The Resource - First Quarter 2019 by NC Office of State Human Resources

NO RT H CA RO L IN A OF F IC E O F STATE HUM AN RESOURCES

First Quarter 2019

Hometown Strong Boosts Rural Communities NC360 Provides Virtual Tours of State Sites Community Service Leave Supports Employees Who Volunteer

Message from T HE

DIRECTO R In 2018, much of the work of the Office of State Human Resources was focused on transformation of the state’s Classification and Compensation System. This mandate was a massive undertaking that modernized two out-of-date systems – one of which had been in place since 1949 – to create a single process that reflects the evolving workplace needs of state government. In February, we launched a comprehensive labor market analysis to get a better understanding of where we stand on compensation. We are hopeful that the Legislature will recognize the exceptional contributions of state employees by adequately funding a flexible Salary Adjustment Fund. This is vital to the success of the new system, which depends on adequate funding to provide fair and equitable opportunities for current and future state employees. Our team at the Office of State Human Resources is dedicated to helping all state government agencies support their employees. I especially value the guidance provided by my Leadership Team, which transitioned to a new organization in January.

Barbara Gibson

In part, this change was inspired by the pending retirement of Deputy Director Lou Ann Phillips, who will step down effective April 1 after a distinguished career here and at the departments of Public Instruction and State Treasurer, and at UNC-Chapel Hill. Her knowledge, expertise and calm demeanor will be greatly missed. I have promoted Deputy Director Judy Estevez to Chief Deputy. She joined OSHR in August after working as an attorney at the Department of Justice and serving as chair of the State Human Resources Commission. Tammy Penny, who had been HR Director at the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, has joined our team as Deputy Director for HR Programs. Learn more about her on page 17. Additionally, Anita Ward has joined OSHR as our Chief Information Officer. Long-timers may remember that she spent 19 years in essentially this role when OSHR was known as the Office of State Personnel, so she understands HR and our specific data needs. With the commitment of our entire team, OSHR will continue to support state employees as we strive to deliver needed programs and services to the people of North Carolina.

Barbara Gibson, Director Office of State Human Resources

Governor’s Awards for Excellence: Nominate Exceptional Colleagues for State’s Highest Honor Nominations are being accepted for the 2019 Governor’s Awards for Excellence (GAE) through March 29. As the highest honor a state employee may receive for dedicated service to the State of North Carolina and its citizens, GAE provides an opportunity to recognize exemplary state employees whose service and contributions go beyond the call of duty and make a positive difference in the lives of their fellow North Carolinians. The State Employees’ Credit Union is again sponsoring the GAE program, which will publicly recognize honorees at a ceremony and a reception on Oct. 22 at the North Carolina Museum of History. Award recipients are celebrated for their actions – not just through remarks, but also with inspiring videos that share their story. Examples from 2018 may be seen online at http://oshr.nc.gov/2018-governors-award-excellence-recipients. The Office of State Human Resources, which coordinates the GAE program, encourages state employees at all agencies and across North Carolina to nominate colleagues who truly went beyond the scope of their job duties in 2018. Individual employees or teams may be nominated in the following categories:

More information about the program, as well as the online nomination form, is available at excellenceawards.nc.gov. If you have any questions about the nomination process, please contact

• Customer Service • Efficiency and Innovation • Human Relations • Outstanding State Government Service • Public Service • Safety and Heroism

Carol Battle at 919-807-4849 or

A seventh special award, The Spirit of North Carolina, is presented in exceptional circumstances, with past recipients including Kay Yow and Julius Chambers.

carol.battle@nc.gov.

Hometown Strong Leverages State and Local Resources to Boost Rural Communities In small communities, when you face a problem, you solve it by bringing everyone around the table. Neighbor helping neighbor. Hometown Strong brings that same spirit to state government and

for the future? Of the local folks, we ask: What can these agencies help you with?” “I am so appreciative to Governor Cooper and his Hometown Strong Team for taking the time to simply listen to learn about our needs as well as to celebrate our accomplishments side by side with us,” said Michael Freeman, Anson County Schools Superintendent.

gives rural communities a partner they can count on in Raleigh.

In 2017, Secretary Susi Hamilton convened a workgroup of senior staff from every Cabinet agency to meet the Governor’s challenge to better connect state government with our rural communities. “Helping rural North Carolina thrive is one of my top priorities,” said Governor Cooper when the program was publicly launched in February 2018. “We’ll listen to local leaders to make sure they’re getting the support they need to help their communities prosper.”

Assistant Director Mary Penny Kelley meets with community leaders during a Hometown Strong visit to Madison County.

By going in the field and listening to the needs of rural communities, state agencies are better learning the unique challenges and opportunities that rural areas face and are finding ways to support the communities.

Hometown Strong is an initiative that refocuses state government’s approach to addressing the needs of North Carolina’s rural communities. It creates a partnership between state agencies and local leaders to champion rural communities.

“I am so appreciative to Governor Cooper and his Hometown Strong Team for taking the time to simply listen to learn about our needs as well as to celebrate our accomplishments side by side with us,” said Michael Freeman, superintendent of Anson County Schools.

The program first focused on Burke, Edgecombe, Lenoir, Madison, Pasquotank and Robeson counties. Anson, Caswell, Graham, Halifax and Swain counties were added in later in 2018. The goal is to engage around half of the state’s 80 rural counties by the end of the year, with more growth to follow. “At the end of the day,” said Hometown Strong Director Pryor Gibson, “what we’re after is we ask of every state agency in the room: How we ask every state agency in the room: How can we make things better, add value, or plan

Over the past year, the cabinet agencies assembled an Action Team and visited more than a dozen rural counties, listened to their priorities, found templates for success, and used existing state programs to support initiatives that are giving rural areas equal opportunity.

A consistent message heard by Hometown Strong leaders is that small towns are eager for help to revitalize their downtown business districts but lack the time or money to join the national Main Street program. To address this need, the Department of Commerce in January launched Downtown Strong as a Hometown Strong companion to provide similar technical assistance and resources to our rural towns.

digital literacy training to the supporting families. To push digital access even farther, they aim to expand offerings to include Wi-Fi on school buses and bookmobiles. “We hear all the time that access to broadband is a huge issue for small towns, and a barrier for them to attract job-creating businesses,” said Hometown Strong Senior Advisor Mary Penny Kelley. “This is just a start, but by working together to brainstorm and leverage resources, Hometown Strong will help more rural communities get the support they need to grow and succeed.” Joined by Tony Simpson (right), director of the Department of Revenue’s Local Government Division, Pryor Gibson reaches out to community leaders during a Hometown Strong visit to Anson County.

