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Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities
ENHANCED SUPERVISION PROGRAM (ESP)
(upcoming events for supervisors only)
ESP:Â HealthEU for Supervisors
Wednesday, February 19, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Facilitator: Anu Räisänen, PhD, Director of HealthEU
During this learning event, you will learn about HealthEU, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ’s wellness and well-being initiative. We will explore the resources, educational tools and services the HealthEU initiative offers to support your well-being as a supervisor and your team. We will also discuss ideas for how HealthEU offerings can be expanded to support ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ employees’ active pursuit of wellness and well-being across the six dimensions of well-being: social, purpose, emotional, financial, community and physical. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 19th ESP
ESP: Meetings That Matter – Maximizing Time and Impact (first offering)
Thursday, March 13, 12:00-1:15 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Facilitator: Erika C. Lopina, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology
In this workshop, participants will learn the art and science of leading effective meetings that drive productivity and engagement. We will cover key topics such as setting clear objectives, managing time efficiently, fostering inclusive participation, and utilizing tools for follow-up actions. Through interactive activities and discussions, staff will gain practical skills to improve meeting structures, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance collaboration within their teams. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with techniques to ensure their meetings are efficient and impactful. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
ESP: Meetings That Matter – Maximizing Time and Impact (second offering)
Thursday, April 17, 12:00-1:15 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Facilitator: Erika C. Lopina, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology
In this workshop, participants will learn the art and science of leading effective meetings that drive productivity and engagement. We will cover key topics such as setting clear objectives, managing time efficiently, fostering inclusive participation, and utilizing tools for follow-up actions. Through interactive activities and discussions, staff will gain practical skills to improve meeting structures, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance collaboration within their teams. By the end of the workshop, participants will be equipped with techniques to ensure their meetings are efficient and impactful. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Overview of the Enhanced Supervision Program (ESP)
³Ò´Ç²¹±ô:ÌýTo celebrate, encourage, and support all supervisors to build a healthy, inclusive, skilled, and effective workforce. The series will offer adaptable trainings for all supervisors of employees, while at the same time enhancing and standardizing supervisory training. Format: A variety of learning modes of delivery will be utilized including face-to-face, virtual, blended learning, coaching, etc. The expectation is that campus supervisors of staff and faculty will participate in ESP programs this year and complete the questions on the ESP Preparation Form in consultation with their own supervisor. Supervisors should also list and discuss their participation in ESP on their annual performance appraisal. Lunch is provided to registered attendees.
CAMPUSWIDE PROGRAMS
(upcoming events open to all faculty & staff)
Personal Development Planning Workshop Lunch & Learn (Zoom)
Thursday, February 6, 3:30-4:30 p.m. – Zoom
As we begin 2025, so begins a new year of planning and personal and professional goal setting. With the advent of PageUp on campus, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ employees now have the opportunity to include personal development goals, or goals that are less about achieving a particular work-metric and more about helping individuals grow their competence in areas like conflict management, communication, assertiveness, and so on. This workshop, led by Dr. Chris Leupold, Isabella Cannon Professor of Leadership and Interim Consultant to OLPD, will introduce attendees to the Development FIRST model of individual development, a model that combines personal insight, targeted and personalized goal setting, and action steps to enhance one’s capability. Using a guided approach, participants will work real time to craft their own personal development plans. This workshop will be conducted via Zoom; link is https://elon.zoom.us/my/cleupold
Register for February 6th Zoom
Personal Development Planning Workshop Lunch & Learn (Zoom)
Monday, February 10, 2:00-3:00 p.m. – Zoom
