Cornerstone
MIAMI UNIVERSITY FINANCE AND BUSINESS SERVICES
MIAMI 2040:
Miami University's Climate Action Plan
Bridget Maney
In a landmark move towards sustainability, Miami University has pledged to a comprehensive Climate Action Plan, committing to achieving carbon neutrality on its Oxford campus by 2040. The plan, titled Miami 2040: Miami University’s Climate Action Plan, sets ambitious targets to reduce carbon emissions from energy use, commuting, and university-financed air travel as much as possible by 2040.
This plan is a bold step towards committing to a more sustainable future for the university, a decade sooner than all other Ohio public universities. Miami has already achieved significant reductions in energy-based carbon emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) since 2008, resulting in an accumulated cost savings of over $100 million and reduced Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 51%. Scope 1 is emissions that are generated from utilities we produce on campus. Examples of this include emissions from running our natural gas-powered generators to produce electricity for the campus, as well as the production of steam for heat. Scope 2 is the emissions generated from the creation of the electricity that we purchase from the grid.
President's Climate Leadership Commitment
One of the cornerstones of the Climate Action Plan is the commitment made in the President's Climate Leadership Commitment that was signed by Dr. Crawford in September 2020. This commitment signifies a dedication to sustainability and underscores the university's role in addressing one of the most pressing challenges of our time. The plan’s introduction includes that, as a signatory of Second Nature’s Climate Commitment , the Climate Action Plan outlines the goals, targets, and actions that will lead Miami’s Oxford campus to carbon neutrality for energybased emissions (Scopes 1 and 2) and emissions from commuting and university-financed air travel (Scope 3). The goal is to eliminate at least 90% of emissions to avoid carbon offsets as possible.
The Role of the Climate Action Task Force
Central to the success of Miami 2040 is the establishment of the Climate Action Task Force. This task force, comprising faculty, staff, and students, plays a crucial role in developing, implementing, and monitoring the progress of the Climate Action Plan. Through collaboration and innovative thinking, the committee is driving change across the university, ensuring that sustainability remains a top priority in all aspects of campus life including transitioning building heating and cooling systems off steam, electrifying campus systems, generating electricity from solar energy, and procuring purchased electricity from renewable sources.
Importance of Sustainability to Current and Prospective Students
Miami understands that sustainability is important to current and prospective students based on current data as seen below.
Pew Research on the generational differences in climate shows:
• Gen Z is more likely than any other generation to say (37%) that addressing climate change is their top personal concern.
Inside Higher Ed found that:
• 45% considered environmental sustainability in their college enrollment decision, although only 12% say it also influenced their choice of college.
• 85% say it’s at least somewhat important for their campus to prioritize sustainability.
A Yale School of Management study focused on current business students found:
• A majority of students—52%—are very or extremely concerned about the impacts of climate change.
• Large majorities want more experiential learning focused on sustainability (70%), more case studies on the topic (65%), and better career services focused on sustainability roles (62%).
As the university transitions to more sustainable practices, staff will be involved in implementing these changes, whether through the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, waste reduction strategies, or sustainable procurement practices. While these changes may require some adjustment, they present an opportunity for staff to contribute to a more sustainable future for Miami University.
Looking Forward
Miami University's Climate Action Plan represents a bold and ambitious commitment to sustainability. By signing the President's Climate Commitment and establishing the Climate Action Committee, the university is taking concrete steps towards a more sustainable future. While the plan will undoubtedly present challenges, it also offers a wealth of opportunities for staff to contribute to a greener, more sustainable Miami University. As we look towards 2040, we can be proud to be part of an institution that is leading the way in addressing climate change and building a brighter future for generations to come. You can find more information about this initiative at MiamiOH.edu/sustainability.
Olivia Herron and Jonathan Levy in Shideler Hall
Olivia Herron and Jonathan Levy co-chair Miami's Climate Action and Sustainability Council. Olivia, serving as the Director of Sustainability at PFD for the last two years, and Jonathan, who has been the Director of the Institute for the Environment and Sustainability (IES) and associate professor of Geology since 1994, collaborate closely to oversee and monitor sustainability initiatives campus-wide.
