HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER DECEMBER 2023 TABLE OF CONTENTS
FROM THE OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Pg. 2 & 3- Important Updates University Closed for Holiday Break Employee 403(b) Contribution Update Flexible Spending Account Update Health New England Health Reimbursement Go Paperless for ADP Updates
As we usher in the winter season and approach the dawn of the new year, we're excited to share important updates. This month, we're focusing on the core value of "We Work Best as a Community that Collaborates." Delving into the essence of collaboration, we've curated two resources on teamwork and the makings of stellar teams. We hope you enjoy them.
Pg. 1 - Overview From the Office of HR
Pg. 4 - Congratulations on your Retirement! Pg. 5 - Core Values Core Value of the Month Teamwork Reimagined From SMART Goal to Stellar Teams Pg. 6 - Nominate a Colleague President's Award for Innovative Thinking Core Values Award Pg. 7-8 - Health & Well-Being Initiatives Employee Yoga HNE Winner & HNE Wellness Webinar Magellan Healthcare Webinars TIAA Financial Education Webinars Pg. 9 -Community Happenings Annual Holiday Luncheon & Employee Recognition Celebration Community Luncheon Schedule Pg. 10 - Happy Holidays Pg.11 -2023 Holiday Charities Carpe-Diem Fund Wildcat Pantry Pg. 12 - BPU Community Discounts Pg. 13 & 14 - Human Resources Team & Contact Us
As we navigate this season of reflection and gratitude, we extend an invitation for you to nominate outstanding colleagues for the prestigious annual President's Award for Innovative Thinking and the Core Values Award. We will be celebrating the achievements of our colleagues at the highly anticipated annual Employee Recognition Ceremony and Holiday Luncheon scheduled for Tuesday, December 19, 2023 @ 11:30am. Kindly ensure your RSVP reaches us by December 12th—we hope to see you there in person or on Zoom! In this issue, we also share many updates, ranging from guidance on obtaining your annual tax forms through ADP to the latest on employee 403(b) contributions, Flexible Spending Accounts, and heartfelt tributes to our retirees. As we navigate the hustle and bustle of this often hectic season, we encourage you to embrace the health and well-being initiatives thoughtfully provided. We hope you will find these updates enriching. Happy reading!
Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony & Holiday Luncheon Tuesday, December 19th, 2023 Blake Dining Hall & Zoom 11:30am - 2:00pm | Hybrid Presentation @ 12:15PM
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
IMPORTANT UPDATES
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
IMPORTANT UPDATES GO PAPERLESS ANNUAL TAX FORMS
HEALTH NEW ENGLAND REIMBURSEMENT
You can now view and download digital versions of annual tax forms, including Form W-2 in ADP. If you want to continue receiving annual tax forms on paper, no action is needed. If you want to reduce the amount of paper mail you receive, going paperless for your W-2 is a great way to start.
If you are enrolled in the medical plan with HNE, you are eligible for reimbursement of up to $200 per individual plan and up to $400 per family plan per calendar year for combined fitness and HNE Weight Watchers’ activities.
How do I enroll? Sign into ADP click on tab Myself > Pay > Pay & Tax Statements
First, you must register online at www.my.healthnewengland.org and select 'Member' in the drop-down menu.
1. Under the Go Paperless tile, click Go Paperless on the bottom right. 2. Under the Tax Statements section, toggle the radio button to set Receive paperless statements to On. 3. Read the information, click I Agree, and click Next. 4. Enter the confirmation number, and click Next. 5. Click Done. To change paper options in ADP Mobile, employees should navigate to Myself > Tax > Go Paperless.
EMPLOYEE 403(b)
Follow the prompts to enter your member information (be sure to have your HNE card available). Select Forms from the menu, and then select Wellness Reimbursement form and file for your reimbursement online. You can also download the reimbursement form to print, complete, and mail in. You can also call Member Services at (800)310-2835 to request a form.
CONTRIBUTION UPDATE
FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNT UPDATE
The 403(b) limit on elective salary deferrals for 2024
The IRS has announced that in 2024, employees can
has increased to $23,000, up from $22,500 in 2023.
contribute up to $3,200 pre-tax to the health care flexible spending accounts (FSAs), through payroll
Employees who are age 50 and older at the end of
deductions, a $150 increase from 2023.
the calendar year can make catch-up contributions of $7,500 in 2024. To update your contributions, click here.
