Category Archives: HR Information Archive

Wellness events in September

Snooze & Lose presentation
Do you ever wonder why you feel so exhausted during the day but can’t seem to fall to sleep at night? Have you struggled to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight? Our sleep habits affect more than just how alert we are during the day. They influence how we communicate and interact with others, how much stress we feel, and even our hormones, which can cause a series of other health-related concerns. Learn how to gauge if you’re sleeping enough and how you can improve the quality of your sleep.

Join us Sept. 15 at 10 a.m. in Olmsted Center, Rooms 310/311 for this important topic.

Participants will earn BUILD (Bulldogs United in Learning Drake) credits and be entered into drawings for prizes each semester. Look for an online BUILD registration form soon.

Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information on how to register for this class.

Healthy4U—Small Changes, Big Impact
If you have ever tried to read a food nutrition label, determine how big a serving of meat really is, or wondered how to eat healthy at a restaurant, this class is for you.

Join dietitian Lucas Flaherty for this four-part nutrition series. You may attend individual classes or the full series. The first class is Sept. 21 at 10 a.m. in Olmsted Center, Rooms 312/313. It covers fad diets, portion control, MyPlate, behavior modification, and tools for change.

Future classes will cover carbohydrates/fiber, fat/cholesterol/triglycerides, exercise and protein + water, labels, menu planning, grocery shopping, and dining out.

Participants will earn BUILD (Bulldogs United in Learning Drake) credits and be entered into drawings for prizes each semester. Look for an online BUILD registration form soon.

Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information on how to register for this class.

$10 chair massages
Step away from your worries and take a 10-minute vacation with a relaxing chair massage. On Sept. 28 from 2 to 4 p.m. in Aliber Hall, Conference Room 204, and Sept. 29 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Cline Hall, Conference Room 127, licensed massage therapist Anne Boal will be giving chair massages.

Cost is $10 for a 10-minute chair massage paid directly to Anne Boal at the time of your appointment. Correct change cash or check only. One name will be drawn after the event and that person will receive a gift certificate for a free 10-minute chair massage!

Click the link below to register for the day and time of your choice. You may register for one or two time slots per registration sheet.
Sept. 28 (2–4 p.m., Aliber Hall, Room 204)
Sept. 29 (11 a.m.–1 p.m., Cline Hall, Room 127)

For additional information or questions, please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement

FREE online financial program for faculty & staff

Drake is offering faculty and staff free access to the online financial training program 2016 Financial Fitness Challenge through the Financial Fitness Group and funded by the Iowa Insurance Division. This Financial Fitness Academy™ is an easy and fun way to learn how to improve your unique financial situation. You may complete the program at your own pace. It is simple and convenient with 24/7 access on all internet-connected smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Once enrolled you will complete a 10-minute confidential Financial Fitness Checkup™.  Based on your results you will receive some learning recommendations but you ultimately choose what is most interesting to you. There are more than 400 Academy™ tutorials to choose from covering budgeting, saving, the basics of investing, retirement planning, financial planning, and much more. You may complete as many tutorials as you wish during this eight-week program—no limits. At the end of the program you will complete another Checkup™ to track your progress. All responses are kept private and confidential.

If you are interested in participating in this program, please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu by Friday, Sept. 9.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement

Schedule your biometrics screening today

If you are on Drake’s health plan and wish to receive the wellness premium incentive in 2017 you must complete a biometric screening and online wellness assessment in 2016. This will save you approximately $300 so take action now!

While the deadline to have your biometric screening completed with your physician has passed, you can still schedule a free screening with Hy-Vee or an on-campus screening with UnityPoint.

  • Complete your screening at a participating Hy-Vee location July 1 through Sept. 15. Full details and a list of participating Hy-Vee locations can be found here. Screening is free (no co-pay).
  • On-campus biometric screenings will take place between 6:30 and 10:45 a.m. at the Olmsted Center through UnityPoint Health on the following dates: Oct. 6–7, 12–14, and 18–20. To schedule your screening, click here. Sign in with username DRAKE and password SCREEN. Find additional information in the On-campus Health Screening Scheduling Guide.

If you have already completed your biometric screening, don’t forget to complete your online wellness assessment on wellmark.com by Nov. 15.

For those looking for a chance at an extra incentive we have an EARLY BIRD SPECIAL! Everyone who has completed their screening through Hy-Vee or their physician and an online assessment by Sept. 30 will be placed in a drawing for a chance to win a $50 gift card.

Questions may be directed to Linda Feiden, assistant director, wellness & engagement, at linda.feiden@drake.edu or 271-1880.

—Linda Feiden

Keeping up on Drake retirement plans

Drake University sponsors both mandatory and voluntary 403(b) retirement plans. These plans, including fees and investment options available to participants, are reviewed quarterly by the Drake University Retirement Plan Review Group. This group acts with an independent advisor to review investment options and make plan design decisions as directed by the Drake University Investment Policy Statement. The Plan Review Group and Investment Policy Statement are posted on the Employee Tab in blueView.