Visit the Sustainability at Miami website, and learn more about the Miami 2040 Plan. The final version of the Plan will be submitted to SecondNature.org in May 2024.
MiamiOH.edu/sustainability
CAMPUS RACE TO ZERO WASTE
Bridget Maney
Since its inception in January 2001, Miami’s commitment to sustainability has flourished, exemplified by the birth of RecycleMania, now recognized as Campus Race to Zero Waste. What began as a friendly challenge between Miami and Ohio University to reduce waste and increase recycling efforts on campus, this initiative has burgeoned into a nationwide movement, spanning over 1,100 colleges and universities in the U.S. and Canada. According to data from Campus Race to Zero Waste's website, those colleges and universities have collectively recycled and composted 1,064 million pounds of waste and prevented the release of nearly 1.62 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent. This achievement is comparable to removing over 335,000 passenger vehicles from the road for one year.
This year’s competition ran from January 28 through March 23, 2024. As part of the competition, Miami had a great partnership with Social Innovation Weekend (SIW). From March 1 to March 3, Miami hosted SIW: a dynamic 48-hour-long workshop that immerses student teams in intensive, hands-on collaboration with campus partners and key public and private stakeholders at various governmental levels. During SIW, participants engaged in ideation, testing, development, and pitching of innovative plans for companies, projects, or initiatives aimed at addressing pressing social or environmental challenges.
Results from Social Innovation Weekend 2024
You may have already seen the Oscar Sort smart recycling stations throughout Armstrong Student Center and Red Zone. An Oscar Sort smart recycling station, as featured on Intuitive AI's website, is an advanced waste management solution equipped with artificial intelligence technology designed to streamline and
optimize the sorting of recyclable materials, contributing to more efficient and sustainable waste management practices. Simply hold up the items you want to throw away and it will determine which bin to dispose of them in.
Another noteworthy sustainability effort on campus is the Food Recovery network, a nonprofit focused on hunger relief and food rescue in the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana region that was led by current Miami Student, Levi Grimm.
During this year’s competition, Miami collected 225,190 pounds of recycling, 1,813 pounds of composting, and 4,630 pounds of “recovered” food which is donated to local food pantries. Miami ranked 27 out of 78 universities in the Per Capita Classic category of pounds recycled per student.
BROKEN GLASS
Jon ElliottTwo words. Two words that send chills down the spine of the Goggin Operations team. Broken glass. Like a pitcher throwing a no hitter, it’s best not to say those words in casual conversation or forever be known as the one who brought the curse. However, these two words put into motion a series of events where Goggin shines the brightest. There’s no time to stop and make a plan, that’s already been done, just react and do the work. Broken glass.
There are two types of glass used in hockey areas, traditional tempered glass and acrylic/plexiglass, each having positives and negatives. In NHL and multipurpose facilities, lightweight acrylic makes converting the arenas for different events easy but is time consuming and difficult to keep clean. In hockey, dedicated facilities tempered glass is more common for its stability and ease of cleaning. Due to the high volume of use, both rinks at Goggin are equipped with tempered glass.
Tempered glass is incredibly strong but also can be surprisingly fragile. It can absorb enormous forces of players crashing into it and pucks smacking off without a scratch but if flexed in just the right way, or hit in just the right spot…broken glass. Even if you are not a hockey fan you have probably seen a highlight video of what comes next, glass shattering and raining down on everyone nearby. This poses a danger to both the athletes and the spectators and is time consuming to clean up. The tempered glass utilized at Goggin is a somewhat unique system to prevent this outcome.
Goggin’s glass is laminated or more commonly known as safety glass, much like you would have in the windshield of your car, but much thicker. Two ½-inch and ¼-inch thick pieces are laminated together to create a ¾-inch glass pane, compared to the traditional single-pane ½-inch glass pieces more commonly used in ice rinks. The two sheets laminated together allow for one to stay intact if something causes the other side to shatter, keeping it together to protect players and spectators, and enabling the Goggin staff to safely and quickly replace the broken piece.