The maximum carryover also rises to $640.
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
Congratulations on your Retirement! Doina Barrows Doina Barrows, Custodial and Housekeeping Supervisor, retired on November 30, 2023, after more than 17 years of dedicated service at Bay Path University. Doina has been a valuable member of the facilities team, assisting in campus preparations for significant events and visits including the Princess of Thailand, Governor Charlie Baker and New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft. Her warm, caring demeanor and attention to detail have positively impacted the community and students.
Doina Barrows and her children.
Thank you Doina for your many years of outstanding service!
Watson James Watson James, Custodian at the Philip H Ryan Center, retired on December 1st, after joining Bay Path in spring 2014, shortly before the center's opening. His optimistic attitude and dedicated work ethic have significantly contributed to enhancing the learning and working environment at the Ryan Center. Watson's impact has been felt by everyone through his positive demeanor and valuable contributions to maintaining the facility. Thank you Watson for your many years of outstanding service!
Mike Giampietro, Senior Vice President for Finance & Administrative services; Watson James, Custodian; Dr. Theresa DeVito, Dean, School of Health & Natural Sciences
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
CORE VALUE OF THE MONTH We Work Best as a Community that Collaborates. Working collaboratively is where we function best. In solving problems across silos, communicating transparently, embracing challenge together, and inspiring each other, we strengthen our community and, in turn, fulfill our mission. Collectively, we take pride in our work and celebrate our success.
Teamwork Reimagined by Kevin Cahill
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT Leading Edge Webinar From SMART Goal to Stellar Teams: The power of Trust and Accountability. Wednesday, December 13th | 12:00PM - 1:15PM Click here to register!
Imagine the possibilities of a world powered by teamwork, guided by a culture of “we” not “me” thinking and actions. Kevin Cahill, Executive Director of The W. Edwards Deming Institute®, explores a new vision of teamwork and the limitless potential and connecting power of a collaborative society.
Click here for Video
In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the strength of a team is often determined by its foundation of trust and accountability. Dive deep into the "Accountability With Care" system, a transformative approach that seamlessly integrates Steven Covey's "Speed of Trust" and Patrick Lencioni's principles from "The Advantage." This webinar will illuminate the intricate dance between trust, transparency, and the art of setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timebound) goals. Presented by Dr. Lichtenfeld, Vice President of Recruitment Consulting at Ruffalo Noel-Levitz, who boasts over 20 years in higher education administration. Specializing in graduate, undergraduate, and online admissions, she excels in strategic recruitment, enrollment management, and compliance.
Learn more about our Core Values on our dedicated page on the Bay Path Community Portal, where you can access the valuable resources we are crafting for all members of our community!
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
Nominate a Colleague As we approach our Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony and Holiday Luncheon, we will celebrate the outstanding contributions of colleagues through two important awards:
Annual President's Award for Innovative Thinking The President's Award for Innovative Thinking is an opportunity to spotlight a fellow colleague for going above and beyond the call of duty and who consistently identifies new ways to make advancements in the workplace. Click here for 2023 Innovation Award Info & Nomination Form.
Annual Core Values Award The Core Values Award is also an opportunity to highlight an employee who has fully embodied our Values through intentionality and mindfulness, working diligently to bring the Core Values to fruition in their daily interactions and work. Click here for 2023 Core Values Award Nomination Form. As a reminder, our Core Values are: Our Learners Come First Diversity Makes Us Stronger We Are Committed To Equity Innovation and Excellence Drive Us We Pledge to Foster Inclusion and Belonging We Work Best as a Community that Collaborates We Treat Others with Respect and Compassion Health and Well-Being Matter Nominations should be submitted to the President's Office: PresidentsOffice@baypath.edu.
Deadline is: Friday, December 8th, 2023. Award winners will be announced at the Annual Employee Recognition Ceremony & Holiday Luncheon scheduled for Tuesday, December 19th, from 11:30 am to 2:00 pm. We hope to see you there!