As we begin 2025, so begins a new year of planning and personal and professional goal setting. With the advent of PageUp on campus, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ employees now have the opportunity to include personal development goals, or goals that are less about achieving a particular work-metric and more about helping individuals grow their competence in areas like conflict management, communication, assertiveness, and so on. This workshop, led by Dr. Chris Leupold, Isabella Cannon Professor of Leadership and Interim Consultant to OLPD, will introduce attendees to the Development FIRST model of individual development, a model that combines personal insight, targeted and personalized goal setting, and action steps to enhance one’s capability. Using a guided approach, participants will work real time to craft their own personal development plans. This workshop will be conducted via Zoom; link is https://elon.zoom.us/my/cleupold
Register for February 10th Zoom
Sustainability ERG –Â Design Thinking for Sustainability
Tuesday, February 11, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – Center for Design Thinking (ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Town Center, Third Floor)
In this Design Thinking workshop, participants will explore the intersection of personal and professional sustainability through the design thinking process. Working collaboratively, we’ll tackle the question: ‘How might we foster personal and professional sustainable behavior change on an individual level to drive systems change?’. This event will be held in the Center for Design Thinking, which is on the third floor of ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Town Center (above Pandora’s). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 11th Sustainability ERG
Latinx/Hispanic ERG –Â Social
Tuesday, February 11, 12:15-1:15 p.m. – El Centro Kitchen
The Latinx/Hispanic ERG welcomes faculty/staff members to our February social gathering. New employees are more than welcome to attend! Join us in the El Centro Kitchen on Tuesday, February 11th, at 12:15 p.m. for some food and drinks on us. Come and go as you please.
Register for February 11th Latinx/Hispanic ERG
OnTrack Budgeting Basics How-To
Wednesday, February 12, 10:00-11:00 a.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
This session, led by Tom Langland, Senior Budget Accountant, is open to anyone who is involved in budget management across campus. We will cover how to access and review OnTrack Budget to Actual accounts, what account numbers signify, the different sources of funding that are shown, and how to prepare and submit Expense Correction, Budget Revision, and Transfer of Funds forms. There will be time for open-ended questions about budgeting as well. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office).
Register for February 12th How-To
Supervisors of Students ERG – NACE Competencies & Reflection
Wednesday, February 12, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Join us for an engaging session on NACE Competencies and Reflection with Brooke Buffington, Assistant Vice President for the Student Professional Development Center (SPDC)! Brooke will highlight the key career-ready skills employers value – like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving – and share practical ways to help your student employees develop them. You’ll leave with simple, effective strategies to guide students in reflecting on their experiences and showcasing their skills in resumes, interviews, and beyond. Whether you’re new to supervision or have years of experience, this session will strengthen your ability to support student success. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 12th Supervisors of Students ERG
Global Connections ERG – Gathering at Oak House
Wednesday, February 12, 4:30-6:00 p.m. – Oak House
The Global Connections ERG invites you to join us for our first gathering of the semester on February 12th, 4:30-6:00 p.m. at the Oak House. This is a great chance to relax, connect with colleagues, and enjoy a beverage together. One drink per registered attendee is on us.
Global Connections is an Employee Resource Group (ERG) that creates an inclusive space for all faculty and staff interested in supporting and learning about international identities and global engagement. The group fosters community building and professional development, organizing events that focus on networking, education, and personal and professional growth. Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity!
Register for February 12th Global Connections ERG
Employees with Children ERG – Parenting Through Ages/Stages
Thursday, February 13, 12:15-1:15 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Parenting children of every age brings with it a unique set of challenges. Join us for a conversation about strategies and resources to help us get through the terrible twos, the precocious sixes, the angsty teen years, and more. Parents of older children, please come and share your hard-earned wisdom! Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 13th Employees With Children ERG
Catholic ERG – February Gathering at Oak House
Tuesday, February 18, 5:00-6:30 p.m. – Oak House
Join the Catholic ERG for fellowship and community as we discuss connections between our faith lives and our roles at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ through the lend of Scripture. One drink per registered attendee is on us. All are welcome!