For more information about Hometown Strong, visit https://hometownstrong.nc.gov/. ____________________________________________

Similarly, local libraries have long served as community gathering places and educational partners. Capitalizing on this asset, the Departments of Information Technology and Natural and Cultural Resources are working together to use local libraries to provide mobile hotspots to students and

By Katherine Parker, Public Information Officer for Hometown Strong. Photos by Linda Fox, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

VISIT HALI FAX I N APRI L FOR

North Carolina History and Outdoor Fun

alifax County, one of the counties identified by Governor Cooper’s Hometown Strong initiative, is home to some of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources’ sites, along with other local attractions that make it a great weekend getaway. Come witness North Carolina’s revolutionary fight for independence

from England during the weekend of April 12-13, as Historic Halifax State Historic Site celebrates Halifax Resolves Day. Did you know that North Carolina was the first colony to call for separation from the British Crown? Before the other colonies followed suit in July, the North Carolina Provincial Congress issued the Halifax Resolves on April 12, 1776. North Carolina’s flag bears the date April 12, 1776, in recognition of the

Retired teacher Wrenn Phillips volunteers annually as Town Crier during Halifax Resoves Day.

state’s revolutionary move to independence and its importance to the state’s history.

Historic Halifax commemorates the event with a free celebration each April 12, featuring costumed interpreters, historic building tours, and living history demonstrations. On Saturday, April 13, the site will debut a new event, The Road to Yorktown. This event will feature ongoing living history activities, military drills and weapons firing demonstrations, as well as vignettes of the British occupation, which will help portray the effects of the revolution on the residents of Halifax.

Visitors accustomed to quick copies and instant scans can see the labor involved with operating a manual printing press.

“We have numerous state employees from other sites across the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources that help us out for this event, and many of these employees re-enact. We also have retirees who volunteer here throughout the year,” says Site Manager Carl Burke. “Without them, much of what we do would not be possible.”

After your visit to Historic Halifax, pay a visit to nearby Medoc Mountain State Park. Cast a line in Fishing Creek, hike along the park’s 10 miles of trails, or climb to the upper reaches of Medoc Mountain. The 34-site campground has RV-friendly sites and a bathhouse, and warm-weather group camp facilities are nearby. Other local attractions include Sylvan Heights Bird Park, where you can get an unforgettable up-close experience with over 2,000 waterfowl, parrots, toucans, flamingos, and other exotic birds from around the world; and the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail, where visitors can borrow a bike for a trip along the scenic, historic Roanoke Canal Trail. ____________________________________________ By Michele Walker, Public Information Officer for the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources. All photos courtesy DNCR.

Among last year’s re-enactors were Andrew Duppstadt (right), Education and Interpretation Supervisor for Historic Sites, and site employee Frank McMahon (left), Historic Interpreter II.

State Highway Patrol Promotional Ceremony

(Top left) Newly promoted lieutenants of the State Highway Patrol take their oath of office on Feb. 25 administered by the honorable Associate Justice Anita Earls of the Supreme Court of North Carolina. (Top right; pictured left to right) Pastor Steve Stadtmiller (Colonial Baptist Church), Colonel Glenn M. McNeill Jr., Governor Roy Cooper, Associate Justice Anita Earls, Public Safety Secretary Erik Hooks, Lt. Colonel Alan Melvin, SHP Chaplain Phillip Bland all addressed the honorees. (Bottom) The State Highway Patrol honored 55 sworn and 11 civilian members this week during a promotional ceremony held at Colonial Baptist Church in Cary. (Photos by Ryan Guthrie, NCDPS)

Chance Encounter Leads DMVA to Assist Homeless Vet Desperate for a second chance, a cold and hungry homeless veteran unexpectedly found himself in front of the Department of Military and Veterans Affairs’ (DMVA) headquarters in downtown Raleigh in late January. Installation Coordinator Robert Johnson and Ariel Aponte, a Veterans Services Officer, welcomed the man, provided him with a meal, clothing and assistance with benefits and housing to help him get back on his feet. “The veteran was used to having a lot of doors closed on him because he was homeless and spent time in prison,” said Aponte, a recently retired Army sergeant from Fort Bragg. “He noticed our sign at the front of the building and decided to ask for help. He expected to be turned away, instead we brought him in. We wanted him to know that he was a part of a community, not apart from the community.” Johnson, a retired Army sergeant major, said that there is a lot of stigma for homeless and previously incarcerated veterans because they don’t fit the expected profile of a military veteran. They sometimes don’t get the help they need, even when they ask for it, because people don’t take the time to understand how a veteran ends up in prison or on the streets.

Robert Johnson (left) and Ariel Aponte work to help North Carolina veterans receive the services for which they are eligible. (Photo by Elaine Darby)

“He didn’t think he could walk into the building, let alone receive food, clothes and help applying for housing or benefits,” Johnson continued. “He couldn’t believe people cared so much about him. He told us for the first time in long time he had hope.” While the DMVA works to serve all military personnel, Aponte said staff takes a special interest in serving veterans who need a helping hand. “We collaborate with other state and federal agencies because it takes a village to help veterans who are homeless or previously incarcerated,” Aponte said. “If a someone needs a job, we’ll reach out to NCWorks to coordinate training and job placement programs. If a veteran needs medical care, we’ll reach out to the Veteran’s Administration or the Department of Health and Human Services.” In early February, Johnson called the shelter where the veteran was staying and learned that NCWorks which launched a special portal for veterans in November – helped him create a resume and search for a job. DMVA staff continue to work with the veteran to help him complete his compensation and pension claims. “We see our greatest impact with struggling veterans,” Aponte said. “We are moving the ball for them, we are giving them hope, we are giving them a second chance.” ____________________________________________ By Elaine Darby, Public Information Officer/Graphic Designer for the Office of State Human Resources.

“We collaborate with other state and federal agencies because it takes a village to help veterans who are homeless or previously incarcerated,” Ariel Aponte said.

Resources Available to Help Service Members and Spouses Join Civilian Workforce North Carolina National Guard service members

out to the NCNGEEC for assistance with his resume. The help he received was invaluable, especially in translating his military skills for civilian employment.

embarking on a career change from the military to civilian workforce can find the experience stressful. The North Carolina National Guard Employment and Education Center (NCNGEEC) offers a variety of career services for reservists, their spouses and dependents to make career changes easier.

“I work in the same building with the NCNGEEC, so I was aware of the services they offer,” Mullinax said. “I needed help with my resume, so I sent it to them. A couple of career counselors came to my office, reviewed it, made recommendations and then offered to put it out to different organizations. Once I got my interview with DNCR, they coached me to get ready for the different parts of the interview.”

“Our service is open to everybody in the reserve component, regardless of the branch they’re in – and it’s free,” said Eric Burgos, manager for the NCNGEEC. “We offer career counseling and coaching, resume services, job placement and workshops. We even have a service to help clients get interview attire if they need it.”

One of the job placement tools available to veterans, is a nationwide database sponsored by two nonprofit organizations for service members – Corporate America Supports You and the Military Spouse Corporate Career Network, Burgos said.

The NCNGEEC also partners with colleges and universities to organize campus veterans’ organizations, he added. The group provides networking opportunities to ex-military members on campus, including career coaching and information on career fairs and job openings.

The database is a free resource available to veteran’s spouses and dependents seeking employment opportunities, and by companies looking for military members and families to fill jobs. Organizations post vacancies to the database as they do with other job sites. A number of positions from Temporary Solutions, the state’s temporary staffing service, appear in the database, providing an avenue to state government jobs for service members and their families.