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
HEALTH & WELL-BEING INITIATIVE FREE Yoga with Andrea! Hybrid yoga classes with Andrea Cordis, who is a certified yoga instructor, will take place weekly from 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM at the Breck Fitness Center Dance Studio as well as on Zoom on the following days:
November’s Health New England‘s Fitness for All Ages & Abilities Webinar Winner Brian Collins Assistant Bursar
Monday, December 11, 2023 Monday, December 18, 2023
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
For virtual access, Click here!
For more tips on Health & Well-Being visit the Core Values Resource Hub or the Core Values Padlet sponsored by Hatch Learning Commons
Health New England Wellness Webinar Open to everyone!
December 14th at 12:00PM: Loneliness and Social Connectedness Stay connected and feel better. How Do You Define Loneliness? Spending time alone doesn’t mean that you’re lonely. But if you experience chronic loneliness, it can cause deep feelings of sadness that can affect your memory, hurt your heart health and increase your risk for substance abuse and suicide. Click here to register! Anyone who registers using their work email and attends, will be entered into a raffle for a $10 Panera Gift Card, and will be entered into a raffle for all attendees for a prize of a $50 Amazon Gift Card. Health New England has partnered with WebMD Health Services to offer you live webinars to educate, engage and empower our University’s health journey. These webinars will take place once per month at Noon and consist of 60-minute webinars. Sessions will be recorded for future access on our Health New England YouTube Channel at YouTube.com/HealthNewEngland.
HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
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HEALTH & WELL-BEING INITIATIVE Magellan Wellness Webinars Emotional Wellbeing Tuesday, December 12th at 12:00PM | 3:00PM When people have emotional wellbeing, they’re able to maintain supportive relationships, keep their emotions balanced and face life’s challenges with resilience. They’re flexible in adapting to new situations, and they make room for fun in their day. Coping with Grief and Loss Wednesday, December 13th at 2:00PM In this class, define and discuss the processes of grief, bereavement and mourning. Look closely at the experience of grief, how to work through the sadness and emotions you may be feeling and prioritizing self-care if you’ve suffered a great loss.
TIAA Financial Webinars Make the move toward long-term financial security: Your midcareer retirement check-in Thursday, December 7th 12:00 - 1:00 PM Review your retirement plan to make sure you’re on the path to lifelong financial security! This webinar includes considering your priorities, putting together a spending plan and knowing the ways to save, all while juggling current financial demands. Click here to register! Write your next chapter: 5 steps to setting your retirement date Tuesday, December 12th 2:00PM - 3:00 PM Set your retirement date with the help of these five steps! These include estimating retirement expenses, closing any income gaps, understanding key milestones that can impact your retirement finances and protecting your savings. Click here to register! Establish your retirement plan: A start-to-finish guide Wednesday, December 13th 12:00PM - 1:00PM Developed with women in mind, or for anyone who wants to think ahead about their finances! This webinar will help you understand your income inflow and outflow and how to balance them, saving strategies and creating a solid foundation for financial well-being. Click here to register!
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
COMMUNITY LUNCHEON SCHEDULE 2023-2024 Employee Recognition Ceremony & Holiday Luncheon Tuesday, December 19, 2023 Blake Dining Hall/Hybrid
Health & Well-Being Matter Luncheon Thursday, January 25, 2024 Ryan Center Black History Month Luncheon Thursday, February 15, 2024 Blake Dining Hall Employee Appreciation Day Luncheon Friday, March 1, 2024 Blake Dining Hall Academic Achievement Day Luncheon Tuesday, April 9, 2024 Blake Dining Hall Pride Celebration TBD Juneteenth Celebration TBD
Annual Employee Recognition & Holiday Luncheon Please RSVP here by Tuesday, December 12th, 2023! Beyond good company, good food, and good music, the event will consist of the following presentations: Service Award Presentation: click here to see the list of this year’s honoree's. 2023 Retiree Presentation Charity Presentation - Carpe Diem Fund and Wildcat Pantry President's Award for Innovative Thinking Core Values Award Raffle & Trivia Remember that this is a hybrid event. The Zoom link to join virtually is accessible via the Google calendar invitation. If you plan to attend in person, be sure to bring your smart phone with you to participate in the raffle contest and trivia game.
