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UMass HR Insider—December 2023 | Volume 1, Issue 4

December 1, 2023 Community

Content

Winter Campus

Reflecting on a Remarkable Year 

As we approach the end of another calendar year, I want to take a moment to wish all employees a happy holiday season. This time of year is not only a time for celebration and reflection but also an opportunity to express gratitude for the incredible efforts and dedication each of you has shown. 

 The past year has presented us with numerous changes and transitions, and it is truly inspiring to witness the flexibility, adaptability, and unwavering commitment that our university community has demonstrated throughout. 

 I look ahead to the coming year with optimism and excitement for what we can achieve together. As we embrace the opportunities and experiences ahead, let us do so with the same spirit of community and determination that has brought us this far. 

 I want to express my deepest gratitude for your outstanding contributions and wish you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday season filled with joy, warmth, and happiness. 

 Thank you for being an essential part of our UMass Amherst community.  

 Happy holidays to you and yours! 

 —Kevin Kerwood, Interim Vice Chancellor and Chief Human Resources Officer 

 

News You Can Use 

Emergency Closings and Snow-Related Policies and Resources 

With winter approaching, Jeffrey Hescock, executive director of environmental health and safety and emergency management, recommends that all faculty and staff review the following information related to severe weather, including announcements, parking rules, staggered departure procedures, and related time and attendance policies.  

 

Did You Know? 

Changes to the MA Paid Family Medical Leave Act 

A recent legislative change regarding paid family and medical leave (PFML) will have an impact on employees. Individuals who apply for income under the MA PFML act on/after November 1, 2023, may use paid time off to “top off” their PFML income benefits. Learn more here. Or download the Employee’s Family / Medical Leave Request Checklist. 

 

It’s Beneficial 

Finish (or Start) Your Holiday Shopping at the UMass Store 

Did you know that the University of Massachusetts Amherst's official campus store is a non-profit established to serve the campus community, and all proceeds go back to the university to support campus programs? Benefited employees are eligible for a 10 percent discount in person and online at the UMass Store! 

  

Employee Wellness 

Managing the Holiday Blues 

The holidays are upon us, and while this can be a wonderful season, it can also bring increased stress. For some of us, navigating the holidays is one of the most challenging times of the year. 

 Here are some tips for managing the holiday blues, and as you think of ways to take care of yourself, don't forget we're hosting weekly meditation sessions on Wednesdays at noon. Take 15 minutes out of your day to connect with yourself and the UMass community: 

 

Our People, Our Work 

Penn Pritchard (they/them) is the director for education and development within the Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI) and has been with UMass Amherst for over a year and a half. We asked them what they love about working here. Penn said, “I identify strongly as a lifelong learner, and my work with the amazing OEI team provides endless opportunities to learn with and from so many different folks in the UMass community. Being in compassionate, generative dialogue about equity, inclusion, and social justice genuinely fills my cup, so I'm very grateful to be in a role that is so well-aligned with my passions and values.” 

 

Professional Development 

Earn Your Workplace Wellness Learning Certificate with LinkedIn Learning 

LinkedIn Learning is an online library of in-depth courses on subjects ranging from creative tech tools and techniques to business skills, and is available to UMass Amherst faculty and staff at no cost. This certificate covers three distinct areas of workplace well-being: Work-Life Balance, Mental Well-Being, and Cultivating Purpose. You may complete all or some of the modules at your own pace. 

 

Reminder! Flex Work at UMass 

Our Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) offer hybrid or remote work options to enhance staff members’ professional and personal lives. Any staff member with a FWA who has not yet completed the updated flex work form that was introduced this summer should request one here.

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