A Note from the Past President

Dear UMB Staff,

I've recently been reflecting on the core values of our institution, particularly the values of Respect and Integrity. In upholding Respect and Integrity, it's important to continually work towards improving the atmosphere on our campus, striving to create an environment where each of us takes responsibility for our actions and endeavors, aligning our actions with virtues of empathy, understanding, and compassion. It's easy to get caught up in the daily hustle and bustle, focusing solely on how our actions benefit ourselves without considering the impact they have on those around us. However, this month I challenge myself, and you, to take this opportunity to explore ways in which we can ensure that everyone is not only heard but also treated with compassion and kindness. It's through these small acts of understanding and solidarity that we can foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of our UMB community.

Sincerely,

Greg Brightbill
UMB Staff Senate Past President

Save the Date for the Spring Campus Cleanup

The spring campus cleanup will take place on Tuesday, April 9 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. More details will follow as the event draws nearer.

This event is hosted by the Office of Sustainability, Environmental Services, and Staff Senate.

Staff Senate January 2024 Retreat Recap

On Thursday, January 10, the Staff Senate gathered together for a retreat at the BioPark. The day started off with a presentation and discussion led by Stacey Rose, UMB's inaugural Core Values Program Director. Participants discussed ideas for further perpetuating the core values across campus, and the Staff Senate will be forming an ad-hoc committee to discuss this further.

After lunch, the retreat continued into the afternoon with a rousing game of Family Feud followed by other activities. For many Senators, this was the first time they had met face-to-face. It was great to come together in-person to get to know each other, network, share ideas, and have some friendly competition. The Senate looks forward to continuing to serve UMB staff for the rest of this academic year and for many years to come.

President's Panel on Politics and Policy

“Don’t Believe the Hype: Cities Are Alive and Well”
A Conversation with Greg Lindsay

Feb. 22, 8 a.m.
Elm Ballrooms, SMC Campus Center

The UMB President’s Panel on Politics and Policy on Feb. 22 will feature globalization, urbanization, and innovation expert Greg Lindsay, who will discuss the future of cities and urban communities.

Breakfast will be served at 8 a.m., and the discussion will begin at 8:30.

Register to attend using this link.

R.A.D. Training

Sign up for Basic Rape Aggression Defense (R.A.D.) by visiting umbsafe.org/RAD.

Basic R.A.D. is a free 10-hour, hands-on course designed to emphasize confidence and self-discipline while developing and enhancing self-defense options.

• March 26 to April 30
• Tuesdays and Thursdays
• Noon to 1:30 p.m. or 5 to 6:30 p.m. 
• Location TBD
• Space is limited to the first 25 attendees and five alternates per time slot

March 8, 26, and 28: Save the Dates for Future of Work Town Halls

The Future of Work Task Force 2023 Committee Report identified several recommendations on how the University should support its existing workforce and plan for the future. Task force recommendations and next steps will be discussed at several town halls in March. Town halls will offer in-person and virtual attendance options.

Friday, March 8
8 a.m. - 10 a.m.
School of Dentistry, Room G307

Tuesday, March 26
8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
SMC Campus Center, Elm Room 208A

Thursday, March 28
11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
School of Law, Room 106

Register for a session using this link.

Spring Service Fair

Passionate about service? We're bringing the opportunities to you! Join us for UMB's Spring Service Fair and with Baltimore's local non-profits and community-based organizations that share UMB's Core Values. All agencies attending the fair will showcase volunteering or service opportunities .This is a free event for UMB students, staff, and faculty.

The event will take place Tuesday, Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the SMC Campus Center.

Register for the event using this link.
 

Performance Review Prep Mini-Conference

This dynamic conference will take place on Thursday, February 29 from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and will offer valuable insights and practical tools for navigating performance reviews. The conference is free and open to all USM employees. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your approach to performance reviews!

All workshops will be recorded and available to registrants. We encourage you to register even if you cannot attend. 

Register to attend using this link.

Contribute to Public Safety at UMB

Safety concerns? Notice suspicious activity on campus? Immediately report all incidents to UMB Police and Public Safety at 410-706-6882. Your call helps to address security needs, provide resources to vulnerable populations, and support victims and/or witnesses. Trust your gut – your information could help keep our community safe. In an emergency, always call 911.

Proposed MTA Commuter Bus Service Changes

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has projected a $3.3 billion deficit in its FY24-29 capital program and is thus proposing the discontinuation of several routes and modifications to other routes. If implemented, these changes would be implemented on Monday, July 1, 2024.

If you are an MTA commuter, visit the MTA website to learn more about the proposed changes and register for an upcoming public hearing to have your testimony heard.

Please reach out to Jill Hamilton in the School of Pharmacy for more information or to get more involved.