The most common culprit causing broken glass at Goggin does not come from within the walls of the rink but from outside it, hardened metal wedding rings. Goggin has been using this type of laminated glass system dating back to the previous Goggin Ice Arena, but in recent years the increasing popularity of these types of rings poses a challenge to the Goggin’s safety
glass system. A spectator attending the game who does not heed the warning label attached to the bottom corner of each piece of glass can inadvertently break the outside piece as they pound the glass in their excitement over a goal or frustration over a penalty.
February 2, 2024, 9:03 p.m. Broken glass. Once those two words are spoken a flurry of activity begins with each member of the Goggin team jumping into action like a race car pit crew. Each member of the Goggin Operations staff holds specialized training to care for the ice and ice making equipment at Goggin. They also deal with routine building maintenance and emergency repairs. Brandon Hall heads to the forklift. The glass is too heavy to lift by hand, instead a forklift and suction cups are used to handle them. Daryl Hildebrand grabs the “crash cart” containing a fresh piece of glass and tools that may be needed for the swap.
Nate Workman takes his place outside the glass to remove stabilizing clips from the top of the glass and insert safety plastic channels down the sides to protect the unbroken pieces. Once in place the broken piece is gently lifted out of the hockey boards and placed on the crash cart. The fresh piece is lifted off the cart and carefully inserted into the boards. Reinstall the clips and get off the ice. 7 minutes 10 seconds, a little off their record time but still quick, safe, and the arena packed full of Miami Hockey fans are wowed by the efficiency of the glass change. Brandon asks if we can get a faster forklift to shave some seconds off. Maybe someday.
NAVIGATING THE ICY PATH: ZAK’S JOURNEY THROUGH COACHING AND EDUCATION
Alex LehmanIn the realm of synchronized skating, Zak Yousef, a graduate student pursuing a Master of Science in Sport Leadership and Management, has embarked on a remarkable journey that intertwines academic pursuits, coaching responsibilities, and a deep-rooted passion for the sport. From childhood to college, Zak has been immersed in various sports activities, a commitment that has persisted into his current roles as an Intern for Programming at Goggin Ice Center and an Associate Head Coach for Team Precision Edge Synchronized Skating Teams. Recently, his dedication earned him a spot in the highly selective Domestic Coaches Education Program hosted by the U.S. Figure Skating.
Within his position at Goggin Ice Center, he instructs Broomball and Basic Ice Skating. Broomball classes emphasize play and skill development, offering two full sections, making it one of the most popular intramural sports on campus. Basic Ice Skating, on the other hand, caters to a diverse range of skating abilities across three sections, culminating in a final project where students craft their own skating programs.
Coaching synchronized skating teams has proven to be a rewarding, yet challenging experience for Zak. Judging and receiving scores add a fulfilling dimension to his role, requiring heightened communication, camaraderie, and leadership skills. Balancing coaching responsibilities with his work at Goggin and his pursuit of his master's degree presents its challenges, but the satisfaction derived from witnessing team growth and success makes it all worthwhile.
Beyond coaching and teaching, his involvement in skating has created a vibrant community and facilitated connections with individuals who share a passion for the sport. Even extending beyond the ice rink to forge connections with coaches at prestigious institutions.
Reflecting on a 15-year skating journey at Goggin Ice Center and beyond, Zak has come to realize the paramount importance of teamwork in life. This lesson fuels his ambition to contribute positively to the skating community, aspiring to leave a lasting impact on individuals, helping them not only achieve their skating goals but also become better people with a strong work ethic.
The recent recognition through the Domestic Coaches Education Program marks a significant personal and professional milestone for Zak. Personally, it represents the realization of a childhood dream to coach synchronized skating. Professionally, it symbolizes the culmination of hard work—juggling a full-time role at Goggin Ice Center, coaching responsibilities, and pursuing a master's degree.
Looking ahead, Zak envisions applying the knowledge gained from the Coaches Education Program to elevate the performance of their synchronized skating teams. Understanding the intricacies of scoring and judging will empower them to enhance both the technical and organizational aspects of coaching. Additionally, they aim to leverage this knowledge for strategic marketing to grow synchronized skating in the tristate area.
