UMass HR Insider—September 2025 | Volume 3, Issue 9

Content

Lifelong Learning and Professional Development Opportunities This Fall 

The Partnership for Worker Education (PWE) and Workplace Learning & Development (WLD) are pleased to share a wide range of educational opportunities available to all employees this fall and throughout the year. As the academic year moves forward, it’s a great time to strengthen your job skills, connect with colleagues across campus, or focus on your well-being—there are options here for every interest.

These offerings are practical and flexible, designed with you in mind. Whether you join a single workshop or a series of courses, you’ll find resources to enhance your experience at UMass Amherst.

Here are just a few examples of what you can explore this fall: 

• Your Learning Journey: A simple guide to map learning priorities based on your role’s responsibilities
• Computer & Technology Courses: Learn tools like OneDrive, Microsoft Teams, Excel, Canva, and more
• Leadership Academy: Offers Foundations of Supervision and Essentials of Management certificates for supervisors and managers
• Well-Being Workshops: Resources on meditation, workplace wellness, and stress management strategies
• LinkedIn Learning: Self-guided courses to complement UMass offerings
• Building Bridges: Campus-wide public art and engagement initiatives to strengthen connections and celebrate creativity
• Mindful Tech Use: Discussions on using technology effectively and managing its drawbacks
• Workplace English: Improve communication skills to enhance workplace success
• Career & Education Advising: Professional development and career planning guidance
• Team Development: Support for work units, project teams, cross-functional groups, committees, and task forces to boost effectiveness 

By engaging in these programs, you can advance your expertise, build meaningful connections, and contribute to a supportive, inclusive workplace that benefits everyone at UMass.

New Cybersecurity Training Launches in October

The University of Massachusetts Amherst will introduce a new systemwide course, Security Awareness for End Users, next month. Completion of this training is required for all UMass employees, including full- and part-time staff, student employees, contractors, and contingent workers.

Key details: 

• Delivery: An email in October will include a link to the online training module
• Time Commitment: Approximately 30 minutes
• Deadline: Complete the module within 30 days of receiving the email
• Special Circumstances: Employees on leave must finish the training within one month of returning to work
• Note: This requirement is in addition to the cybersecurity training assigned last February, and required as part of the new fiscal year’s compliance cycle

For questions about the requirement, email compliance [at] umass [dot] edu (subject: ) (compliance[at]umass[dot]edu). 
For accessibility support, contact UMass Amherst Accessibility. 

Help keep university data secure by completing the training promptly! 

Make the Most of HR Direct

As the campus comes alive with students and the academic year ramps up, now is an excellent time to review your HR Direct account. UMass Amherst has rolled out security enhancements and self-service features that make managing your pay, benefits, and personal information smoother—and safer.

• All employees accessing direct deposit or W-2 information via HR Direct must use multifactor authentication (MFA) when logging in. This adds a second verification step (phone, mobile device, etc.) for improved security. Learn how to enroll here
• New and existing users can view and update their personal information (address, emergency contacts), edit tax withholdings, and access pay statements—all from the HR Direct self-service portal
• Confirm your personal info (address, emergency contacts) is current. Mistakes now could lead to issues later in the fall (mailings, tax forms, communications)
• Check your direct deposit settings and tax withholding: If those haven’t been reviewed in a while, now is a good time!

A few minutes now can save a lot of hassle later this fall. Check out HR Direct Support for more information!

Move Together: A Morning of Fun for UMass Families

Saturday, September 27, 10 a.m.–noon 
Student Union South Lawn 

Employees and their families are invited to Move Together, a morning of games and activities designed for kids—and kids at heart. This free event celebrates community and welcomes all ages and abilities. 

Enjoy a wide range of activities: 

• Arts and crafts
• Yoga and dancing
• Toddler play stations
• Family games and races
• Parachute fun and more!

Snacks and drinks will be available, and prizes will add to the excitement. Space is limited, so please RSVP here to let the organizers know you’re coming. Bring your family and join fellow UMass employees for an energizing start to the fall season. 

Tuition Waivers: A Smart Move for Fall Classes

September signals a new school year for students—and an opportunity for employees and their families to pursue their own studies. Benefited staff and faculty can take advantage of UMass’s tuition waiver and remission programs for undergraduate or graduate coursework across the UMass system. If you or a dependent is eyeing a fall or spring course, review the waiver application deadlines and taxable income rules for graduate credits. It is a practical way to grow professionally or help a family member start the academic year on a strong financial footing. Learn more.

Pickleball Meetup for Faculty and Staff 

RecWell invites faculty and staff to an early-morning pickleball meetup every Friday from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. The program runs from September 19 through December 5 on Court 1 at RecWell.

Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, making it easy to learn and enjoyable for players of all abilities. These weekly sessions offer a chance to stay active, sharpen reflexes, and connect with colleagues in a fun, low-pressure environment.

All skill levels are welcome. Bring your sneakers and a paddle if you have one, or borrow equipment at the court.

For details or to sign up, contact Jeff Smith at jbsmith [at] umass [dot] edu (subject: ) (jbsmith[at]umass[dot]edu).

Small-Group Training for Faculty and Staff

RecWell is also offering a six-week small-group training program designed to build strength and improve overall fitness. Led by professional trainers, the class meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:15 a.m., October 21 through December 4, at RecWell.

With a maximum of 12 participants, this program provides personalized attention in a motivating, supportive setting. Participants will complete 12 sessions focused on strength training and proper technique.

A current recreation membership is required. The cost is $180 for the full session. Space is limited, so sign up soon to secure your spot!

Get Involved—The UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center Needs YOU!

The UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center in Springfield invites you to participate in its monthly Center Advisory Working Group meetings, held every third Thursday at 3 p.m. in person at 1500 Main Street, Suite 260, Springfield, MA 01115. Join the conversation, share your work, and learn about other initiatives currently underway. 
 
Reach out to lriveraearly [at] umass [dot] edu (subject: ) (Lidya Rivera-Early), director of government relations and Springfield partnerships, or klgreen [at] educ [dot] umass [dot] edu (subject: ) (Keisha Green), director of civic engagement and research, for more information. 
 

Making the Most of UMass: Your Guide to Employee Resources

As a valued member of the UMass Amherst community, you have access to a wide range of resources designed to enrich both your work and personal life. From convenient dining options to professional development, we encourage you to explore these benefits to make the most of your experience with us.

Maximize your UMass Amherst experience!