Kennesaw State University Human Resources newsletter for faculty and staff.
July 2024
THE OWL HR EXCLUSIVE!
Highlights in this issue:
Happiness & Harmony at Empowering U
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High Impact Leaders Program Direct Deposit Fraud Prevention
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Enhancing Recruitment Strategies
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July Well-Being Events
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USG Staff Council Conference 2024
Ken Harmon, keynote at USG Staff Council Conference, presents Happiness Seminar
Ken Harmon, former KSU provost, presents Create More Happiness & Harmony session. Here is a brief excerpt from a previously recorded session on what you can look forward to learning! You don’t want to miss this!
The annual University System of Georgia Staff Council Conference will be held at Kennesaw State University on October 16-17, 2024 . All staff employees of the University System of Georgia are welcome to attend the annual statewide conference!
Please join us in creating an unforgettable experience alongside our colleagues from across the USG. Preregister by September 30, 2024.
The Owl HR Exclusive
2024 High Impact Leaders Program
The High Impact Leaders Program is an interactive cohort designed to equip early to mid- career professionals with essential leadership skills. Participation requires nomination by a dean or cabinet member. If you are interested in this program, please request that your dean or cabinet member submit your nomination to HILP@kennesaw.edu no later than July 31, 2024. Program Highlights: Collaborative learning environment Competing Values Leadership Curriculum Practical, Hands-On Training: - Giving and receiving feedback effectively
Eligibility Criteria: Faculty and Staff: Early to mid-career professionals. Performance: Must have satisfactory performance evaluations. Tenure: Must be with KSU for at least 2 years. Employment Status: Full-time employees.
- Navigating difficult conversations - Handling conflict with confidence - Transitioning from peer to manager Insights from KSU faculty & community leaders
To learn more about the High Impact Leaders Program, please visit our website.
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KSU Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) Update We are pleased to inform you that the 4% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA), capped at $3,000, has now been implemented. This adjustment was made possible through the support of Governor Kemp and the General Assembly. All eligible full-time, regular, benefits-eligible employees working 30 standard hours per week or more, who were actively employed on July 1, 2024, should have now received this adjustment in their pay rate. As previously mentioned, part- time regular employees working less than 30 hours and temporary employees are not eligible for the adjustment. The KSU Human Resources and Payroll teams have diligently reviewed and validated payroll data to ensure accurate processing of these salary adjustments. We believe this COLA will help us continue our efforts to maintain competitive wages for our valued workforce. Thank you for your continued commitment to KSU and the University System of Georgia. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact hr@kennesaw.edu .
The Owl HR Exclusive
Payroll Direct Deposit Fraud Prevention
The USG has noticed an increase in cyber fraud targeting employees and impacting their paychecks. Cybercriminals are using DUO pushes to gain access to employee credentials, allowing them to alter direct deposit and banking information. It is imperative that you do not authenticate any DUO requests that you did not initiate. In late June, USG Information Security implemented a change to OneUSG Connect to better protect employees. Now, a Payroll practitioner must update an employee’s direct deposit information for certain internet-based banks that are more frequently used by cybercriminals. Please be aware that if your pay is misdirected to a fraudulent account due to your own actions, you should report the theft to law enforcement, as KSU cannot issue a second paycheck due to misdirection. (This is the equivalent of your wallet being stolen). If you try to change your direct deposit to a bank that is flagged as high risk, you will receive an error message and be directed to contact Payroll. You will need to verify your identity, likely in-person, with a Payroll practitioner who can then manually update your direct deposit information.
DID YOU KNOW... Tips and Tricks to stay safe
Do not click on embedded links asking you to validate your credentials within OneUSG Connect or your network credentials at KSU. DUO pushes indicate the location from where the request was initiated. If the request comes from a location other than where you are, do not accept it. NEVER authenticate a DUO request that you did not initiate. Be on alert for any emails asking you to take urgent action or that have incorrect spelling or grammar or have an unknown email address. Messages displaying ‘external sender’ should be considered malicious until proven otherwise.
If you have received suspicious communications or clicked on any malicious links report it to abuse@kennesaw.edu immediately.
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Are you interested in improving your leadership and management skills with the added benefit of retaining your high-performing Owl employees and improving their engagement and productivity? HR offers two resources that can do just that depending on your specific departmental needs. IGNITE BETTER TEAMWORK
The CliftonStrengths Assessment is based upon positive psychology which helps to identify an individual's natural talents and strengths, highlighting areas of exceptional performance and potential. The assessment identifies 34 strengths across four domains of how people work together to accomplish goals including Executing, Influencing, Relationship Building and Strategic Thinking. CliftonStrengths Assessment can assist you and your employees on your journey of self- discovery, personal growth, professional development, and leadership success.
The Emergenetics Profile unlocks a person’s preferred ways to approach work and life, which becomes powerful when combined with their colleagues' preferences and considered as part of the whole. With the knowledge of an entire team’s preferences, you can quickly uncover the inherent strengths of the group, determine where gaps may exist and identify a plan to create alignment. The scientifically formulated assessment of Emergenetics combines patterns thinking and behaving that result from both genetic blueprint and life experiences. When you understand how your employees prefer to think and behave, you can create an inclusive, inspiring workplace that attracts, engages and retains top talent through leadership, culture, collaboration, by understanding communication and cognitive contrast.