In conclusion, Zak’s skater-turned-coach and student's journey reflects a commitment to making a positive impact on the skating community. With the combination of academic knowledge and coaching experience, he aspires to contribute to the growth and success of synchronized skating, fostering a love for the sport in future generations.
RED BRICK RUN HONORS AMBER VOLK'S LEGACY
Breanna Kuderca
Harrison, Ohio fondly remembers Amber Volk, a cherished daughter, sister, beloved community member, and Miami University alumna, through the Amber Volk Foundation. Amber, a member of Phi MU and 2007 Miami University graduate, passed away in 2008. The foundation collaborates with Miami University Recreation Center and Phi MU to host the annual Red Brick 5K Run in her memory.
More than just a race, the Red Brick Run is a celebration of Amber's life and values, highlighting her resilience, compassion, and commitment to bettering the world. Her spirit inspires kindness, philanthropy, and perseverance among countless individuals, both locally and globally.
Dedicated to spreading Amber's values, the foundation supports charitable causes and educational initiatives.
One of its key initiatives is a memorial scholarship, in partnership with Miami University Recreational Sports, awarded to a student from Harrison High School.
The Amber Volk Foundation 5K Run symbolizes community strength and enduring friendship. Participants come together each year to honor Amber's memory and support the foundation's mission.
Proceeds from the run fund the memorial scholarship, ensuring future generations can pursue their dreams and uphold Amber's legacy of love and generosity.
If you would like to participate in this year's Red Brick Run on Saturday, April 28, visit MiamiOH.edu/redbrickrun.
JOHN MIHEVIC AWARDED THE CARL WIRTHWEIN AWARD
Ron Siliko
The Carl Wirthwein Award was awarded to Miami University Aquatic Center and Programs Director John Mihevic on Saturday, February 24, 2024 at the Ohio High School Athletic Association State Championship Meet for Swimming and Diving.
Considered the highest honor of all awards given by the Ohio High School Swimming Coaches Association, the Carl Wirthwein Award is given annually to an individual who has significantly contributed to high school swimming and diving in Ohio. The recipient must be nominated by an executive board member and then voted upon by the entire board.
John will also be inducted into the Ohio Swimming and Diving Hall of Fame this year.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE EXPANDING CREDIT CARD SUAAS METHOD OF PAYMENT TO MIAMI SUPPLIERS
Irena Chushak
At the beginning of 2022, Account Payable, in collaboration with JP Morgan, introduced a new payment method to Miami business suppliers. A new method known as a Single Use Credit Card Account (SUA) offers Miami suppliers to receive their payment as soon as their invoice is submitted. The SUA program improves suppliers’ cash flow as they don’t have to wait 30 days for payment which is a standard option for checks or ACH methods. Also, the SUA program allows Miami to earn significant rebates from the SUA transactions.
In 2022, we started with 20 suppliers, and continued to introduce the SUA program to our business partners. In 2023, because of continuous efforts of the Accounts Payable and JP Morgan teams, we increased the number of clients to 82. Our efforts also resulted in a rebate of $107,000 that Miami received in February of 2024. This is a 57% increase from the rebate received in 2023.
As we continue to work with our suppliers and JP Morgan to expand the SUA method of payment, we would like to make sure that all business offices across Miami are aware of advantages of the SUA and can also introduce it to our new suppliers.
WORKDAY LEARNING AND HOW IT WILL IMPACT YOU!
Brenda Curry
Workday Learning is an integrated learning management system (LMS) within the Workday platform. It serves as a central hub for various types of learning activities, including courses, certifications, and other educational resources. Refer to the list below of common questions about Workday Learning.
Will there be a library of courses?
Yes, Workday Learning includes a library of courses covering a wide range of topics relevant to Miami's needs. This library may include both internally developed courses and content from external providers.
Is it easy to see my learning history?
Yes, Workday Learning provides users with easy access to their learning history. Users can view their completed courses, certifications, and other learning activities within the platform.
Can I track my certifications?
Yes, Workday Learning allows users to track their certifications and monitor their progress towards achieving them. The platform provides tools for managing certifications, including tracking renewal dates and completion status.
Will I get training on how to use Workday Learning?