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! This holiday season is a time of celebration, commitment to one’s faith and culture, and a reverence for one another. In our wonderfully diverse community, we share one another’s joy during these times. We invite you to learn about the various celebrations during this holiday season. Christians of all denominations are preparing for Christmas; The commemoration of the birth of Christ. Getting ready for Christmas has its many cultural aspects such as decorating, spending time with friends and family, and gift giving, but many of these cultural traditions that we participate in are also celebrations of spiritual traditions associated with the holiday. It is a time or generosity, hope, and of “great joy for all the people” - Luke 2:10 Three Kings Day (Epiphany) is an important celebration for the Latinx community, celebrating the visit of the Three Wise Men (also Three Kings) who found Jesus after his birth by following the path of a star across the desert for 12 days. Cultural and Religious traditions include parades, amity feasts, and gift-giving. Our Jewish community members begin the eight-day celebration of Hanukkah (Also referred to as Festival of Lights), on December 7th, commemorating the liberation and rededication to the Temple of Jerusalem. Hanukkah is a time when Jewish families gather to light the eight-candle Menorah, symbolizing the eight days that candles were lit in the temple from only one jar of oil. They also share meals, stories, and give gifts. Religiously, Hanukkah is a time when Jews rededicate themselves to their faith. Kwanzaa is an African American and pan-African celebration of family, community and culture, During this week-long celebration (December 26 - January 1), activities are organized around the Nguzo Saba (The Seven Principles) and include feasts, songs, dances, music, storytelling, and poetry reading. Gita Jayanti is a Hindu celebration centered around the creation of the Bhagavad Gita, one of the holy scriptures of Hinduism, during which people reflect on living a better life. This holiday falls on 11th day of the waxing moon of the Margashirsha month of the Hindu calendar. Eid Milad-Un-Nabii is a Muslim holiday where people remember the teachings of Islam, exchange gifts, and donate to the poor in celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth. The date follows the third month of the Islamic calendar and can vary from year to year. The Winter Solstice is the Astronomical marking of the beginning of lengthening days and shortening nights, and is celebrated across the world by many. It is held on December 21st this year, symbolizing the return of light from darkness. Traditions include feasts, gift-giving, and festivals. Lunar New Year is a festival that begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends on the first full moon of the lunar calendar, 15 days later. Lunar New Year is one of the most important celebrations of the year among East and Southeast Asian cultures, including Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities, among others. Depending on the country, the Buddhist New Year will be celebrated between December and April. This is a time for meditation and self reflection. Traditions vary by country, but can include warm greetings to one another, feasts, visiting temples on New Year's Day, and lighting candles for good luck and happiness. To all those who celebrate a religious or cultural holiday this season, the Bay Path Community wishes you joy in those celebrations. For all of us, those celebrating this holiday season, or not, may the new year be filled with peace and all that is good.
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
2023 HOLIDAY CHARITY: CARPE DIEM FUND & WILDCAT PANTRY
Please click here for links
HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | DECEMBER 2023
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HUMAN RESOURCES TEAM
Ashley Pereira Assistant VP for People & Culture
Meghan Rosenberger HR Business Partner
Brenda Fletcher
Responsible for: Strategy HR Operations Compensation Employee Relations Core Values
Responsible for: Recruitment Onboarding Performance Evaluations Training Employee Relations
Responsible for:
HR Generalist
Benefits & Retirement PFML/FMLA Workers Compensation Operations Manual
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
Colby Cabral HRIS Specialist
Jeannette Mojica
Lisa Berezin
HR Support Specialist
HR Assistant (PT)
Responsible for: Responsible for: HR Information General Assistance Systems HR Communications Reporting HR Newsletter Data Requests HR Events HR Metrics Assistance Special Projects
Responsible for: Job Postings Onboarding New Hires New Adjunct Faculty Background Checks I-9's Compliance
Lori Moccio Payroll Supervisor Responsible for: Payroll Procedures and Process Updates Adjunct Contracts Payroll Management Direct Deposit Requests & Changes Paid Time Off (PTO)
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact HR@baypath.edu
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HUMAN RESOURCES NEWSLETTER | NOVEMBER 2023
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! The Human Resources Newsletter is a great way to get reminders as well as to advertise your own news to the rest of your colleagues. If you have something you would like to have included in next month’s newsletter, be sure to send an email to hr@baypath.edu so that we can add your information to the issue.