Staff Assembly Considering Wellness Program, Changes to Staff Excellence Awards Timing

UC Merced Staff Assembly held its most recent general meeting Oct. 17. Here is a recap of topics that were discussed:

• The Staff Excellence Awards committee is currently looking for volunteers. The committee will be making improvements to the Staff Excellence Award program this year, including revamping the program’s timing for submissions and clarifying nomination requirements. Those interested in participating on this committee can contact Staff Assembly Vice President David Ellington.
   
• Human Resources proposed a partnership with Staff Assembly on managing a wellness program for the campus. Under the proposal, Staff Assembly would develop a committee composed of staff representatives with a passion for wellness. The committee would have some authority and autonomy over the program’s management with the campus’s Human Resources office providing oversight. Staff Assembly is reaching out to select staff members to determine their interest in the committee and will follow up with a staff survey to determine the needs of the campus if we decide to move forward with the proposal. Staff members who are interested in participating on a wellness committee can contact Staff Assembly President Pam Taylor.
   
• UC Merced’s United Way Campaign is gearing up and expected to kick off in early 2017. The steering committee met last month volunteers are still needed to assist with the campaign. The United Way Campaign provides a great opportunity to give back to the community and gain experience with fundraising. If you are interested in participating on the committee, please contact Co-Chair for Fundraising Jeff Porto.

Staff Assembly will hold its next monthly meeting Monday, Nov. 21, from noon to 2 p.m. in the Granite Room at the Mondo Building, 1715 Canal Street, Merced. Staff members who are unable to attend the meeting in person may participate remotely using Zoom, UC’s new conferencing system:

1.      Participate in the meeting using the following link: https://ucmerced.zoom.us/j/2092282253
2.      Once the application downloads and installs on your device, enter the Zoom Meeting ID: 209 228 2253.