Staff Professional Development Day - Human Resources

Concurrent Session 1:
Sustainable Citizen
This session provides an overview of key sustainability concepts and shares examples of what NMU is doing to reduce our impact on the planet. You will learn several definitions, gain insights on different aspects of sustainability, and get a variety of tools to help you live lighter on the planet. Positive social change requires many different actions at many different scales, from individuals to institutions. By working together we can create a more sustainable world. Participants will complete a mini-course and earn a digital badge during this session. Become a Sustainable Citizen with us!

Presenters: Dr. Jes Thompson and Anna Solberg

Concurrent Session 1:
Background Checks, EPAFS, I-9s: Students, Temps and Adjuncts Post Hire Processing
In this 50-minute session, we'll walk through efficient, compliant, and consistent practices for processing background checks, employment forms, and I-9s for student employees, temps and adjuncts. Ideal for staff involved in hiring or onboarding, this training will cover common pitfalls, tips for smooth processing, and key compliance reminders.

Presenters: Brenda Bickler, Robin Buyarski, Anna Herriman, and Kimberly Hongisto

Concurrent Session 2:
Leaning Into Your Why in Uncertain Times
This workshop is designed to help participants stay mission-focused while engaging in meaningful civic dialogue and holding onto hope in challenging times. Through guided discussions and shared experiences, we aim to create a space for meaningful dialogue and collective learning.

Presenter: Dr. Shawnrece Butler

Concurrent Session 2:
Creating Promotional Assets While Maintaining University Brand Standards
University Marketing and Communications staff will present a training session on creating promotional designs for your department or program while maintaining NMU brand standards. There will be a designated time for questions at the end.

Presenters: Mike Forester and Sarah O’Neill 

Concurrent Session 3:
Mastering Google Workspace: Tips, Tricks & Reminders
Boost your productivity and ensure email and document security with this 50-minute session packed with practical tips, clever tricks, and essential reminders for using Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Calendar, and more. Whether you're a seasoned user or just getting started, discover ways to work smarter with Google Workspace.

Presenters: Katie Buhrmann and Chris Lewis

Concurrent Session 3:
Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) & Other Legal Considerations
We will revisit the Earned Sick Time Act and implications for NMU as well as other legal considerations specific to student employment. This discussion will include the Americans with Disabilities Act, Workers Compensation’, and Minimum Wage. This session is intended to be interactive based on participant questions and issues.

Presenters: Rhea Dever and Renee Sheen

Concurrent Session 1:
Leaning Into Your Why in Uncertain Times
This workshop is designed to help participants stay mission-focused while engaging in meaningful civic dialogue and holding onto hope in challenging times. Through guided discussions and shared experiences, we aim to create a space for meaningful dialogue and collective learning.

Presenter: Dr. Shawnrece Butler

Concurrent Session 1:
UltraTime and Payroll Processing Best Practices
This session is designed to provide a clear overview of best practices for completing timesheets and processing payroll accurately and on time. Learn how to avoid common errors, ensure compliance, and streamline workflows to support smooth payroll operations.

Presenters: Robin Buyarksi and Anna Herriman

Concurrent Session 2:
Sustainable Citizen
This session provides an overview of key sustainability concepts and shares examples of what NMU is doing to reduce our impact on the planet. You will learn several definitions, gain insights on different aspects of sustainability, and get a variety of tools to help you live lighter on the planet. Positive social change requires many different actions at many different scales, from individuals to institutions. By working together we can create a more sustainable world. Participants will complete a mini-course and earn a digital badge during this session. Become a Sustainable Citizen with us!

Presenters: Dr. Jes Thompson and Anna Solberg

Concurrent Session 2:
Creating Promotional Assets While Maintaining University Brand Standards
University Marketing and Communications staff will present a training session on creating promotional designs for your department or program while maintaining NMU brand standards. There will be a designated time for questions at the end.

Presenters: Mike Forester and Sarah O’Neill 

General Session:
Generative AI & Higher Ed: What Staff Need to Know
Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) tools like ChatGPT are transforming how we work and learn. This presentation is designed for all university staff members seeking to understand this technology and its implications for higher education. We will demystify GenAI, explore potential opportunities for enhancing productivity and workflow, and discuss critical challenges including accuracy, data privacy, ethical use, and academic integrity. Attendees will gain practical insights and learn about current guidance for navigating GenAI responsibly.

Presenter: Scott Smith