Approximately 300 to 500 exiting service members a month are placed into a variety of jobs with help from the NCNGEEC – from entry level to executive, Burgos noted. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) Safety Director John Mullinax was close to the end of his military career as the director of Safety and Health with the North Carolina National Guard when he decided to reach

Left, Active duty military members and reservists attend a workshop hosted by the NCNGEEC at a Veteran’s Career Fair at NC State University on Sept. 5. NCNGEEC partners with organizations that work with military personnel to host career training and job fairs for veterans. Right, An active duty military member talks to a representative from Allied Universal during a Veteran’s Career Fair. (NCSU photos)

In recognition of the profound importance of spousal commitment to the readiness and well-being of military members, President Ronald Reagan established National Military Spouse Appreciation Day in 1984. This year, it will be observed on May 10, the Friday before Mother’s Day.

“Because Emergency Management is here in the same building with us, we’ve seen a number of veterans get hired through Temporary Solutions,” Burgos said. “Many of our clients shy away from state jobs because of how long it takes to get in. Temporary Solutions is a great option, because it’s the fastest way for people to get their foot in the door. We’ve had some people start off as temporary employees, then get hired directly into permanent positions.” For North Carolina National Guard members thinking about separating from the military, Mullinax recommends the NCNGEEC as the first step in the process. “Go see them, tell them what kind of job you want, and your experience and they will get you ready,” he said. “Whether it’s a cover letter, resume, coaching for an interview or even clothes to wear in the interview, they will help you, start to finish.”

DNCR Safety Director John Mullinax as a lieutenant colonel with the 30th Brigade Combat Team while stationed at Forward Operating Base Falcon near Baghdad during his deployment in 2009-10.

“At the end of the day whether it’s a job with local or state government, or in the private sector, you want the best person for that position,” Burgos said. “We’re just asking that if a veteran and a civilian are competing for the position, and are on the same level, to give the vet a chance.” ____________________________________________ By Elaine Darby, Public Information Officer/Graphic Designer for the Office of State Human Resources.

DNCR Safety Director John Mullinax (Photo by Elaine Darby)

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is now available to state employees through the new MYgroup app. Confidential and free to download, the MYgroup app gives you immediate access to the support and tools you need to be happier, healthier and more productive. The MYgroup app provides online tools, such as interactive learning modules and self-help articles, as well as directions to in-the-moment support for more distressing issues. The app includes MYportal and login credentials remain the same as they are for Mygroup.com. The MYgroup app is available for download at the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you have questions, please contact your agency Human Resources Office.

Revisions to Special Annual Leave Bonus Some employees who used all or part of the 40 hours of Special Annual Leave Bonus (SALB) granted by the Legislature in 2018 discovered an unintended consequence of having leave deducted from both the SALB balance and the employee’s vacation leave in excess of 240 hours that otherwise would be rolled into sick leave balance.

However, the SALB which will now carry forward each year shall be the balance remaining on Dec. 31 of each year plus the number of days that were deducted from vacation leave in excess of 240 hours.

Senate Bill 469 (Technical Corrections) revised this process to eliminate the doubleloss, according to Andrea Clinkscales, Total Rewards Director for the Office of State Human Resources.

Additionally, SB469 clarifies that no employee may be required to take the additional SALB, which may be factored into retirement benefits. These changes are retroactive to July 1, 2018.

Vacation leave in excess of 240 hours on Dec. 31 will continue to be reduced by the amount of SALB used during the year.

If you have questions about SALB, please contact your agency’s Human Resources Office.

Bottom line impact is you’ll only be deducted once for using SALB.

Census 2020: Make NC Count April 1 kicks off the one-year countdown to the 2020 Census – and North Carolina is gearing up to ensure a complete and accurate count of all its residents.

Already mobilizing across the state, the NC Complete Count Commission, in coordination with the U.S. Census Bureau, local and state census liaisons, nonprofit and local community organizations, is working to help raise awareness for the importance of census participation. The commission is working with community partners to identify and overcome barriers and challenges in reaching hard-to-count populations, and preparing our state for the most complete and accurate 2020 census count possible.

Why an Accurate Census Count Matters:

Required by the U.S. Constitution, the census count impacts all North Carolina residents – in both urban and rural communities, big cities and small towns, from Murphy to Manteo. • Census data forms the basis for many important, but often overlooked economic, political, and social decisions that affect our daily lives. It can shape critical decisions for our state, from the number of people who represent North Carolina in Congress, to the amount of federal funds for education, health care and infrastructure, to the data-driven decisions government, businesses and non-profits make. • Federal, state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits and foundations routinely rely on data from the Census to allocate funding, define where services are delivered, and promote economic development. • The decennial Census will determine how more than 100 federal programs will distribute more than $600 billion in funding to the states, including an estimated $16 billion for critical community services, housing, economic development, and other needs and services in North Carolina like Medicaid, Medicare Part B, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Highway Planning and Construction, Title 1 Grants to school districts, and more. An accurate census count is essential for all people and communities of our state. Learn more about the 2020 Census and what you can do to make NC count at census.nc.gov. ____________________________________________ By Nan Sanseverino, Communications Director for the Department of Administration.

Ways You Can Help Make NC Count: • Organize a group or community Complete Count Committee • Share information about the 2020 Census within your networks • Let’s get social! Visit @nccensus on Twitter and Facebook, and use #MakeNCCount • With agency approval, copy and paste the “Make NC Count” logo into your email signature from April 1, 2019 to April 1, 2020 • Share the “Make NC Count” logo in your organization, group, community newsletters and/or websites, and link to North Carolina’s Census website • Apply for a U.S. Census job in North Carolina – from field work to management (more information at census.nc.gov) • Invite a Census liaison to speak with your organization or group • Subscribe to Census 2020 email updates Visit census.nc.gov for more information on upcoming events and to learn how you can help make North Carolina count.

Larkins Award Presented Posthumously • Michael Lockamy, Department of Public Safety, Correction Enterprises • Terry Miller, North Carolina School for the Deaf • Susan Newton, Department of Public Safety • Tina Riley-Humphrey, North Carolina Legislature • Tish Singletary, Department of Health and Human Safety, Office of Rural Health • Tonya Smith, North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics • Vicki Teem, District Attorney’s Office, District 30 • Louis Trosch, Jr., Administrative Office of the Courts • Arin B. White, Durham County Office of the Public Defender The Larkins Award was presented by Department of Public Safety Secretary Erik Hooks, who praised WardlawBrown as “someone who used every opportunity to build bridges between people.”

Bobbi Wardlaw-Brown

“For more than 20 years, she served the people of North Carolina as a member of the Office of State Human Resources, with a particular interest in Equal Employment Opportunity,” Hooks said. “Her co-workers view her dedication to EEO law and guidance as more of a passion than a career, reflecting her commitment to diversity and equality in the workplace for all North Carolina state employees.”

