Photo by Robert Jordan/Ole Miss Communications
Most of us University of Mississippi employees anticipate the arrival of annual Staff Appreciation Week. It’s somewhat like an extended break from the regular routines we all engage in daily.
Starting Monday (May 11), staff members can enjoy a variety of events at their leisure. Of all the activities, perhaps the Friday (May 15) awards ceremony is what honorees find most gratifying.
The program begins at 9 a.m. in the Gertrude C. Ford Center for the Performing Arts. All UM staff members hired within the past year will be announced in the assembly. Afterwards, long-term employees will be presented either a certificate, lapel pin, plaque or keepsake in recognition of their 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 30-plus years of service to the institution.
Before the program ends, Chancellor Dan Jones will present a select few employees with Outstanding Staff Awards. Carl Hill, Staff Council president, will also present Service Awards and give closing remarks. Recipients of these honors get monetary rewards as well as the traditional plaque.
Other activities scheduled during the week include:
- Monday (May 11): a lecture at 10 a.m. in the Ole Miss Student Union Ballroom, an 11 a.m. kickoff in front of the Lyceum, bicycle maintenance at the Ole Miss Bike Shop starting at 4 p.m. and aqua aerobics at the Turner Center pool at 5:15 p.m.
- Tuesday (May 12): a 9 a.m. blood drive on the Ole Miss Student Union Plaza, a noon bicycle ride starting at the Lyceum, a 4 p.m. Zumba class in front of the Grove Stage and aqua aerobics again at 5:15 p.m.
- Wednesday (May 13): the blood drive continues at 9 a.m., a 10 a.m. music and meditation service in Paris-Yates Chapel and a 2 p.m. introduction to belly dancing in the Yerby Center auditorium.
- Thursday (May 14): a 10 a.m. plant swap on the porch of the Ole Miss Student Union, a 12:30 p.m. yoga and yogurt session in Room 405 of the Union and aqua aerobics at 5:15 p.m.
- Friday (May 15): bike to work beginning at 7 a.m., the awards ceremony, an 11 a.m. staff lunch in the Paul B. Johnson Commons and fun time beginning at 1 p.m.
As one who received my 5-year certificate in 2011, I urge everyone to attend Friday’s awards ceremony. Whether you’re being honored or not, showing support for your fellow employees will make both you and them feel great! Don’t miss all the other great events either. Hopefully, I’ll see you around campus during the week!