Yes, all employees will have access to Workday training including training on how to use the learning management system (LMS). Training will be delivered through online courses, job aids, or instructor-led sessions.
Will the Job Enrichment Program be managed in Workday?
Yes, Job Enrichment activities such as applying to participate in the program, as well as submitting learning completions will be managed in Workday. Training sessions will be provided to help JE participants and supervisors navigate the JE process in Workday.
As a supervisor, can I see my team's learning activities and progress?
Yes, supervisors have access to view their team's learning activities and monitor their progress within Workday Learning. This visibility allows supervisors to track their team's development and identify any areas where additional support may be needed.
As a supervisor, can I assign learning to my team?
Yes, supervisors have the ability to assign learning activities to their team members, individually or as a whole, within Workday Learning. This feature enables supervisors to align learning opportunities with team goals and development objectives.
Megan McCardwell
We're gearing up for another exciting Alumni Weekend at Brick & Ivy Campus Store. Join us from June 7 to June 9 for a weekend packed full of fun and special Alumni offers.
• Exclusive Savings: Alumni will have the chance to spin the savings wheel and discover their special surprise savings! From discounts up to 25% off to free gifts, there's something for everyone!
• Exciting Giveaways: Don't miss your chance to win big throughout the weekend!
• Extended Hours: We understand that the weekend can be a busy time, so we're extending our store hours to ensure you have plenty of time to shop.
• Friday, June 7: 8:30 A.M. - 6 P.M.
• Saturday, June 8: 8:30 A.M. - 8 P.M.
• Sunday, June 9: 9 A.M. - 1 P.M.
Make sure to mark your calendars and spread the word to fellow alumni and friends. Whether you're looking to stock up on Miami gear or just soak in the atmosphere of Alumni Weekend, Brick & Ivy is the place to be. Follow @mu_brickandivy for more updates and announcements as we get closer to the big weekend. We can't wait to celebrate with you all!
A WORKDAY SYSTEM PREVIEW IS AVAILABLE NOW
Randy Hollowell
There are only about 11 weeks left until we go live, and the Workday project team is happy to announce a new Canvas course called Workday System Preview. This Canvas course is a set of materials that provides all Miami faculty and staff the opportunity to get an early look at what a generic Workday system looks like as well as view some sample job aids for common tasks for employees and managers. There are no chapters, pages, or tests, just information for you to consume at your own pace.
The information included in the course materials are basic, non-Miami-specific navigation videos provided by Workday, as well as job aids for common tasks and actions. The course is available now and you can self enroll in it through Canvas.
This information is a chance for you to get started with seeing the Workday system before the official full-campus Workday training program kicks off later at the end of April. At that point, there will be numerous learning opportunities available that will continue through our go-live on July 1. These opportunities will be presented in a variety of methods, including live Zoom sessions, recordings for on-demand viewing, and hands-on sessions at various computer labs across our campuses, as well as at the Staff Development Center. Training will include program-specific and role-based opportunities, as well as employee self-service and manager self-service functions.
Workday Experience Sessions (WES)
Another project milestone was the Workday Experience Sessions (WES) that occurred on April 9-12. This was an opportunity for project team members and Change Champions to pilot the Workday training materials and test the support structures to make sure everything is ready to begin training the campus community.
The WES involved three major functions:
1. Preparation
2. Execute Lab
3. Review Feedback
The Organizational Change Management (OCM) team drafted training materials for typical tasks employees and managers will complete in Workday. Those materials were then tested in the Execute Lab(s) where individuals evaluated the effectiveness of the training materials, as well as the support processes. The OCM team is now using that feedback and their findings from the Lab to finalize their training plans.
Stay Informed
To learn more about the Workday implementation, visit the project website at MiamiOH.edu/WorkdayInfo. There you will have the opportunity to sign up for future editions of the project update newsletters and schedule a Workday presentation for your group or department. If you have any questions about the project, please send an email to workdayinfo@MiamiOH.edu .
UNLOCK THE ULTIMATE SUMMER ADVENTURE AT THE REC CENTER!
