HR Intercom March 2024

Discontinuing Time Off to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine Policy

Effective April 7, 2024, consistent with the expiration of the state’s mandate, the University will discontinue its Time Off to Receive a COVID-19 Vaccine Policy (#329) as well as HRMS time reporting codes “CVA” and “CVS”, which were previously used in conjunction with Policy #329. The University encourages employees to receive the COVID-19 vaccine and all boosters, and will continue to offer employees the ability to receive these vaccinations along with the flu vaccine on-site through our annual vaccination programs. Visit the COVID-19 Resource page for ongoing updates related to COVID-19 guidelines and support.

Out-of-State Work

The Office for Out of State Employment has a new resource on the HR website, where you can learn more about what steps to take if you are considering an out-of-state arrangement for a current or prospective employee in your department. The University’s Policy on Work Locations Outside of New York State or the United States (#132) outlines the guidelines and process for managers who are considering out-of-state work for an employee. This resource is designed to help managers navigate an out-of-state work request along with provide answers to frequently asked questions.

Volunteer and Unpaid Internships

Volunteer and unpaid internship opportunities provide valuable experiences but must be managed closely to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Generally, no volunteer may perform work that is also performed by a paid University employee, and volunteers should not provide direct patient care or work in a lab setting. Internship opportunities should be tied to an educational program that requires the experience for a program/degree completion. Additionally, those who have completed their degree program are typically no longer eligible for an unpaid internship and their efforts would be considered work for pay. For questions about volunteer or internship opportunities, please see the Use of Volunteers policy or contact your HR Business Partner.

Getting Ready for myURHR: New Departure Survey

Feedback from faculty and staff is important to the University at all stages of an employee’s career. When myURHR is live, the University will institute a new, optional departure survey in Workday for employees who voluntarily leave their positions. Visit the myURHR Latest Updates webpage to learn about the survey, including a tip for managers to help increase the response rate.

Planning for the Total Solar Eclipse

It’s time to start planning for the much-anticipated eclipse happening Monday, April 8, which will impact many factors like staffing, traffic, and more. This once-in-a-lifetime event is sure to generate questions from your staff. The University’s Total Solar Eclipse website is your go-to resource for the big day, featuring information and frequently asked questions.

‘The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People’ Workshop

In this two-day class, participants will learn how to improve performance and results with behaviors that lead to the highest levels of effectiveness and teamwork. By adopting new paradigms, principles, and skills, individuals can increase levels of trust and initiative, and focus on key priorities and effective communication. Participants will also gain access to additional online courses and microlearning through the Franklin Covey All-Access Impact Portal. Dates for 2024 are Tuesday and Wednesday, April 23 and 24; Thursday and Friday, July 18 and 19; and Wednesday and Thursday, October 23 and 24. Learn more and register online; space is limited.

Arrange childcare for the Total Solar Eclipse

Many schools are closed on Monday, April 8 for the total solar eclipse. We know that planning for events like these can present challenges. Eligible faculty and staff have access to Subsidized Backup Care through Care.com when there is a temporary disruption in normal care arrangements for children or adults. Find more information on the HR website and start your request today.

What’s Your Savings Strategy?

Faculty and staff interested in learning more about saving for retirement can set up an in-person or virtual meeting with a TIAA consultant. The consultations are offered at no additional cost and are intended to assist you with designing a plan to meet your individual financial needs in retirement. Schedule your one-on-one consultation online or by calling (800) 410-6497.

Life Insurance Beneficiary Information

You may view or change your life insurance beneficiary information online at any time by logging into HRMS and clicking on “Securian Financial.” If you do not name a beneficiary, policy benefits will be paid out in a predetermined order of priority.

Fall Tuition Reimbursement Reminder

To ensure timely tuition reimbursement, proof of tuition cost, proof of payment, and proof of successful course completion need to be received by the Office of Total Rewards via email no later than 90 days following course completion. For more information, please visit the HR website.

Play March’s Well-U 2024 Bingo

Each month in HR Intercom, Well-U will suggest three wellness options to help you complete the Well-U 2024 Bingo board. Once you earn Bingo (by filling in a full row in any direction), use the QR code in the center square to email Well-U. Please attach a photo of your completed Bingo card and include your name, employee ID number, and interoffice mailbox (or home address) to receive your prize.

1. For the square labeled “Subscribe to or forward a friend the Weekly Wellness newsletter” – Sign up for Well-U’s weekly newsletter filled with helpful wellness tips, flavorful recipes, event links, and more.
2. For the square labeled “Attend a Health Bites Session”— Sign up for a lecture on Minimalism on Tuesday, April 9 at noon.
3. For the square labeled “Bring a healthy snack to share with coworkers” – Talk with your team and bring in a healthy break room snack.

For more information on Well-U offerings, check out the Well-U website or email Well-U with any questions.

Note: some programs require eligibility.

Upcoming Well-U events