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December 17, 2018

Human Resources News & Information

Greetings,

I am incredibly excited to be a part of the University of Delaware and work with you as we continue advancing toward unparalleled academic excellence in education, research and service. I could not have come at a better time in the University’s history! I have already been so encouraged by the passion and drive I’ve experienced in just the few short weeks that I’ve been on campus.

I look forward to leading the Human Resources team and partnering with you to foster operational excellence and move the University’s vision forward.

Warm wishes,

Wayne Gurthrie signature

Wayne Guthrie, Vice President for Human Resources

News you need

Holiday schedule

The University’s holiday break begins for faculty and staff on Dec. 22. University offices generally will be closed through Tuesday, Jan. 1, reopening on Wednesday, Jan. 2. Learn more about adjusted hours and special activities at campus facilities and offices during winter break.

Performance appraisals

The 2019 performance appraisal cycle will begin mid-January. Instructions will be coming soon. The annual appraisal covers the time period from Feb. 1 of the previous year through Jan. 31 of the current year. For more information please review the Performance Management Overview. Employee development resources are available in ConnectingU on the HR Atlas under Employee Relations & Performance.

Delaware sexual harassment law

The State of Delaware has signed legislation HB 360 into law effective Jan. 1, 2019. The new law offers Delaware workers broader protections against sexual harassment than those found at the federal level. Please review the State of Delaware information sheet for more details.

Minimum wage increase

The state of Delaware minimum wage is increasing to $8.75 per hour effective January 1, 2019. Employees under the minimum will automatically be adjusted to the new minimum rate. Departments do not need to complete a JED form. See the State of Delaware website for more information.

FYI

Retirement workshops and information booth

TIAA will be hosting one-hour retirement workshops on the Newark campus on Thursday, Jan. 17. Session topics include Getting a head start: a step-by-step overview of your plan; and Tomorrow in focus: saving for your ideal retirement. TIAA will also host a general information booth on these days for questions and assistance with accounts, no appointment necessary. Learn more and register for a workshop.

United Way employee campaign

It’s not too late to contribute to the 2018 United Way employee fundraising campaign at the University of Delaware. United Way of Delaware (UWDE) supports more than 100 agencies that provide early education success, college readiness and financial stability. Get involved by volunteering or donating to UD’s fundraising efforts. The campaign closes Friday, Dec. 21.
Learn more.

Employee Development

Team workshops

Did you know that you can schedule employee development workshops for your team or department? For example, with the annual performance appraisal nearing an end, we can present any of our sessions on setting goals and evaluating performance to your group. Send an email to request customized training.

Work-life

Faculty & staff appreciation basketball game

Come out and support your women’s basketball team as they take on Maryland on Thursday, Dec. 20 at 3 p.m. Tickets for faculty and staff are free, and all UD employees can purchase $1 hot dogs at the game! Sign up for your two complimentary game tickets, good for you and a guest, by Dec. 20 at noon. Tickets will be available at the will call window outside The Bob Carpenter Center on game day (box office opens at 2 p.m.).

A healthy you in 2019

Thinking about making fitness part of your New Year’s resolution? University employees, retirees and spouses have access to the employee fitness center, located in the Carpenter Sports Building (CSB). Consider a personal fitness assessment or personal training. Discounted packages and exercise classes are available for winter, and you can use your wellness dollars to purchase these services. What’s more, Employee Health and Wellbeing is offering Free Fitness Classes through Dec. 21. To learn more, visit Employee Health and Wellbeing or read the UDaily story on UD Recreation options.

Employee Assistance Program

Visit this month’s Health Advocate Member newsletter newsletter for helpful articles including information on how to stay healthy for the holidays, letting go of perfectionism and having a mindful holiday.


In keeping with the University of Delaware's commitment to a diverse and inclusive campus, Human Resources works in close collaboration with the Vice Provost for Diversity and the Office of Equity and Inclusion to ensure our services meet the needs of our diverse community.

This message has been approved by Wayne Guthrie, Vice President for Human Resources