Register for February 18th Catholic ERG
Amazing Admins ERG – How to Be a “Lazy Genius”: Learning to Name What Matters, Personally & Professionally
Thursday, February 20, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Based on the book by Kendra Adachi, the New York Times Bestselling author, The Lazy Genius Way is a collection of principles to help people “be a genius about the things that matter, and lazy about the things that don’t.” She is an advocate for compassionate time management and using unique approaches to combat the busy culture that we all find ourselves wrapped up in, both in the workplace and in our personal lives. Her principles have helped many reframe the way they approach work, task lists, and general outlook on being a productive adult. Join presenter Mariann King for an informative session on some of the most impactful principles and learn how to connect these principles to your daily work and life! Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 20th Amazing Admins ERG
API ERG – Community Lunch at Med Deli
Friday, February 21, 12:30-1:45 p.m. – Med Deli
Join the API ERG for a community lunch at Med Deli from 12:30-1:45 p.m. on Friday, February 21st. We’ll catch up and enjoy lunch together. All are welcome, and we can’t wait to see you there!
Register for February 21st API ERG
Effective Communication Strategies Lunch & Learn
Tuesday, February 25, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Learn the principles and practices of effective communication, including active listening, clarity, and adaptability, to achieve meaningful outcomes in any setting. This session will be led by Dr. Cara Lucia, Associate Professor, Department of Sport Management, and is the first of a three-part series on communication. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 25th Lunch & Learn
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Alumni ERG – Volunteer with the Alumni ERG!
Thursday, February 27, 8:30-10:00 a.m. – ACAC, 206 N Fisher St, Burlington
Join us to volunteer with fellow alumni fac/staff to support ACAC (Allied Churches of Alamance County), whose mission is to prevent and end homelessness and food insecurity. We’ll prepare a meal and sort food donations. Look forward to making an impact in our community together!
Location: ACAC, 206 N Fisher St, Burlington, NC 27217
**ACAC is an ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Community Partner so you can use your volunteer hours to cover this time.
Wear an ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ t-shirt to show you’re Team Phoenix!
Register for February 27th ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Alumni ERG
Social Media ERG – The State of Social Media
Thursday, February 27, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
The last couple of months have been whiplash for social media. And if you haven’t been paying as close attention, that’s okay because Associate Director of Social Media Communications, Lauryn Polo has. Join us for a session about what you may have missed. And bring your questions like: ‘What’s going on with TikTok?’, ‘What’s going on with Meta?’, ‘Are there new tools for us to use?’, ‘Where should we be posting now?’. Lauryn will do her best to answer all of your questions with the most up-to-date information. We look forward to seeing you! Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for February 27th Social Media ERG
Christian ERG – Verse & Vision Canvas
Thursday, February 27, 2:00-3:00 p.m. – Moseley Center 217
Join us for our Verse & Vision event, where we’ll each create a collage centered around our spiritual goals and our focus on God. Like a vision board, we’ll use scripture to explore what the Bible says about who we are, our future, and our purpose. See your future through God’s eyes as we reflect on His promises and guidance for our lives.
Register for February 27th Christian ERG
Fitness ERG –Â Pickleball Fun
Thursday, February 27, 4:00-5:00 p.m. – South Campus Gym
Ready to have a blast on the court? Join us for an all-levels pickleball session at South Campus! Whether you’re new to the game or looking to sharpen your skills, we’ll have fun learning the rules, strategies, and some of the sneaky tricks of pickleball. You’ll get your heart rate up and meet new friends while enjoying this fast-paced, social sport. Don’t have a paddle? No worries! We’ve got you covered with paddles available for use. Grab your energy and let’s get playing – everyone is welcome!
Register for February 27th Fitness ERG
OnTrack Budgeting Basics How-To
Wednesday, March 12, 10:00-11:00 a.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
This session, led by Tom Langland, Senior Budget Accountant, is open to anyone who is involved in budget management across campus. We will cover how to access and review OnTrack Budget to Actual accounts, what account numbers signify, the different sources of funding that are shown, and how to prepare and submit Expense Correction, Budget Revision, and Transfer of Funds forms. There will be time for open-ended questions about budgeting as well. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office).