Samantha Drenski
Looking for an unforgettable summer experience for your child? Look no further than our exciting lineup of programs at the Rec Center! From action-packed camps to skill-building workshops, we have something for every young adventurer.
Rec Kids Camp: Let your child's imagination soar with our Rec Kids Camp! Designed for ages 7-11, this camp offers a dynamic blend of activities including games, sports, arts and crafts, swimming, climbing and much more. Our experienced staff creates a safe and nurturing environment where campers can boost their confidence, independence, and creativity.
Esports Day/Overnight Camp: Dive into the world of Esports with our Esports Day Camp! Geared towards ages 9-14, this camp introduces campers to the fundamentals of esports while fostering teamwork and camaraderie. From strategic gameplay to skill-building exercises, participants will have a blast exploring popular games like Roblox, Rocket League and Minecraft. There will also be an overnight option for 13-17 year olds!
Youth Climbing Camps: Reach new heights with our Youth Climbing Camps! Whether your child is a beginner or a seasoned climber, we offer half-day and full-day camps for ages 7-14. Led by expert instructors, campers will learn essential climbing techniques, safety skills, and outdoor adventure strategies.
Equestrian Adventures: Saddle up for a horse lover's dream at our Equestrian Camps! From introductory Horse Days for ages 6-12 to overnight camps for experienced riders aged 1318, we offer a range of programs tailored to each rider's skill level. Campers will learn riding fundamentals, horse care, and enjoy unforgettable bonding experiences with our gentle equine friends.
SportFit Workouts: Get active and stay fit with our SportFit program! Designed for ages 11-14, this dynamic exercise series focuses on enhancing speed, agility, strength, and injury prevention for all sports enthusiasts. With expert guidance and personalized training, participants will gain the competitive edge they need to excel on the field or court.
Learn to Swim: Dive into a world of aquatic fun with our Learn to Swim program! Perfect for ages 3-12, this comprehensive swimming course teaches essential water safety skills and foundational techniques in a supportive environment. Whether your child is a beginner or wants to refine their strokes, our certified instructors ensure a positive and rewarding learning experience.
Don't let your child miss out on the summer of a lifetime! Register now for our exciting Rec Center programs and make memories that will last a lifetime. Visit our website here for more information and secure your spot today!
ALICIA RIZZO RECEIVES COLLEGIATE CONFERENCE AND EVENTS PROFESSIONAL CERTIFICATION
Paula Green
Alicia Rizzo, Assistant Director of Conference and Event Services, was recently recognized in a press release by Diana Hakenholz, CMP, for earning the Collegiate Conference and Events Professional Certification (CCEP) from the Association of Collegiate Conference and Events DirectorsInternational (ACCED-I). Alicia received this recognition at the Association’s 44th Annual Conference in Providence on March 11, 2024.
The CCEP program was established by ACCED-I in 1991. Candidates are required to present evidence of substantial professional experience, volunteer service to the profession, and complete a lengthy research-based examination.
Alicia has been in her current position for a year and has worked in the conference and events profession for eight years. She has been a member of ACCED-I since 2020. Upon receiving the CCEP designation, Rizzo said, "I accepted the
challenge to complete my professional certification process because I believed that it would directly impact my ability to do my job on a daily basis. I feel like this was an important step to expanding my skill set, taking on a leadership role, and continuing growth in my profession. I am proud to receive this recognition and now that I have achieved this milestone, I feel I am well-positioned to take on new challenges and continue to grow in my career."
The Association of Collegiate Conference and Events Directors-International was founded in 1980 and currently has a membership of over 1,200 professionals at educational institutions in North America. ACCED-I is the largest independent educational association dedicated to professional growth and development in the conference and events profession. For further information on the association, visit ACCED-I's website at acced-i.org.
MIAMI UNIVERSITY EXPANDS ITS PARTNERSHIP WITH ECAMPUS.COM TO MANAGE THE OFFICIAL ATHLETICS AND ALUMNI ONLINE STORE TO ENHANCE E-COMMERCE EXPERIENCE
Megan McCardwell
Brick & Ivy is now the official e-commerce merchandise partner for Miami University's Athletics and Alumni Association. This collaboration builds upon the success of eCampus.com's operation of Brick & Ivy, Miami University’s Campus Store, which has been under their management since 2021.