Bobbi Wardlaw-Brown, a former employee of the Office of State Human Resources, was posthumously honored on Jan. 19 as the recipient of the 2019 John R. Larkins Award in recognition of exemplary commitment to justice and equality in the workplace and in our communities. The award was announced during the annual North Carolina State Employee’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance Day Program at First Baptist Church.

Outside of the office, Wardlaw-Brown volunteered in her community, especially in roles that allowed her to advocate for and engage with issues facing African American women.

A career state employee at OSHR’s Learning and Development Center, Wardlaw-Brown died in September. The award was accepted on her behalf by her brother and sister-in-law, Ricardo and Renee Wardlaw.

“Bobbi’s loss was deeply felt by everyone in our agency, as well as the many people she trained and mentored during her 20 years at OSHR,” said State Human Resources Director Barbara Gibson. “We are grateful that her extraordinary commitment to human and race relations has been recognized with the Larkins Award.”

Other nominees for the Larkins Award include: • Tanya Bass, Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Minority Health and Health Disparities • Elisa Chinn-Gary, Clerk of Superior Court Mecklenburg County, Judicial District 26

Wardlaw-Brown also was recognized posthumously in October at the graduation ceremony for the North Carolina Certified Public Manager Program. As part of the rigorous leadership program, she completed a new supervisory training program as her capstone project.

• Angelina Harvey, Department of Revenue • Michelle Lanier, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, State Historic Sites

Governor Cooper welcomed a capacity crowd at the Jan. 19 State Employees’ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Observance Program at First Baptist Church in downtown Raleigh.

Bobbi Wardlaw-Brown’s brother and sister-in-law, Ricardo and Renee Wardlaw (center), join 2019 Larkins Award nominees recognized during the program.

From left, Secretaries Mandy Cohen (DHHS), Susi Hamilton (DNCR) and Machelle Sanders (DOA) link hands to sing “We Shall Overcome.”

Charlotte Mayor Vi Liles delivered rousing remarks, urging local governments to recognize the roles of diverse contributors.

Senator Jay Chaudhuri of Raleigh, the first Indian American elected to the General Assembly, introduced Governor Cooper.

All photos by Jayce Williams, Department of Administration.

NEW PROJECT PROFILE:

NC360 Enables Virtual Tours of Historical and Cultural Sites Across North Carolina

(From left) Aaron Blackmon, Johann Quintero and iCenter Director Deante Tyler assembling the Google Trekker device.

The Department of Information Technology (DIT) is not just about making sure

each agency has its internet up and running. The department is about connecting North Carolina and its residents, whether it is through healthcare, education, public safety or cybersecurity. DIT has developed a new project – NC360 – that allows North Carolina’s residents the opportunity to use new and emerging technology to explore the state in an immersive way.

Inspired by the 100th anniversary of North Carolina State Parks in 2016, the Innovation Center (iCenter), housed within DIT, mapped historical and cultural sites across the state using the Google Street View Trekker, a backpack with Google’s Street View cameras mounted to the top. The backpack is just under four feet tall weighing a total of 44 pounds, including an eight-hour waterproof battery. The camera dome on the top of the backpack contains 15 fivemegapixel cameras that take a picture every two and a half seconds, each one slightly overlapping.

After the site was trekked, the iCenter sent a memory card back to Google where, using proprietary software, they stitch the images together. When completed, the viewer gets a seamless 360-degree experience. With help from DIT, North Carolina State Parks employees and local college interns, 30 sites were captured in 2016 and 20 more in 2018. As the saying goes, NC360 covers sites from “Murphey to Manteo.”

Former iCenter Director Eric Ellis walks the grounds of Tryon Palace.

students accustomed to emerging technology and offers a little fun in the classroom. NC360 also can help you plan a trip, from exploring new sites to determining the accessibility and roughness of trails. First responders can also use NC360 to become more familiar with terrain before going on rescue missions.

Deante Tyler exploring Stone Mountain State Park.

The project expanded to include 360-degree imagery from other cameras, including those that capture indoor imagery. Currently, the NC360 has indoor imagery from the Executive Mansion and State Capitol with other sites in the works. Future plans for the project also include drones.

“Working on the NC360 initiative has been a very rewarding experience,” said Deante Tyler, director of the iCenter. “While completing the project, we were able to experience parts of North Carolina we hadn’t seen before and met lots of great North Carolinians while working different locations.” The project, which is the largest-scale, state governmentsponsored 360-degree imagery initiative to date, has potential applications for education, tourism, accessibility, and safety and emergency response. The NC360 project can be used in many different ways, from education to economic development. Teachers can use NC360 in the classroom, as supplemental material for their lessons. Teachers in the western part of the state can explore coastal sites, and vice versa. NC360 also gets

NCSU interns also filmed at the Wright Brothers Memorial.

To view NC360 videos and learn more about the project, visit www.nc.gov/nc360 and follow the hashtag #NC360. ____________________________________________ By Maggie Bizzell, Advisor for Strategic Communications at the Department of Information Technology. All photos courtesy Mary-Alice Warren (DIT). Interns from NCSU helped trek at the Bodie Island Lighthouse.

M E E T

T H E

D I R E C T O R :

Barbara Gibson got her first good look at the processes that drive human resources before she was old enough to apply for a work permit in her home state of Wisconsin. “My mom and step dad owned a newspaper and radio station, so my siblings and I all had jobs there,” recalls Gibson, director of the Office of State Human Resources. “I was well aware always of the issues with personnel: Who was a great employee, who was not a great employee. But I never expected HR to be a career.”

Barbara and Pryor Gibson greeted by Rameses at a UNC basketball game.

Pryor says I took the first cow going south. It was a great With more than 24 years of service in lead HR roles in place to grow up. I think it made me a hardy person. But I North Carolina state government, and several more in the wouldn’t want to live there again. private sector, Gibson has indeed made a career of human resources. It’s also a big I had a happy, creative childhood. From ages 6 to part of her home life, in 16, I took piano lessons. I also got involved in school that her husband, Pryor musicals. When I was a high school senior, I played Gibson, is a former state Lucy in “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” I got to legislator and policy pull the football away. advisor. He now serves as director of Governor Who and what influenced you as a child? Cooper’s Hometown Obviously, my mom. Just seeing her work all the time Strong initiative which was a strong influence on me. She balanced having seeks to leverage state six kids while running a newspaper. My parents were and local resources to two totally different people. I wanted to do all the good benefit rural communities things from both of them. I saw the hard work and Then-Attorney General Roy Cooper across North Carolina. The paying attention to people that she did and how, no presents Barbara Gibson her certificate in 2013 for 20 years of state service. couple has two children, matter how busy, she always made time for us. But Ry, a college junior, and my dad was huge fun to be around. Even when I was Emma, a high school senior. a teenager, we’d hold hands and skip through the streets of Madison to get ice cream. Barbara Gibson was appointed to her current role in January 2017 by Governor Cooper, with whom she Who are your favorite work mentors? previously worked as HR Director at the Department of From a HR standpoint, it was Ann Cobb and Ronnie Justice during the 16 years he served as attorney general. Condrey. I was connected to them both from the start. Ann, who worked for OSHR for many years, gave me the steady, Gibson’s OSHR tenure to date has been focused optimistic view of HR’s potential. Ronnie, largely on the development and implementation who I’m grateful to have as my special of the new Statewide Compensation System, advisor, is the realist. He’s been in state which was launched in June 2018 to replace two government 45 years and can give outdated systems – one of which had been in you the back story to everything – why place since 1949. The process was initiated by something might look good but won’t 2013 legislation, but previous efforts had stalled. happen the way you’d like. While emphasizing that the transformation of The other person is Kristi Jones, chief Classification and Compensation is an ongoing of staff to Governor Cooper. Not only process – one that needs adequate funding to does she have the perfect wardrobe, but be effective – Gibson says the new system more during those years of working with her accurately reflects evolving workplace roles at Justice, she taught me about bridging Ronnie Condrey, special advisor needed to effectively deliver state government the gap from HR to the manager at OSHR. services. A contractor currently is conducting a perspective. She has a good heart and comprehensive labor market analysis, as well as studying would always lead the organization to doing the right thing, the new system, to recommend ways the state can enhance which was very supportive of HR. its efforts to recruit and retain top talent (see page 21). Of course, I’ll always be grateful to Harry Payne for hiring What was your childhood like? me into state government as Human Resources Director at I lived in Madison area, and also close to Green Bay. the Department of Labor.