Register for March 12th How-To
Supervisors of Students ERG – Communication & Active Listening for Successful Supervision
Wednesday, March 12, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – Moseley Center, McKinnon F
Led by Olivia Brown from the Center for Leadership, this workshop explores strategies for effective communication, including active listening and engaging with student employees. Participants will deepen their understanding of relationship-building and leave with practical skills to take their supervision to the next level!
This event is a bring-your-own-lunch event – but feel free to stop by Irazu before the event for a drink and a treat on us!
Register for March 12th Supervisors of Students ERG
Joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ – A Cultural Orientation Program
Friday, March 14, 8:45 a.m.-2:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
The Office of Leadership & Professional Development (OLPD) is inviting all part-time and full-time ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ employees who have joined ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ since September 2024 to ‘Joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ – A Cultural Orientation Program’. Dr. Connie Book, ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ President, will kick off Joining ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ on Friday, March 14th (8:45 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.), followed by an opportunity to learn more about ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ from various departmental leaders, as well as lunch and a campus tour.
This program is by invitation only. If you’re a new member of the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ community, you will be receiving more information soon. We look forward to providing this opportunity for you to meet more of your colleagues and learn more about ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ.
Lunch will be provided for registered attendees. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office).
Sustainability ERG –Â Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon
Friday, March 14, 1:00-5:00 p.m. – Lakeside 212
Use your ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Volunteer Hours to help clean up Alamance County! Join the Sustainability ERG for the 35th Annual Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon to pick up litter along the Swepsonville River. All necessary equipment and transportation will be provided, and we will return to campus by 5:00 p.m. All are welcome, whether this is your first or twentieth time attending a Sustainability ERG! Lunch will be provided promptly at 1:00 p.m., and this event is limited to the first 23 registrants.
Register for March 14th Sustainability ERG
Fitness ERG –Â Chair Yoga Fun!
Thursday, March 20, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Get ready for a fun, accessible, and energizing workout that’s easy on the joints and big on benefits! In this lively group class, we’ll combine the gentle movements of chair yoga with low-impact exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and overall wellness. No need to worry about getting on the floor – every move is designed to be done seated or standing with support. Whether you’re looking to release tension, boost your energy, or simply have a good time, this class is all about feeling good and having fun while you move. Join us for a session of relaxation, stretching, and laughter! (Note: lunch will not be served during this event.)
Register for March 20th Fitness ERG
Interpersonal Communication Lunch & Learn
Tuesday, March 25, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Discover how to enhance interpersonal communication and clear expression to build stronger, more meaningful connections. This session will be led by Dr. Cara Lucia, Associate Professor, Department of Sport Management, and is the second of a three-part series on communication. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for March 25th Lunch & Learn
Social Media ERG – Video for Social Media
Thursday, March 27, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
We all know that videos largely drive social media. But how do you get your videos to stand out and look good? Brandon Talton ’23, Coordinator of Advancement Communications and video extraordinaire, will join us and discuss what it takes to make a social-first video. He will be covering how to make your videos shine with the equipment you have (smartphone) and some tips to make those videos appealing to your audience. This is a session you will not want to miss! Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for March 27th Social Media ERG
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Alumni ERG – Fun ‘N Games Lunch on April Fool’s Day!
Tuesday, April 1, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – East Commons 102 (519 E Haggard Ave)
Don’t be a fool . . . join the ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Alumni ERG for a Fun ‘n Games Lunch on April Fool’s Day. Trivia, prizes, food, and, of course, seeing all your fellow alums! Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for April 1st ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ Alumni ERG
Conflict Resolution Lunch & Learn
Tuesday, April 15, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Explore strategies for resolving conflicts constructively by fostering open dialogue, understanding diverse perspectives, and finding collaborative solutions. This session will be led by Dr. Cara Lucia, Associate Professor, Department of Sport Management, and is the third of a three-part series on communication. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for April 15th Lunch & Learn
Fitness ERG –Â Fitness Center Tour
Wednesday, April 23, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Ready to explore everything our campus gyms have to offer? Join us for a fun and informative tour where we’ll walk you through all the amazing facilities and resources available to you! We’ll show you where to break a sweat, stretch, or unwind. Whether you’re a fitness pro or just starting out, you’ll discover everything you need to make the most of your fitness journey. Let’s explore together and find your new favorite spot to work out, relax, and stay active! (Note: lunch will not be served during this event.)