To learn more about how these offerings can benefit your team, please contact your HRBP to determine the best fit for your department.
The Owl HR Exclusive
Upcoming HR Training
Do you have an idea for a training topic going forward? We want to hear from you! Please free to provide your suggestions to hr@kennesaw.edu with the subject “HR Training”. The Training calendar for July - September 2024 is now available! Click here to view all of our upcoming courses available in-person and online. Upcoming topics include: Understanding the Leave of Absence Process Understanding the TAP Program Transform Your Desktop into a Pathway to Success Planning to Retire? Student Hiring 101 Career Framework
Want the Owl HR Exclusive delivered directly to your mailbox?! Visit our website to join our newsletter list!
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E-Performance Updates:
To better align strategic goal setting with fiscal and academic year reporting, the annual staff ePerformance timeline is shifting from a calendar year review to a fiscal year review. As a result, the next cycle for staff performance reviews will extend through June 30, 2025 . New evaluations are now available in OneUSG and will follow the timeline below:
During this extended review period, which should include Jan 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 , we encourage you to reflect on your accomplishments, set goals, and gather any relevant documentation to ensure a comprehensive and productive review. Thank you for your dedication and commitment to KSU. We appreciate your hard work and look forward to a successful review process.
The Owl HR Exclusive
Wellness Corner
2nd annual EFC Summer Games It’s not too late to JOIN!
One point will be provided per day you attend the EFC, and an additional point will be provided for completing our daily task. The daily task will include an exercise that the EFC staff must watch you complete , this task will be located on the white board upfront. This summer competition will end Friday, August 30 The top 3 will win prizes including bronze, silver, or gold medals . Details Below:
2 points will be provided for any referrals that mention you by name during sign up.
Mitch Palmer is the Employee Wellness and Fitness Manager. He holds a masters degree in Human Performance and is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist as well as an Exercise Physiologist.
The weekly leaderboard will be updated every Monday to showcase who is in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. The leaderboard is located on the pin board by the group fitness area.
For more information on membership options, facility hours, and upcoming events, visit our website or stop by the Employee Fitness Center reception desk. We can't wait to see you there!
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Tell your friends and family!
The Owl HR Exclusive
CAREER CORNER
A national survey by CUPA HR gives us helpful ideas for improving our hiring strategies and showing what makes us a great place to work. About two-thirds of people surveyed are happy with their jobs and would recommend their department and university as good places to work. Most feel a sense of purpose, believe their work is valued, feel safe speaking up, and feel like they belong. Enhancing Recruitment Strategies: Insights from CUPA HR Survey Highlight Kennesaw State University's Strengths
Here are some things employees are especially happy about: Retirement benefits Amount of paid time off Health insurance Sense of purpose in their work Positive relationships with supervisors A safe work environment
These factors, both practical and personal, are crucial for attracting new employees. When talking about Kennesaw State University, it's important to highlight these positive aspects and explain why being part of our community is so meaningful. Emphasizing these values will help us attract great candidates.
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We're Hiring! Kennesaw State University is hiring for the following positions. Know a friend or family member that may be interested in working at KSU? Help us find our next great hire!
Assistant Director, Revenue Enhancement
Senior Project Manager - Organizational Effectivenes
Events Coordinator
Operations Coordinator – Events and Marketing
iTeach Coach
Business Analyst, Finance
For a complete listing of all open positions available at KSU, please visit jobs.kennesaw.edu
The Owl HR Exclusive
PERKS PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
RALPH’S ZUCCA PIZZA
4290 Bells Ferry Rd, Kennesaw, GA (in the Publix Shopping Center )
Features New York-style hand-tossed pizza, salads & sandwiches, along with all of your Italian favorites in a “neighborhood” atmosphere. Enjoy 15% off your food. Simply show your valid KSU ID to receive your discount! Opens daily at 11:30 AM.
SEE MORE PERKS
IT BENEFITS YOU TO KNOW... KSU employees and their families are eligible to receive exclusive savings, offers, and discounts through USG Perks at Work. Planning a trip to Disney this summer? USG Perks at Work has discounts available for tickets, airfare, and accommodations! Check out the offers available to you at perksatwork.com. As an added benefit, you can invite up to five family members to participate.
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July USG Well- Being Events:
General overview of Teachers Retirement System (TRS) of GA benefits, including the benefit formula, sick leave, service purchases, beneficiaries, and plan options. TRS Pre-Retirement Webinar
EAP 101 by Acentra Health Join us for "EAP 101: An Introduction to Employee Assistance Programs," a comprehensive webinar designed to help you understand the benefits of EAP services. Learn about all the benefits, outside of counseling, available to you. Tapping into Calm Join us as we explore some body- centered approaches to stress management. Learn some free, easy, potentially powerful, in-the-moment vagal toning, self-help tools. Stay Cool, Stay Hydrated Staying properly hydrated is vital, especially during the summer months. Discover how proper hydration can significantly impact your health, energy levels, and overall well-being when temperatures soar.
