University of Mississippi staff members on the Oxford campus may apply for Staff Creative Residencies, one-week opportunities to work on individual creative projects.
The initiative, conceived by the Mississippi Lab and funded by the Office of the Provost, supports projects such as painting, photography, woodworking, writing, video game design, music composition, quilting and more.
“Just as important as professional development, personal development benefits the workplace,” said Andrea Jekabsons, UM chief human resources officer, and one of three staff members who will choose the residency recipients. “The Staff Creative Residencies program offers the opportunity for employees to ‘refill their cup’ by re-energizing creativity as well as building confidence.
“Creativity programs encourage employees to step out of their comfort zone and gain new skills and perspectives. For example, the initial step of applying requires brainstorming and critical thinking, as well as research skills and potential collaboration when seeking feedback from a friend, mentor, colleague or family member.”
Up to 10 residencies will be awarded in 2022. Staff members with one year or more of successful, regular, full-time service are eligible to apply. Supervisor permission is required. For the inaugural year, the program is available only to Oxford campus staff members.
Residencies will be scheduled for the weeks of June 23 or July 18, and participants may do their residencies remotely. Those selected will be compensated at their regular rate of pay and will receive a $500 stipend to be used for related travel, supplies, mentor fees or other appropriate expenses.
After the residency, participants will be expected to complete a 250-word self-assessment by Aug. 10, as well as contribute to an August panel exhibition and discussion about the experience.
To apply, email hr@olemiss.edu to request an online form and instructions on how to submit a required proposal and biography, as well as how to get supervisor approval via Hello Sign. For help writing your proposal, email director@mississippilab.org. The application deadline is May 23.
For more information, go to https://www.mississippilab.org/staff.