What was your college major? Did that major lead to your career?

lifetime game of golf. You remember that time you got a hole in one and you were really excited. It doesn’t happen often for me, but that’s OK. I’ll take it when it does.

I studied psychology, which turned out to be impractical as a career. When I found out I had to do experiments with lab rats, I stopped. It was that simple. After graduation, I moved to Florida to work for Disney, which I loved, but I was making very little money. I heard about a program back in Wisconsin for Industrial Relations, which is HR and labor law. It was a financial complement to my no-money psychology degree. I liked the idea that I could complete the program in 18 months, but once I got there, it really clicked. It was business and psychology; people and numbers. It’s the mix I like. It’s certainly not boring. After graduate school, I came to North Carolina to work with IBM.

What are your hobbies?

My children and my husband are my hobbies. I am big on taking photos of my family, doing photo projects. I have a little gym in my house and can’t imagine not working out in the morning before work. It really gets my adrenalin going. I often read The Insider or a project report when I’m on the treadmill. Time flies and I get some work done before I even show up. There’s something about getting up and getting it done. I feel better all day.

What is your vision for OSHR?

To make HR a positive component to helping managers and agencies do what they do for North Carolina – not a drudgery. When we came in, the Statewide Compensation System project was completely stalled, but we had a deadline. It had to get done. I would have preferred to focus on data analytics to really professionalize the HR function and direct attention to proven areas of need; to add value with a robust training and development program, both for supervisors and for HR; and to ensure that processes are applied in a consistent manner.

Barbara Gibson reads to pre-school students in Wendell as part of 2018 National Volunteer Week.

What would you like more people to know about working for state government?

Do you have a favorite movie?

Ones that are funny. I like any romcom. I should really say “Last of the Mohicans,” which was a great movie, but also, Pryor built the set. The fort on the side of the hill and all the little structures; he was the contractor that did all of that. I love to watch it and hear about how it was built and filmed.

That said, I am proud of my team for all they are doing to implement these massive projects. In the end, hopefully, the state will be a more competitive employer because of it.

Gibson and Kristi Jones, Governor Cooper’s Chief of Staff, prepare to cut the ribbon to officially begin the 2018 Wellness & Safety Expo.

It’s unfortunate that state employees are not recognized for all the different types of work we do and their impacts on everyday life in North Carolina. Instead, state government too often is viewed as just a bureaucracy. I’d like to shout out that state employees do a lot of amazing things that are needed to make our state a great place.

State government provides meaningful, valuable work and good benefits, including retirement. I was just saying this to my aunt the other But we cannot forget “The Grinch.” day; I don’t get up every day thinking, I have always loved the Grinch and I “I can’t wait until I’m retired.” But I do use the theme music as my ringtone. think about how lucky I am that I’ll Gibson talks with Phil Addison, Harnett County I just found it very funny to include still be relatively young when I retire, organizer for Baptists on Mission, while touring this ugly, nasty creature during and that I am enjoying what I’m damage caused by Hurricane Florence. Christmas. When Jim Carrey played doing now. I don’t wish my life away. it, it was the best. That line, when he says, “Be it ever so I genuinely believe that it’s an honor to be a state employee humble, there’s no place like home” – and he lived in that and serve the great state of North Carolina. cave. It cracks me up every time. ____________________________________________

What motivates you?

Having things turn out well. If it worked out well, let’s keep going and see what else we can do right. It applies whether it’s working out and meeting fitness goals, pushing through projects at work, how you raise your kids. It’s like a giant

By Jill Warren Lucas, Communications Director for the Office of State Human Resources. Portraits of Barbara Gibson by Mathew Waehner, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.

Meet the new DEPUT Y

DI RECTO R Tammy Penny followed in her mother Ruth Dupree’s footsteps to pursue a career in public sector human resources. Today, she even works for one of the same agencies. From the mid-1960s through 1981, Dupree worked for the State Personnel Division, which evolved into the Office of State Human Resources (OSHR). “She started with a smaller division in early 1960s that merged with the State Personnel Division,” said Penny, who joined OSHR in January as Deputy Director for HR Programs. Her mother was promoted to the Department of Correction (now Department of Public Safety), where she continued her career until retiring in 2000.

Tammy Penny (Photo courtesy DNCR)

Penny worked for the Department of Correction through the merger into the Department of Public Safety, advancing through several roles over 18 years. She was involved in the HR transition in creation of DPS from merging of Departments of Correction, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, and Crime Control and Public Safety in 2012. In 2015, after joining the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) as its HR Director, she oversaw the transfer of major natural divisions from Department of Environment Quality to DNCR. Additionally, Penny has been part of various program implementations from the HR/Payroll system in 2008 to the launch of NCVIP and, most recently, the new Statewide Compensation System in 2018. “I am excited to be part of the OSHR team,” Penny said. “I look forward to sharing my practical experience from large- and mediumsize agencies in advancing the HR programs and initiatives at a statewide level. With the collaboration of the OSHR staff and agencies’ HR resources, the HR programs within state government continue to grow and make state government an attractive employer.”

Ruth Dupree (circled) is seen with the State Personnel Division team in 1971. (Photo courtesy Ruth Dupree)

Human Resources

We’re here to assist you by answering your human resource questions and concerns.

l just spent a lot of time checking dates of external training to update my resume. Is it possible to add these to my LMS history to avoid this hassle?

Yes, you can add external training and certifications to your LMS Transcript, and we agree that this is a great way to keep track of professional development. Just log in to the NC Learning Center (through mybeacon.its.state.nc.us/), then follow these steps.

Please email them to the.resource@nc.gov.

I’ve heard about an 11-Month Rule and a 12-Month Rule for temporary employees hired by state agencies. Are they the same thing? Why must temporary employees take a break in service after 11 months?

1. Click on “My Training and Transcript.” You’ll be directed to the “Active” portion of your Transcript. 2. In the upper right portion, directly across from your name you’ll see three dots (…)

Yes, it refers to the same thing. Agencies periodically ask to exceed the 12-month limit on temporary appointments. OSHR General Counsel Lars Nance explains that three factors weigh against breaking this rule. First, the Legislature, as the controller of the purse, expects any agency that identifies a job need that exceeds a year to fill out a worksheet No. 2 and request funding. Second, after Vizcaino v. Microsoft Corp., it became clear that even temporary employees and independent contractors who signed statements that they were entitled to no benefits could be made “common law” employees by the employer’s actions and continued employment.

a) Click on the dots (…), options will appear in a dropdown menu b) Select “Add External Training” c) Complete the required fields on the form d) Upload attachments (proof of completion or certificate) e) Verify information and submit 3. The Training item will now appear on your transcript. You will need to click “Mark Complete” tab to the right of the title. a) You’ll need to read the acknowledgment statement and submit b) The training will reflect a status of “Pending Completion Approval” c) The item will be sent to your manager for review and approval

Finally, in the Sanders v. OSP case, evidence showed agencies were not complying with the 12-month rule. Judge Titus ordered OSP to submit a plan for monitoring agency compliance which resulted in an Executive Order and, subsequently, a statute requiring agencies to utilize Temporary Solutions for their temporary staffing needs.

Emails From NCHRCommunications OSHR occasionally hears from employees and agencies with questions about emails sent by NCHRCommunications (nchrcommunications-bounces@lists.ncmail.net). These are legitimate and sent by OSHR through DIT’s Mailman platform to provide information ranging from Adverse Weather updates, requests to participate in statewide or regional surveys, and discount offers from the North Carolina Symphony and other organizations. We appreciate the concerns of employees who have been trained to recognize potential phishing attempts or other security risks. In this case, however, NCHRCommunications is a bona fide resource, especially for sharing urgent or emergency communications. If you ever have questions about an email from this source, please contact your agency’s IT office or call OSHR at 919-807-4800.

Spring Miles to Wellness Challenge It’s time to register for the Spring Miles for Wellness Challenge 19! State employees in all agencies and locations are encouraged to join this team wellness program, which assigns points to walking, running and many other forms of healthful activity, including your gym routine. The eight-week event begins on March 25 and will conclude on May 19.

The Miles for Wellness Challenge 19: Trail of Many Rails, will focus on travel by rail. Participating teams will begin their virtual journey in North Carolina at the Transportation Museum in Spencer and visit railroad sites in Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, California, Wyoming, Wisconsin, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New Hampshire. Participants will return to North Carolina to finish their adventure at Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock. Miles for Wellness Challenge 19 begins March 25, rolling into the wheelhouse at the end of the line on May 19. Use the Miles for Challenge 19 registration form to sign up your team to participate. For questions or more information, contact MilesforWellness@nc.gov, or 919-807-4800.

Miles for Wellness Challenge 19 starts at the Transportation Museum in Spencer and concludes way down the line at Tweetsie Railroad in Blowing Rock.

N C J O B R E A DY:

Finish Line Grants Making a Difference for North Carolina Community College Students plans for the future and how the new program had helped them. “All of them were close to dropping out until they got the Finish Line Grant,” he said afterward.

Governor Cooper visited Alamance Community College in January to meet students who received Finish Line Grants.

Since the initial launch of the program, and particularly after Hurricane Florence devastated numerous North Carolina families, state officials saw the need to expand eligibility to help more students. Now, students only need to be 50 percent of the way through their training program to receive aid, rather than the original 75 percent threshold. In addition, the maximum GPA requirement that local partners can set is now 2.0. Other eligibility requirements apply.

Governor Cooper is encouraging state employees and partners to raise awareness among students in their communities about Finish Line Grants. “We need to get the word out in many different ways to be sure all students are aware of the Finish Line Grant opportunity,” he said. “If students don’t know help is available, they may not ask.”

In the summer of 2018, as part of his NC Job Ready initiative to promote an educated workforce, Governor Roy Cooper announced the Finish Line Grants program to help community college students complete their training when they are faced with unforeseen barriers.

The Governor noted that the program is built on local partnerships between community colleges and workforce boards. “I know the professionals on the front lines at both community colleges and NCWorks Career Centers are constantly asked to do more with less, and I appreciate every effort to help our students enter the workforce,” he said. “I am grateful for everything they do to make North Carolina job ready.”

“Far too many students have challenges other than academic reasons for not finishing school,” Governor Cooper said in a recent interview. “A car repair should not keep someone from graduating, but it can. The Finish Line Grants program helps community college students who face unexpected financial emergencies by giving grants of up to $1,000 per semester, so students can finish their training and get a good-paying job.”

For more information on Finish Line Grants, visit www.ncjobready.nc.gov/finish-line-grants. ____________________________________________

Leveraging federal funds and the collaboration of the Commerce department, local workforce development boards and community colleges, more than 460 Finish Line Grants have been awarded to help students across the state with expenses like child care, utilities, medical needs or transportation.

By Andrew Beal, Information and Communications Specialist at the Department of Commerce, Division of Workforce Solutions. (Photo by Paul E. Barker, Office of the Governor)

In January, Governor Cooper visited Alamance Community College, where he heard from some students about their

Meet the new

STATE LIBRARIAN

Labor Market Study Underway as Part of Statewide Compensation System Analysis OSHR has awarded a contract to Mercer, a nationally renowned human resources consulting firm, to perform an updated Labor Market Analysis for the new Statewide Compensation System. As requested in the RFP, the work done by Mercer will cover five components to the analysis, with deliverables for each. These include:

Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Susi Hamilton has appointed Timothy Owens as the new State Librarian of North Carolina. A native of Harbinger, N.C., Owens began his library career at Neuse Regional Library in Kinston, followed by service at Perkins Library at Duke University and in Library Development at the State Library of North Carolina. He has served as President of the Association for Rural & Small Libraries. Owens served as a senior program officer at the Institute of Museum and Library Services in Washington, D.C., before returning to North Carolina to become Assistant State Librarian in 2017. He earned his Master of Library Science at UNC-Chapel Hill and holds a master’s degree in music from Meredith College. “I am truly delighted to have Timothy as our new state librarian,” said Secretary Hamilton. “He brings so much energy and experience to this role, and I know our libraries will continue to flourish under his leadership.”

Officers, SBI Agents, Wildlife Law Enforcement, etc. • University System Classifications: Vendor will assess and recommend whether the competency-based career banding system continues to be used, if University classifications should transition into the State’s new classification system, or if a separate Pay Plan should be developed specific to the University system.

• Competitive Labor Market Report: Mercer will report on the competitiveness of the State’s compensation (salaries and wages) as viewed from local, regional and national perspectives. Vendor will partner with OSHR in the identification of benchmark job classifications that are most appropriate to use for external market pricing.

• Policies and Practices: Vendor will conduct an analysis of the State’s compensation and salary administration policies and practices with best practice recommendations, ensuring sound fiscal stewardship and adherence to legal and regulatory compliance audit and reporting requirements.

• Pay Plan Analysis: Vendor will examine each of the State’s multiple pay plans (i.e., salary structures and ranges) and recommend adjustments that support the State’s Total Reward Philosophy.

OSHR will collaborate with agencies to gather data and input throughout the process, as well as provide periodic updates to HR Directors as Mercer progresses through the review and analysis phases.

• Law Enforcement Pay Plan: Vendor will assess and develop a Pay Plan, separate from the State Highway Patrol Pay Plan, that accounts for agency law enforcement classifications such as but not limited to: Alcohol Law Enforcement, DMV Law Enforcement, Forestry Law Enforcement, Marine Fisheries Law Enforcement, Police

National Volunteer Week Community Service Leave Supports Employees Who Volunteer In recognition of April 7-13 as National Volunteer Week, state employees are reminded that they are provided time during traditional work hours to engage in activities at their child’s school or volunteer at community-based nonprofit agencies in North Carolina. With supervisor approval, full-time, permanent employees may use up to 24 hours of Community Service Leave (CSL) each year. Part-time, probationary or time-limited employees may likewise use up to 12 hours of CSL. Additional CSL is available to state employees who dedicate themselves to tutor or mentor students, or who volunteer in a literacy program in any public school. Statewide, 19,648 state employees used 285,703 CSL hours in 2018 for a vast array of volunteer projects and to become more involved in their child’s education.

Commerce Employee Driven to End Child Trafficking Years spent in Balkan countries during and after college sparked Beth Friedrich’s interest in working on issues of abuse and exploitation of minors. “The trafficking of young women and girls was a terrible problem in many of those countries,” said Friedrich, deputy general counsel at the Department of Commerce. “I realized that if I wanted to do something about it, I wasn’t going to be able to do it from my couch.” It was that urge to end child trafficking that led Friedrich to volunteer with SAFEChild, a Raleigh-based nonprofit that seeks to create healthy families. The organization intervenes in the lives of families who are in crisis – children may have been removed from a home already due to abuse issues or may be teetering on the edge of that.

Following Hurricanes Florence and Michael in 2018, the CSL policy was temporarily expanded to allow employees flexibility in following Governor Cooper’s call for neighbor to help neighbor. With an additional 16 hours of CSL specifically provided to support hurricane recovery efforts, 1,224 employees in the hard-hit 12-county Southeast Region Property Zone used 15,715 hours of CSL for such tasks as mucking out flooded homes, cooking meals for displaced residents, and helping children catch up on school work. Statewide, 11,158 employees dedicated 117,231 CSL hours during this period to help people in affected communities. Many state employees were connected with community organizations in need during this time by the Commission of Volunteering and Community Service, also known as VolunteerNC. The agency serves to link North Carolina volunteers with nonprofits across the state for service opportunities throughout the year. Individuals or groups seeking volunteer opportunities are encouraged to visit https://www.nc.gov/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities, or email volunteer@nc.gov. Additionally, volunteers can find local groups seeking volunteers by entering their zip code in the Points of Light website. Check both sites often as more organizations will be added.

“There’s a window of opportunity that SAFEChild occupies where they can step in, teach a parent alternative discipline methods and ways to cope with anxiety, anger and frustration that they may not be aware of,” added Friedrich. “As far as I’m concerned they save lives and families.” Friedrich feels fortunate to have access to 24 hours of community service leave each year, and she’s using that to assist in the development of the

Wake County Child Abuse Prevention Plan (WCCAPP). In addition, Friedrich co-chairs the group’s Outreach and Education subcommittee, and she’s working to recruit businesses to spread the word about resources available to prevent child abuse and neglect. “While SAFEChild primarily deals with issues of neglect and physical abuse, there are those within the working groups who work on preventing sexual violence against children,” Friedrich said. “And I feel fortunate that I’m able to have an impact in fighting this evil.” Wake Network of Care is an example of resources available to the public and searchable without shame or fear of judgment. SAFEChild also works to connect parents and caregivers to the help they need. The organization is also developing an asset map to identify gaps and overlaps in services. Friedrich wants to encourage all state employees to take advantage of their community service leave and get involved in the community. “Ask yourself first what interests you,” she said. “Then do a Google search for volunteer organizations in your area that do the type of work you’re interested in. Reach out to those organizations and offer to volunteer. The state gives you the time and it’s really up to you to use it.” The mother of a 16-month-old, Friedrich wants her daughter to know that there are people in this world who will do good for fellow citizens that they’ve never met before, and who expect nothing in return. “I want my daughter to grow up believing that volunteering and public service is something that she should expect to do, just as my mother taught me.” In addition to National Volunteer Month, April is also National Child Abuse Prevention Month. For information, visit www.preventchildabusenc.org, a partner organization of SAFEChild.

Beth Friedrich meets with a client at SAFEchild.

“I want my daughter to grow up believing that volunteering and public service is something that she should expect to do, just as my mother taught me,” Beth Friedrich said. If interested in volunteering with SAFEChild, visit http://safechildnc.org or contact Ginger Espino at gespino@safechildnc.org. _______________________________ By Beth Gargan, Deputy Secretary for Communications and External Affairs at the Department of Commerce.

workplace modifications to pregnant employees of any North Carolina agency, department, board or commission under the purview of the Governor’s Office. The order also directs cabinet agencies to prevent discrimination, harassment, and retaliation against pregnant state employees. The Office of State Human Resources is educating agency managers and staff about pregnancy protection obligations. The executive order also encourages cabinet agencies to promote the policy among contractors and subcontractors. The executive order addresses a gap in protections for North Carolina’s workforce and promotes health among women, children and families. The Department of Administration’s 2018 Status of Women report found that the share of women in our labor force decreased from 2002 to 2016 despite significant economic growth and population growth over the same period. The U.S. Department of Labor also lists North Carolina as one of just four states that provides no state-level protection against pregnancy discrimination. Protections and modifications for pregnant workers also boost workplace productivity, retention and morale and reduce the risk of poor birth outcomes.

Governor Cooper issued

Executive Order 82 in December, highlighting North Carolina’s commitment to improving opportunities for women in the workforce, supporting healthy families, and strengthening our economy. The executive order calls for the State of North Carolina to extend workplace protections and modifications to pregnant employees.

“Women make our state and our economy stronger every day,” Governor Cooper said. “We must do our part to make it possible for women to work safely and comfortably throughout their pregnancies.”

“Providing workplace protections for women who are expectant mothers is critical for healthy families and a healthy economy,” Governor Cooper said. “These protections will encourage wellness and help our state retain experienced, talented workers to stay economically competitive.”

Strengthening North Carolina’s workforce is a primary focus for the Cooper administration. Earlier this year, Governor Cooper announced NC Job Ready, a workforce development initiative built on three core principles: skills and education attainment, employer leadership, and local innovation.