July 3 12pm
July 8 12pm
Sun Safety by Kaiser Permanente
July 16 10am
July 17 11am
Most people are aware of the dangers of too much time in the sun. In today's webinar, you will learn about ultraviolet rays and what you can do to prevent sun damage. Do Yourself a Favor & Become a Better Saver by CAPTRUST Financial Learn the importance of saving for retirement and the benefits of saving through the USG supplemental savings options, how Roth contributions work and how it differs from traditional, pre-tax savings.
July 19 12pm
July 29 12pm
The Owl HR Exclusive
Employee Assistance Program Tip Sheet Overcoming Barriers to Self-Care
Most of us are aware of the importance of practicing self- care, but engaging in these activities can feel completely out of reach or impossible to justify. Individuals who think they don’t need self-care are often the ones that need it most. Here are some ways to reimagine self-care.
1. Self-care activities don’t have to require a lot of time or energy. Setting aside prolonged periods of time or creating the perfect environment to decompress is not feasible for a lot of people. Something is better than nothing. Take advantage of unexpected free time. 2. You’re not putting others last when you put yourself first. You’re doing those around you a favor by engaging in self-care. Lowering stress, reducing irritability, and preventing burnout results in presenting a better version of yourself to others. 3. Self-care doesn’t have to be costly or fancy. Sure, a spa treatment or vacation is great, but there are plenty of free activities to help you reset. Giving yourself ten minutes to watch cute animal videos can be a way of taking care of yourself. 4. Self-care can come in the form of learning to recognize your needs. Take a moment to pause and think, “what is it I’m feeling now and what do I need in this moment”. Identifying your needs and how to fulfill them is a critical part of taking care of yourself. Invest in yourself by taking advantage of no-cost counseling through the Employee Assistance Program. Or speak to a work/life specialist who can find activities in your area that could support your self-care.
Reference: Mahrer, Britt. “Why You Struggle with Self-Care”. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Accessed April 17, 2024 from https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/December-2019/Why-You-Struggle-with-Self-Care
Your Employee Assistance Program Anytime, any day, you have access to mental health professionals available to connect you with free and confidential services and resources to help you be your best. Simply call to get started today.
WEBSITE: usg.mylifeexpert.com Code: USGCares
24/7/365 PHONE: 1.844.243.4440
The contents of this article and referenced websites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the site are for informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance on any information provided by these websites is solely at your own risk. Acentra™ Health is not responsible for the contents of any “off- site” web page referenced from this server. Acentra Health. All rights reserved.
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We are excited to welcome faculty and staff into our offices (Kennesaw ALC 3525 and Marietta Student Center 160) for free professional headshots! There is no need to make an appointment for a professional headshot. Feel free to come by either main office Monday-Friday from 8:30AM-4:30PM with your KSU ID and receive an instant, professional headshot for free! Contact us at 470-578-6555 or career_services@kennesaw.edu with any questions.
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS IN 5 MINUTES!
CAREER PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT
The Owl HR Exclusive
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Did you know...
KSU is forming new Affinity Groups!
Affinity groups are formed around common interests, goals, or characteristics, which can foster a sense of community and belonging among members. They can enhance personal and professional development, provide support, advocate for change, and create a more inclusive and connected community or organization. Interested in starting a group? We are currently accepting proposals for the formation of new Affinity Groups.
KSU TRIVIA GAME
The Owl HR Exclusive
WELCOME NEW KSU OWLS Newly hired KSU employees featured at New Employee Orientation (NEO)
JUNE 3, 2024
Aaron Streimish Amanda Guitar Brian Dascall Cale Padgett Ciara Perez Cody Mashburn Damon Scott Gisela Klanjscek Jasmine Edwards Jazmin Johnson
Joshua Burns Myah Watson Olivia Burns
Oluwayomi Paseda Sanetha Staunton
Sara Adams Scott Boykin Taylor Cuffie Zoe Eldridge
JUNE 10, 2024
Andrea Wesley Angelo Teachout Gaurab Mukherjee Gerson Manuel Rodriguez Kaminx Davis Lauren Bornstein Nathalie Ettzevoglou Nick Adams Oyiwodu Eche Qing Gong Quincy Dawson Ryan Bibby Sabra Davidson
Savannah Parham Stephanie Wilson
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JUNE 17, 2024
Amoi Christian Andrea Bailon Anthony Capomacchia Dawn Gallant Dillon Wolf Donquell Johnson Eric Mahoney Erik Cole
Kevin Mathews Rigoberto Flores Rotrease Regan Sheena Brown Steven Richards Tiauna Bailey-Aouad Tilea Smith #OWLONBOARD
JUNE 24, 2024
Alexandra Cooley Andrew Mills Anna Sandy-Elrod Courtney Gardner Crystal Fernandez David Long Deikyn Moore Emily Powell Forrest Burks Jacob Borg Misty Wright Rebecca Weaver Sasha Cokuslu
The Owl HR Exclusive
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