Now is the perfect time to take a step back and plan for your best year yet at the University of Miami. Explore this list of 10 ways employees can take full advantage of what the University has to offer.
1. Take care of yourself and earn money.
The University’s Well ’Canes incentive program offers a myriad of opportunities to earn up to $300 from participating in wellness events. From health and wellness webinars, to an annual health assessment and participating in the Dolphins Challenge Cancer event, there are nearly 40 incentive opportunities available.
2. Create (or join) a University of Miami ERG community.
Employees across the University have access to join or create an Employee Resource Group at any time. Referred to ERGs for short, these are collaborative networks of employees organized around inclusion, professional development, engagement and collaboration, and community outreach.
3. Stay healthy.
Schedule preventive care appointments, which include your annual physical, cancer screenings, and more, for you and your family members and keep your health in check. Preventive care services are covered at 100 percent for employees enrolled in the UM/Aetna insurance plan when visiting in-network providers. In addition, stay up-to-date with the latest Covid-19 vaccine recommendations and requirements. Learn more here.
4. Get the most out of your retirement plan.
Remember that the University matches your voluntary 403(b) contributions dollar-for-dollar up to 5 percent of pay. Learn more about the University’s retirement plans.
5. Continue learning.
From professional development opportunities to tuition remission benefits, there are numerous ways to continue your education at the University. Keep up with the latest Talent and Organizational Development course offerings by reviewing the weekly listings in HR Insider. Faculty can learn more about professional development opportunities here. Consider taking your education to the next level by applying to a University of Miami program.
6. Celebrate wins.
Inspired by a colleague? Take a minute to send them kudos. The 60 seconds you take can inspire someone else to do the same, and it never hurts to pay it forward. Check out the University’s Thank a ’Cane tool.
7. Get involved.
Whatever your interest, it is likely that the University offers a way for you to get involved and help others. Here are some ideas to get started: Passionate about cancer research? Run, walk, or ride in support of Dolphins Challenge Cancer. Inspired by our students? Consider becoming a mentor through the Empower Me First program, or join the Career Champions Network through Toppel. Interested in the latest Diversity and Inclusion programming? Sign up for the D&I listserv for faculty and staff members. Care about the environment? Check out programs and resources available through GreenU and the Office of Sustainability.
8. Take care of your mental health.
Things haven’t exactly been easy the past 22 months. In addition to the mental health benefits offered through the University’s health plan through Carisk Behavioral Health, the Faculty and Staff Assistance Program offers webinars to all employees year-round to support your mental health and well-being. Mental health is also closely tied to physical health. Become a member at the Herbert Wellness Center or the UHealth Wellness and Fitness Center and take advantage of the employee discount through the University’s SHAPE-UP program.
9. Cheer on our student-athletes.
Throughout the year, Hurricanes Athletics offers University of Miami faculty and staff members discounts to attend various sporting events and support our student athletes. To view the latest ticket offers for employees, login or create an account using your University of Miami email address here.
10. Have fun and connect.
The University of Miami workforce comprises physicians, researchers, nurses, IT professionals, artists, creators, and various other professions with varying interests and passions. With more than 20,000 faculty and staff members, the University community is vast and each member has something to contribute. Stay connected and celebrate your University of Miami experiences through Life@TheU on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.
Bookmark this list and check back throughout the year to check on your progress. Tried something new, or found something not listed here? Reach out, or tag us, and share about your experience using the hashtags #lifeattheU and #workingattheU.