“By combining our expertise in online retail with Miami University’s rich traditions and community spirit, we look forward to delivering an unparalleled shopping experience for alumni, fans, and families,” said Matt Montgomery, President and CEO of eCampus.com
This unified approach not only enhances accessibility to a diverse range of products but also streamlines the process of obtaining Miami-branded merchandise.
Miami University enthusiasts can look forward to a seamless and reliable online shopping experience. Alumni and RedHawk fans can shop online at CampusStore.MiamiOH.edu .
MIAMI PAYROLL OFFICE SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETED 2023 COMPLEX YEAR END REPORTING
Irena Chushak
The shift to remote work and flexible work arrangements has affected the Miami’s workforce in a variety of ways. Remote work means the potential talent pool is no longer limited by geography. It's now possible for Miami to recruit employees not only in multiple locations in Ohio but also across the country. While most changes related to remote work and flexible work arrangements are positive, having employees working across state lines can trigger tax obligations in multiple states and local jurisdictions.
Despite all these challenges, the Payroll team successfully completed the 2023 year end reporting for employees working in:
• 26 different states (compared with 7 states in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic)
• 110 local jurisdictions in Ohio and other states (compared with 11 local jurisdictions in 2019)
Even though Miami outsourced tax payment and filing responsibility to the ADP, tax analysis, compliance, and correct tax work assignments for each employee still remains Miami’s responsibility.
For the calendar year of 2023, the Payroll Office issued 8,808 W-2’s for employees and 405 1042-S forms for international students and scholars for payments covered by international treaties. We made sure that all compensation and tax data are reported to employees and all jurisdictions timely and accurately. The Payroll team provided excellent customer service answering W-2 and tax related questions coming from employees and students.
WEATHERING THE STORM: PREPAREDNESS TIPS FROM MIAMI UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT
MUPD
As Ohio recently observed Severe Weather Awareness Week from March 17-23, it's crucial for all to stay informed and prepared. The Miami University Police Department advises that in the event of severe weather, prompt action is paramount for personal safety and well-being. The MUPD asks that Miami students/staff take time to become familiar with and formulate their own plan on how they would handle a severe weather situation. Severe weather can strike at any time, but in southwestern Ohio, the months of April through July see the most severe thunderstorms.
Familiarize yourself with the emergency procedures outlined on the university's website, particularly regarding severe weather protocols. If a tornado or severe thunderstorm poses an imminent threat to one of Miami's campuses, an emergency text message and email alert will be issued via Miami's RedHawk Alert emergency text messaging service that auto-subscribes students, staff, and faculty. Keep your registered device turned on and close by if severe weather is expected. Additionally, be aware about the city of Oxford's emergency warning system, which undergoes testing on the first Wednesday of each month at noon, unless severe weather is anticipated.
COMMENCEMENT CATERING OPTIONS
Do you or someone you know have a friend or family member who will be graduating in the upcoming Miami University Commencement? As we prepare to celebrate the achievements of our graduates, Miami Catering is excited to offer two long-standing traditions: Grad to Go and Commencement Buffets.
Grad to Go allows families to pre-order celebratory meals for convenient pickup or delivery in Oxford, ensuring a
seamless experience. Our Commencement Buffets offer a chance for families to gather and enjoy delicious cuisine while commemorating this significant milestone. Various packages are available for both options. Join us in honoring our graduates and creating lasting memories at Miami University's Commencement festivities!
Visit the catering website for more information.
MINORS ON CAMPUS AND EMERGENCY PLANNING
Andrea Crane-Coyle
Did you know last year Miami hosted over 15,000 minors participating in programs on campus? Risk Management has been pleased to see the increase of registrations received for minors on campus events and we want to provide additional resources for those in planning the programs.
Have you considered how you might react to an emergency while hosting an event such as a tornado, missing child, or
active assailant? The Protection of Minors website has an Emergency Planning Guide available to download to assist you with your emergency preparedness and pre-planning of events.
In addition to the information found on the website, our office is also available for consultations about new and existing minors on campus events!
