plan) have flu shots provided by Watkins Health Services covered in full as a preventive care benefit. 

The new COVID-19 bivalent booster designed to protect against omicron subvariants will also be available at these clinics. You are eligible if it has been at least two months since you completed the initial Pfizer or Moderna series or received your last booster. Please bring your COVID-19 vaccine card with you. Booster shots are free.

Employees who are unable to attend a clinic can make an appointment to receive a flu shot or COVID-19 booster at Watkins Memorial Health Center by calling the Faculty & Staff Clinic at 785-864-9565

Clinic Schedule:

  • Wednesday, October 12, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Strong Hall Rotunda
  • Thursday, October 13, 10:30 am - 1:30 pm, Kansas Union, Governors Room
  • Tuesday, October 18, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Kansas Union, 4th Floor
  • Wednesday, October 19, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Wescoe Underground
  • Thursday, October 20, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Anschutz Library, 3 North
  • Tuesday, October 25, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Strong Hall Rotunda
  • Wednesday, October 26, 11:00 am - 1:00 pm, Burge Union, Discovery Room
  • Thursday, October 27, 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm, Watkins Memorial Health Center

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State Employee Health Plan Open Enrollment

Open Enrollment for SEHP Plan Year 2022 runs from October 1 - 31, 2022.   Information about the SEHP is available in the 2023 Enrollment Guide(pdf), and the 2022 Plan Rates and Health Plan Comparison Highlights Chart(pdf) that has consolidated information about premiums, coverage highlights, and HSA/HRA applicability.

The SEHP Open Enrollment website has on-demand Open Enrollment and vendor videos to provide additional information about the plans and options available.  

Open Enrollment for 2023 is an active enrollment and all eligible employees who want medical plan coverage need to make elections during Open Enrollment in the Membership Administration Portal (MAP), even if you wish to keep the same medical plan and the same insurance companyIf you are enrolled in a medical plan and do not make a medical plan election during Open Enrollment, you will be defaulted into Plan N with an HRA and with the same insurance company for PY 2023.

You are strongly encouraged to enroll early in October in case you need assistance.  You may go into MAP as many times as needed during Open Enrollment to make changes.  The selection saved as of midnight on October 31st will become effective January 1st.

Open Enrollment 2023 – Optional Group Life Insurance

Life insurance provides financial protection for you and your family.   Benefits-eligible employees have basic life insurance coverage equal to 150% of annualized salary.  During Open Enrollment, October 1-31, you can apply for additional optional group life insurance with guaranteed issue amounts for you, your spouse and/or child(ren) without answering health questions.   Approved coverage starts January 1st.   

The 2023 Open Enrollment Handout has more information on Open Enrollment.  To make changes to Optional Group life coverage complete the Application Form  and return it to the Benefits Office no later than 5 p.m., October 31st by fax to 785-864-5200 or email benefits@ku.edu.

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TIAA and Voya Newsletter

This 4th quarter newsletter from TIAA and Voya about the Kansas Board of Regents 403(b) Mandatory and Voluntary Retirement Plans, contains information about updating your beneficiaries, National Retirement Security Month, online tools and calculators, and on-demand webinars.

All benefits-eligible employees can participate in the Voluntary Plan.

The Mandatory Plan is available for eligible faculty and unclassified professional staff.

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Tuition Assistance for Employees

The Provost recently announced a change to the KU Lawrence and Edwards Employee Tuition Assistance Program, beginning with the spring 2023 semester. The program currently provides eligible employees with financial assistance to cover tuition for one class per semester up to five credit hours. The new program beginning in spring 2023 will provide the opportunity to complete up to 12 credit hours per year, so employees may have greater flexibility in deciding how to engage in life-long learning and career development.

To access the Online Tuition Assistance Application and for information about the program, please visit the Human Resource Tuition Assistance for Employees webpage. Spring 2023 applications will accepted through November 4, 2022.

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