Post-mortem studies of human brains provide direct evidence that numerous pollutants—including nanoparticles and toxic metals—accumulate in brain tissue. Deborah Cory-Slechta, a professor of environmental medicine and of neuroscience, says she suspects that the brain can’t cope with the resulting metal concentrations, noting that, for decades, pathologists have seen elevated levels of various metals in the brains of people with neurodegenerative diseases. She is now studying how the metals disrupt brain chemistry.
Join the Green Reps for ‘Mystery Date with a Book’
The Green Reps employee engagement program will host its annual “Mystery Date with a Book” event for faculty and staff on Wednesday, February 12, from 1 to 2 p.m. Learn more and register by February 7.
The University’s annual performance evaluation process provides an opportunity for both managers and staff to receive feedback and evaluate progress over the last year, as well as set goals, plan projects, and establish timelines for the year ahead. This year, performance evaluations will launch for the entire University, including the Medical Center, on Saturday, February 1, and follow the same timeline. All performance evaluations must be completed by Monday, June 30, in MyPath. The process for completing performance evaluations in MyPath will remain the same as last year, and the schedule is as follows. Find resources to prepare for performance evaluations on the HR website.
Staff self-reviews: Saturday, February 1, through Saturday, March 8.
Manager reviews: Sunday, March 9, through Sunday, April 20.
Employee acknowledgment: Due Monday, June 30.
Large course instructor group
Courses enrolling more than 60 students offer unique instructional opportunities. This group will meet in person six times for 90 minutes to explore evidence-based teaching practices, share ideas and resources, and discuss strategies for active learning. It is open to instructors teaching courses enrolling students in the School of Arts & Sciences or Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences. Register here.
Retirement program webinar
Get an overview of the University’s 403(b) retirement program, learn how to create a retirement strategy, update your account with TIAA, and utilize the tools provided by TIAA in a live webinar on Tuesday, January 21, from noon to 1 p.m. Reserve your place.
Spring cohort of the Mindful Professor Training Program
Join the fifth cohort of the Mindful Professor Training Program this spring, hosted by the Mindful University Project. Designed exclusively for teaching faculty and course instructors, this program offers research-backed tools to cultivate calm, enhance teaching effectiveness, and bolster your well-being and that of your students. Gain practical insights and skills to foster mindful leadership, improve focus, and create a more supportive learning environment. Sessions begin on February 10 and will take place on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. in Genesee Hall, Room 325, with coffee provided at every session.
Benefits include a certificate of completion, a “Mindful Professor” sticker and notebook, recognition on the website, and access to a community of mindful educators. Register today to secure your spot.
Staff appreciation event at MAG
Join President Sarah Mangelsdorf for a staff appreciation event at the Memorial Art Gallery on Wednesday, February 12, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. Explore the museum, take in live music, and enjoy food and drinks. Register here to attend.
Claims now accepted for the Child Care Subsidy
Those approved for the 2025 Child Care Subsidy may log into Lifetime Benefit Solutions at any time and start the claim/reimbursement process. You can submit a claim via the Lifetime Benefit Solutions member portal or mobile app. You also can complete a claim form and mail it to Lifetime Benefit Solutions. If you have not previously logged into your Lifetime Benefit Solutions account, refer to the new user instructions. For more information, visit the Family Care website.
Answers for low back pain
Talk to an expert about your symptoms, get a functional assessment, and create a plan to improve and maintain restorative mobility during Well-U’s low back pain program. To start your journey, contact your personal coach.
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