The event, hosted by Human Resources, was open to all University staff interested in developing their skills in their current roles and plan for future aspirations within the University. As an initiative to celebrate professional development, participants enjoyed multiple networking opportunities, interactive 30-minute workshops, one-on-one career development coaching, and an engagement expo.
“As a newly hired employee, I appreciate an event where I can network and have the opportunity to learn new skills so I can better serve my team,” said Emily Panasowich, assistant athletic director for Events and Community Engagement. “A senior leader from my office invited a group of colleagues to attend a session and we had the opportunity to debrief as a cohort. The fact that a leader in my area stepped up and used this event as a platform, showed me my direct leadership team is truly invested in my career growth.”
The event was the first of its kind and offered a range of opportunities for staff to learn, inspire, and grow. Participants took advantage of asking Human Resources partners and recruiters questions, signed up for employee resource groups, and took free professional headshots.
“HR has placed a heavy focus on efforts dedicated to engaging, developing, and retaining talent within the University,” said Mary Harper Hagan, Vice President for Human Resources. “This event was a great opportunity for our staff to take ownership of their professional career development and learn of the many ways we are here to support them."
“Participating in workshops such as “create your individual development plan,” offered some valuable insight and gave me time to reflect on where I am today,” said Tenji Bernier, business systems analyst for Enterprise Business Solutions. “The session offered a career check-up assessment and provided actionable steps for my goals. I left with the expectation that I must take charge of my own career, but the University has the tools to support me along the way.”
Additionally, the expo offered booths with representatives from across the University to create awareness of staff benefits, professional leadership opportunities, and free online tools.
“Promoting ULearn, the University’s Learning Management System was a popular booth amongst participants,” stated Venkatesh Raju, director of workday configurations for the Enterprise Business Solutions. “With thousands of on-line and live professional development courses, certifications, books and videos available to staff at their fingertips, each participant left with a curriculum to explore.”
HR plans to host an event on the medical campus in spring 2020. To continue your journey, register for leadership and professional development programs offered by HR’s Talent and Organizational Development (TOD) team. Click here to get a glimpse of what’s offered at the U.