Register for April 23rd Fitness ERG
Social Media ERG – Quiet Influence: Social Media Strategies for Introverts
Thursday, April 24, 12:00-1:00 p.m. – McCoy Commons, Oaks 212
Are you an introvert managing a social media page and feeling like you have to channel extrovert energy to keep up? This session is made for you! Learn how to embrace your natural strengths to create meaningful connections, engage authentically and build an online presence that works for you – without the burnout. Join us as Dr. Kelsey Armstrong, Student Life Communications Manager, shares practical tips and insights on thriving as an introvert in the social media world. Oaks 212 is located in the McCoy Commons building (same building and floor as the Phoenix Office). Lunch will be provided for registered attendees.
Register for April 24th Social Media ERG
ADDITIONAL CAMPUS PROGRAMS
(open to all faculty & staff)
It’s All About the Data (IT classes)
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ relies on data to make great decisions and provide the best experiences for students and employees. The types of data ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ collects includes student, financial, and personal information, all of which are protected by laws and regulations. In today’s digital age, data has become a vital element because it provides valuable insights into student performance, instructional strategies, school administration, financial performance, and business success.
In this session, Gary Sheehan, Information Security Director, will discuss how we all need to work together to ensure ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ follows good data governance practices to ensure our data remains accurate and available. Gary will talk about ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ’s internal standards, processes, controls, and policies that govern how data is managed within the University. These governance components help to ensure we all handle ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ data and information in a secure and compliant manner. Attending this session will satisfy your 2024-2025 information security awareness training requirement.
- Tuesday, February 4th – 2:00 p.m. Register for February 4th IT Zoom
- Thursday, February 6th – 11:00 a.m. Register for February 6th IT Zoom
- Wednesday, February 12th – 11:00 a.m. Register for February 12th IT Zoom
- Monday, February 17th – 2:00 p.m. Register for February 17th IT Zoom
- Friday, February 21st – 9:30 a.m. Register for February 21st IT Zoom
- Tuesday, February 25th – 3:00 p.m. Register for February 25th IT Zoom
- Thursday, March 13th – 11:00 a.m. Register for March 13th IT Zoom
- Tuesday, March 18th – 11:00 a.m. Register for March 18th IT Zoom
- Wednesday, March 26th – 9:00 a.m. Register for March 26th IT Zoom
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ NEXT: Professional & Continuing Education
Courses start soon!Â
ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ NEXT: Professional & Continuing Education provides in-demand workforce skills to advance your career and satisfy your love of learning.
As an additional employee benefit, all ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ employees receive one free ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ NEXT course taught by an ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ instructor per academic year. Over 30 courses and professional certificates are open for registration and taught both on-campus and online in topics like data analysis & visualization, Microsoft Excel, project management, business leadership, and cybersecurity.
Have questions about these offerings or interested in teaching in the future? Contact Jack Rodenfels, Director, Professional & Continuing Studies: jrodenfels@elon.edu
Note: Additional assistance in funding may be available through a partnership with the Office of Leadership and Professional Development.
Ongoing Campus Wide Mental Health Training
As a community committed to well-being, it is essential that faculty, staff, and students can recognize signs of distress and know how to respond if there are concerns about a someone. Counseling Services is offering a new online training, called Kognito At-Risk, to the entire ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ community to help build skills to create a safer and more supportive campus. The At-Risk for Faculty & Staff training will help you learn to notice signs of distress, use techniques to discuss your concerns, and, if necessary, refer students to appropriate resources. At-Risk for Faculty & Staff lets you practice these challenging conversations at your own pace through role-play with virtual students. To access the training, visit https://elon.kognito.com/ and log on with your ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ username and password to get started.