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Working at UD News and Information

Nov. 16, 2020

News you need

Flexible Spending Account enrollment ends today

Open enrollment for 2021 Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) ends today, Nov. 16. This program enables eligible employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to cover out-of-pocket health care and dependent care expenses. Prior participants must re-enroll. Enroll.

Reduction in hours

As we approach the holiday season, a reminder that the 5% reduction in salary, effective Nov. 1, 2020, equates to approximately nine days of leave to be used over the next eight months of fiscal year 2021. Information about the 5% reduction, including how to use and record the reduced operation days, can be found on the COVID-19 POLICY AND PROGRAM UPDATES page.

FYI

Talent Development workshops

Talent Development certificate programs feature UD-specific information about effectively managing the work of others, conducting HR activities and navigating UD financial systems. These resources help employees get the information they need to succeed and thrive in their current and future roles. The Talent Development website has more information, and you can register there for December class offerings.

TIAA virtual counseling sessions

Access virtual TIAA counseling by phone or on any device and learn about your retirement savings, managing debt and your investment strategy. Meetings are highly secure and private. Schedule a virtual counseling session.

Electronic W-2 forms

Employees may now elect to receive their 2020 W-2 forms electronically. Employers must comply with specific IRS regulations to use electronic W-2's, and employees must provide their consent to receive an electronic W-2 instead of a paper copy. Learn more or review your W-2 Electronic Consent Form.

Grateful to be Blue Hen Strong

In this season of reflection and gratitude, add this to the list of things to be grateful for: Members of the UD community support each other. Since the Blue Hen Strong Fund was created in May, 3,326 donors have contributed $448,785, providing immediate help for students overcoming financial hardships and emergencies. We are thankful for the generosity of the Blue Hen Family. Learn more about the fund from this article written earlier this year.

Work-life

Working at UD wants to hear from you

Let’s be completely honest, folks, it has been a heck of a year! Working at UD knows how much the students and being on campus mean to you. Having to leave campus and switch gears to working from home hasn’t been easy. The struggle is real, and we are with you. Your input is needed. Let us know what you need to feel supported and stay motivated and encouraged by Dec. 18, and someone from our team will reach out.

Employee Assistance Program

Effective Jan. 1, 2021, the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will be provided through ComPsych® GuidanceResources®. This is a FREE program available exclusively for State of Delaware Group Health Plan non-Medicare members and their dependents. For EAP and Work Life needs through Dec. 31, 2020, please visit our current EAP provider HealthAdvocate.

Social Justice Circles open to all

UD community members interested in participating in a small-group, discussion-based exploration of social justice ideas and issues are welcome to sign up for the Social Justice Circles Program. The program is sponsored by the Office of Equity and Inclusion, and questions can be directed to Adam Foley.

Delaware Basketball Virtual Season Ticket Packages

The Blue Hens Virtual Season Ticket Package offers fans the opportunity to support Delaware and enjoy exclusive content from gamedays this season. Packages at $49 include a fan cutout, a commemorative printed ticket, exclusive insider access, digital gameday programs and chances to win gameday giveaways. While Delaware Athletics remains hopeful to host some fans in person this season, this virtual package gives you the opportunity to show your support for our Blue Hens throughout the season. Learn more and purchase tickets.

Future Hens Club memberships available

The Future Hens Club--the official Kids Club of Delaware Athletics--is open to Blue Hens ages 12 and under. Members receive an official membership card, giveaway pack including a T-shirt, a monthly e-newsletter, and invitations to special events. Memberships are $20 per child and UD Faculty and Staff members get $5 off one membership. Learn more and register.

That’s Interesting: Behind the Scenes with UDairy

Have you ever wondered how UDairy’s delicious ice cream is made or how they come up with new flavors? Join Employee Health and Wellbeing for “That’s Interesting! Behind the Scenes with UDairy,” featuring Jennifer Rodammer, UDairy plant manager, for a look at how our favorite creamery operates. Register.

Water Cooler Chats

Water Cooler Chats are virtual spaces designed for building connection through casual conversations and for geeking out with new friends. Meet the Employee Health and Wellbeing Ambassadors at the "water cooler" for a 30-minute virtual meet-up every Friday at noon. No registration required. Join us in our open zoom room.

On Demand wellbeing resources

Employee Health and Wellbeing has compiled our fall semester workshops on mindfulness and meditation and fitness classes. The On Demand recordings page offers the chance to engage or revisit these wellbeing and self care programs.

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This email is approved by Jared Aupperle, Interim Vice President for Human Resources