April 20, 2022

Responding to change

The world of work is facing multiple challenges in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and Working at UD is here to assist departments make the best, informed decisions about how to proceed in uncertain times. Last month’s newsletter shared a webpage spotlighting a variety of tools to help employees and supervisors evolve their working arrangements in accordance with UD Policy.

Another resource is a recent Undeniably Well Podcast, entitled "Working with Work Arrangements." with hosts Ryan Shuler and Beth Finkle, associate director and director of Employee Health & Wellbeing, that offer tangible steps and resources for teams as they move forward.

Working at UD wants to know what you’re doing to encourage teamwork and ensure office spirit. Share your success stories to inspire others on campus. Please take a moment to complete this survey and send a photo of your team or your work area so that we can share it on social media and on our websites.

News you need

Benefits Open Enrollment: May 2-18

The 2022 flexible benefits open enrollment period begins May 2 and runs through May 18. During this time, benefit-eligible employees may review or change their benefits online, including adding or removing dependents, changing coverage for health, dental or vision insurance, or changing to a different level of disability and/or life insurance. This year we will be hosting Zoom information sessions and a virtual Benefits and Wellbeing Fair. Learn more.

Changes to UD retirement criteria, Rule of 80

Effective July 1, 2022, the University of Delaware retirement eligibility criteria will change. The new criteria, known as the Rule of 80, require that age and service years combined must equal 80 for employees to be eligible for the University’s retirement benefits. Minimum age and service criteria apply and are detailed on the Retirement page of the HR website.

I Heart UD Giving Day: May 4, 2022

Get ready to show and spread your love for UD during I Heart UD Giving Day. More than 125 fundraising projects showcase the innovative and collaborative passions of students, faculty, staff and alumni. Together, our UD community can make a lasting impact for current and future generations of Blue Hens. Join your colleagues on The Green from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Wednesday, May 4, for our pop-up campus event (if you’re on campus) or meet up virtually. Snap a photo of your team and post it on social media, using #IHeartUD and #WorkingatUD. Your team will be entered to win some I Heart UD Giving Day swag for participating!! Learn more.

Employee Assistance Program

Our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is now being provided through ComPsych® GuidanceResources®. This is a free program available exclusively for State of Delaware Group Health Plan non-Medicare members and their dependents. Those not eligible to enroll in the Group Health Plan will have access until the COVID-19 pandemic has ended. EAP can help with a wide variety of work and life issues.

This email is approved by Melissa L. Bard, Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer