Faculty/Staff - NMU Events and Announcements

Faculty/Staff

The December issue of the Personal Best/HOPE Health newsletter has arrived.  Please take a moment for yourself to read and enjoy this issue, and remember to share it with your family members!  Of interest in this issue:  

• Everyday Relaxation Guide
• Mental Health After Major Surgery
• Germs’ Favorite Hideouts
• And MUCH more!

You may also find this issue and previous months on the HR mental health and wellness resources site.  Be sure to scroll all the way down the page to the Additional Resources section. While you’re on the site, check out the wide range of wellbeing resources available to you!

Faculty/Staff

The IRS has recently announced the 2024 Retirement Plan Limits.  The contribution limits for employees who participate in the voluntary 403(b) and/or 457(b) plans have increased from $22,500 to $23,000 in 2024, and the catch-up contribution limit for employees age 50 and over who participate in these plans remains unchanged at $7,500. 

This means if you are under age 50 in 2024, the maximum amount you may contribute to your voluntary retirement plan is $23,000.  If you are age 50 or above, the maximum amount you may contribute is $30,500 ($23,000 plus $7,500 catch-up).  Employees interested in adjusting their current retirement contribution, or beginning a new salary reduction, should contact Kimberly Hongisto, Benefits and Onboarding Coordinator, at khongist@nmu.edu or phone x2470 and request a Salary Reduction Agreement.

Faculty/Staff

The NMU group health plan has traditionally covered vaccines under the medical plan with Blue Cross Blue Shield.  Effective November 1st, vaccines will also be covered under the pharmacy plan with CVS Caremark.  Vaccine services are covered at 100% with no employee cost share. You may present either card when you are receiving a vaccination.

Questions may be directed to the HR Benefits team at x2470.

Faculty/Staff

The Benefits Fair gives faculty and staff the opportunity to learn more about their TIAA retirement plan, Blue Cross/Blue Shield medical and dental plans, and Northstar employee assistance program (EAP).  In addition, Hinge Health (NEW), Hello Heart, AFLAC, MEEMIC, Social Security, and Marketplace Insurance Plan representatives will be present.

The Fair is also your chance to get your flu shot from the nursing staff at the NMU Health Center.  Other campus departments participating in the Fair include Human Resources, Athletics/Recreational Sports, and Dean of Students (Food Pantry). If you have any questions, please contact Kristen Bjorne, Human Resources Department at kportale@nmu.edu or phone 906-227-1030.

Faculty/Staff

The 403(b) retirement plan performance report for the 2nd quarter of 2023 is now available for viewing.  The report includes industry updates, market commentary and review, plan investment review, and fund fact sheets for the 403(b) retirement plan (TIAA).  Please visit MyNMU, Employee Services tab, and click on Retirement Plan Information.

Faculty/Staff

February is American Heart month and February 3rd is National Wear Red Day.  Wear red to raise awareness about heart disease—a leading cause of death for Americans.  Concerned about your own heart-health?  Sign up for Hello Heart for free.

Faculty/Staff

Blue Cross virtual well-being can inspire you to live your best life!  This program offers live, interactive, and science-based webinars every Thursday at 12 noon (EST).  The program also offers guided meditation every Wednesday at 12 noon (EST).  Please view the Virtual Well-Being flyer to see information about popular topics, weight loss, and healthy recipes.  In addition, your well-being journey should include an annual checkup.  By having an annual health exam, you'll be taking important steps toward a longer, healthier life.

Faculty/Staff

With Blue Cross Online Visits, you can have virtual visits with licensed therapists and U.S. board-certified psychiatrists using your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.  The therapy and psychiatry options provide ongoing support for stressful situations or issues such as grief, anxiety, or depression.  These private and confidential services are available by appointment and at $0.00 co-pay.  Please see the behavioral health flyer for more information.  This is in addition to the 24/7 medical care that you have with Blue Cross Online Visits also for $0.00 co-pay.  Please note you must be enrolled in NMU's group medical plan to access these services.

Faculty/Staff

The best laid travel plans can go wrong, leaving travelers vulnerable and potentially unable to find the right help.  When the unexpected happens far from home, it's important to know whom to call for assistance.  Benefits eligible employees covered under the group life insurance policy with The Hartford have access to travel assistance and identity theft support provided by International Medical Group (IMG).  IMG has extensive experience handling complex and remote medical transportation situations, as well as providing support for travel concerns then they arise.  Keep in mind this is not insurance so it is best practice to carry your Blue Cross ID card with you when traveling.

Faculty/Staff

TIAA has joined forces with the student loan experts at Savi to help you navigate the complexities of federal and state student loan repayment and forgiveness programs such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).  Founded by long-time student loan experts and advocates, Savi is a public benefit corporation that works with employers, like NMU, to provide the service as a unique student loan benefit.

Join free online webinars to learn more, including Q&A, with Savi’s student loan experts to hear more about how you can explore lowering your student loan payments and working toward student loan forgiveness.  Scroll down when you get to the landing page.