The executive order affirms North Carolina’s commitment to developing a robust workforce by enriching work environments and retaining skilled employees. The order extends protections and 24

“Providing workplace protections for women who are expectant mothers is critical for healthy families and a healthy economy. These protections will encourage wellness and help our state retain experienced, talented workers to stay economically competitive.” — Governor Roy Cooper

Fact Sheet: Executive Order 82 Governor Cooper is working to help North Carolinians become healthier, better educated, and have more money in their pockets so that they can live more abundant, purposeful lives. The linchpin to achieving that goal is helping North Carolinians find and secure good-paying jobs that sustain families. But too often, pregnant workers are sidelined from their careers when small adjustments would enable them to keep working. Employees deserve the option to continue working throughout their pregnancies in a safe, healthy, and comfortable manner. Supporting pregnant state government employees promotes family health and helps North Carolina recruit and retain a talented workforce to provide the best services to North Carolinians.

What does Executive Order 82 do? Executive Order 82 establishes that it is the policy of Governor Cooper’s administration to provide pregnant employees with needed workplace protections and modifications. The executive order mandates that state agencies provide requested

workplace adjustments to pregnant state employees unless providing the adjustments would impose an undue hardship on the agency. It also requires the Office of State Human Resources to educate agencies’ management and other staff about the agencies’ pregnancy protection obligations and employee rights and to take any additional steps required to prevent discrimination, harassment or retaliation against pregnant state employees.

Why is Executive Order 82 necessary?

Governor Cooper recognizes that North Carolina state government is made stronger by women, who make up a majority of its workforce. Efforts to improve employee wellness and health are vital to recruiting and retaining the best talent. Research suggests that protections and modifications for pregnant workers promote physical and mental health, increase workplace productivity, retention, and morale, and reduce the risk of poor birth outcomes. Workplace accommodations are often

free or low-cost to the employer, and may include providing more frequent or longer breaks, a change in seating or workstation arrangements, and adjustments to uniforms or dress codes.

Whom does Executive Order 82 support?

Executive Order 82 extends protections and workplace modifications to pregnant employees of any North Carolina department, agency, board or commission under the oversight of the Governor’s Office. It also requires executive branch agencies to promote contractor and subcontractor compliance with the executive order, including establishing whether there is existing authority to bar contractors and subcontractors from state contracts for failure to adopt similar protections. State agencies not under the jurisdiction of the Governor’s Office as well as local governments and private employers are encouraged but not required to comply with the executive order.

Can SECU help you file?

For more than a decade, State Employees’ Credit Union has offered tax return preparation to its eligible members. This tax season is no exception. Tax preparers will be available to help qualified members through SECU’s Low-Cost Tax Preparation Program. To be eligible, you must be a Credit Union member, have tax reporting items within the scope of our program, and have only lived and worked (if employed) in North Carolina during the tax year.

Are You Prepared for Tax Time? If you will be filing a tax return this year, there are a few steps you should take to ensure you have everything needed to submit accurate information to the IRS and/or Department of Revenue. First, be on the lookout for any mail labeled “Important Tax Document(s).” These items will generally be needed to file your return. Before filing, make sure you have all the necessary documents. Filing without all required items can lead to amended returns and additional tax liability.

Some commonly forgotten items are:

• W-2 from second, temporary, or parttime jobs • Forms 1099-INT or 1099-DIV reporting interest and dividends paid to you by your financial institution or from your investments

• Forms 1099-R reporting distributions from IRAs, annuities, or other retirement plans • Forms 1099-B reporting gains or losses from investment transactions • Forms 1099-Misc reporting work you did as a contractor or other miscellaneous income Next, gather receipts for expenses that may be deductible or qualify you for a credit. Common examples of deductible expenses are charitable contributions, medical expenses, and local and state taxes paid. Expenses such as daycare costs or tuition, fees, and books for higher education may qualify you for a tax credit. Finally, don’t wait until April 15 to file! Missing items are often discovered during the tax preparation process. Give yourself enough time to gather further information if necessary.

The fee for the program is $75, which includes preparation and electronic filing of the federal and state returns. Generally, the fee is due once members receive a copy of their completed returns; however, eligible members may opt to utilize SECU’s Fee From Refund service, which automatically debits the fee from a Credit Union account once the federal refund is received. This option is available to participating members who will receive a refund of at least $75, opt to electronically file their tax returns, and choose to have their federal tax refund directly deposited into their Credit Union checking, share, money market share, or CashPoints® Global (CPG) account. Best of all, the Fee From Refund program is available at no additional charge. If you will be utilizing SECU’s Low-Cost Tax Preparation program, you will need a “Getting Started Kit.” This packet of documents must be completed by all members wishing to have their tax returns completed at the Credit Union. To expedite the process, members are encouraged to complete the kit prior to bringing in their tax information for return preparation. These kits are available for pickup at any SECU branch and online at www.ncsecu. org. For details, visit the website or contact your local SECU branch. _______________________________ This article was provided by the State Employees’ Credit Union.

NCDOR Warns of Scams Targeting Taxpayers Agency Offers Guidance to Help Combat Identity Theft and Fraud The Department of Revenue (NCDOR) recently issued a warning to taxpayers to be aware of criminals

numerous payment options; taxpayers may choose the method that is most convenient for them. • NCDOR will not initiate communications to demand immediate payment with taxpayers via text message, social media or email. • NCDOR will not demand a taxpayer pay taxes without first giving the taxpayer an opportunity to question or appeal the amount owed.

fraudulently posing as tax agents to collect fake payments. Over the past few years, NCDOR has received increasing reports of criminals calling taxpayers and trying to intimidate and collect payment for nonexistent tax debts. These tactics may involve criminals impersonating state and federal tax agents or could involve mimicking (or “spoofing”) legitimate phone numbers before redirecting calls.

NCDOR will require additional customer verification from taxpayers who call the agency. This verification may involve Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and is part of the agency’s enhanced identity theft prevention measures.

“This tax season, we are working harder than ever to prevent identity theft and stop refund fraud,” said Secretary Ronald G. Penny. “We also want North Carolinians to know what the NCDOR will and will not do so that taxpayers can protect themselves from fraud.”

Due to NCDOR’s enhanced identity theft prevention measures, some refunds may take longer than normal, which is eight weeks for electronically-filed returns and 12 weeks for paper returns.

NCDOR has regular processes and procedures which govern how agency personnel may pursue past due taxes. The following are criminal tactics that NCDOR representatives will not use: • NCDOR will not contact a taxpayer in person unless the agency has first attempted to provide the taxpayer with notification(s) via mail. • NCDOR will not require a taxpayer to use any specific payment method unless the taxpayer is in the collection process for past-due liabilities. The agency offers

For more information, including specific information for taxpayers being audited or if a tax liability is in collections, please visit www.ncdor.gov. ____________________________________________ By Schorr Johnson, Public Affairs Director at the Department of Revenue.

N ORT H CA ROL I N A OFFICE O F STATE HUM AN RESO URCES

BA R BA R A G IB S O N , Director, Office of State Human Resources JILL WA R R E N LUCAS, Communications Director E L A IN E DARBY, Public Information Officer

the.resource@nc.gov Design by Patricia Campbell | Cover photograph by Mathew Waehner, Department of Natural and Cultural Resources