For many years Drake has relied upon TIAA to provide appropriate products and services. The group examines these regularly, and engages with TIAA to ensure responsiveness to Drake’s evolving plans and participant needs. Nearly ten years ago, to complement TIAA’s “legacy” individually-owned annuities, Drake introduced selected mutual funds; some of which are not managed by TIAA. The prominence of these mutual funds has grown, such that plan participants now allocate a majority of their contributions to mutual funds; particularly to funds using an “index” investment strategy.

While Drake’s intent is to provide information and support, plan participants must make important decisions. Only participants may designate plan beneficiaries and allocate plan contributions. Thus, participants are encouraged to review their investment options regularly. To schedule an individual counseling session with a TIAA representative, contact Human Resources at 271-1901.

You may expect to receive more information and experience opportunities to ask questions later this fall, when we introduce further enhancements to the plans. You may likewise learn more about the Drake plans by attending the following presentation: “Get a Head Start” on Sept. 29, at 2 p.m. in Olmsted Center, Room 310.

—Marlene Huertz, Associate Director, Benefits

BUILD your toolkit

Start BUILDing your toolkit by attending “Winning at Work: The Bulldog Way”, presented by Sandy Hatfield Clubb, director of athletics. As faculty and staff, we are part of the Bulldog pack, a community enthusiastic about doing our best. Be energized and challenged for success by learning “The Bulldog Way”, a philosophy that guides athletics on and off the court, and can be incorporated into your workspace on campus. This session will be Thursday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. in Olmsted Center, Rooms 310-311. Participants will receive two credits toward their toolbox. To register for this session, email: drakehr@drake.edu .

Bulldogs are leaders, passionate about learning and proud of our Drake pack.  We’re constantly looking for ways to strengthen and build our future—whether by learning a new skill or getting to know a colleague from across campus. We are Bulldogs United ILearning Drake…BUILD! Beside learning new information, you will be entered in drawings and receive credits toward digital badges for attending a variety of HR sponsored events.

—Debra Wiley, Assistant Director, Human Resources

NEW service anniversary & retiree award platform

We are excited to partner with the company Royal Recognition, Inc., in celebration of our faculty and staff as they reach many milestones in their years of service to Drake. With this new collaboration, we have access to a platform that will automate service anniversary and retiree gifts. This will allow all employees celebrating their 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35+ year anniversaries and retirees to choose their gift of choice from an expansive online catalog. Employees will receive their gift on or about their service anniversary or retiree date and still be recognized at our annual anniversary and retiree event in the spring.

This new online platform takes the place of the current award system and is effective with all service anniversaries and retirements on or after Sept. 1, 2016. Watch for more information in upcoming OnCampus communications.

We look forward to what the future has in store for our organization and all of our dedicated employees. For more information, contact Human Resources at drakehr@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement

Introducing the BUILD program

Bulldogs are leaders, passionate about learning and proud of our Drake pack. We’re constantly looking for ways to strengthen and build our future—whether by learning a new skill or getting to know a colleague from across campus. We are Bulldogs United ILearning Drake … BUILD! The BUILD program encourages engagement in a variety of HR-sponsored events. Beside learning new information, you will be entered in drawings and receive credits toward digital badges for attending BUILD events. The full program and registration will be published in upcoming weeks.

The 2016–2017 BUILD program kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 8, at 1 p.m. in Olmsted 310-311. Sandy Hatfield Clubb, director of athletics and recipient of the 2015 Robert D Ray Pillar of Character Award, will present “Winning at Work: The Drake Way.” To register for this session, email drakehr@drake.edu .

—Debra Wiley, Assistant Director, Human Resources

Join Weight Watchers at Work this fall

Summer is coming to a close and the fall term is beginning. Now is the perfect time to get into the habit of making healthier choices. If your goals include losing weight, Weight Watchers at Work may be the solution.

The cost is $156 for a 12-week renewable series with a minimum of 15 participants. Payment may be made in a lump sum or split into three payments.

Weekly meetings include a confidential weigh-in prior to the meeting, followed by a 30-minute class. Weight Watchers’ unique mix of face-to-face interaction with a trained leader, group support, accountability, digital tools, and the convenience of meetings in the workplace have helped participants be more successful than those who try to lose weight on their own.

If you are interested in joining Weight Watchers at Work, please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu. If we have enough interest, we will set up an informational meeting in the near future.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement

$10 chair massages

Back by popular demand—chair massages! Step away from your work and take a 10-minute vacation with a relaxing chair massage.

Licensed massage therapist Anne Boal will be giving chair massages. Cost is $10 for a 10-minute chair massage paid directly to Anne Boal at the time of your appointment—exact cash or check only please. Register online for an appointment during these two times:

Sept. 28
2–4 p.m.
Aliber Hall, Conference Room 0204
Register

Sept. 29
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
Cline Hall, Conference Room 127
Register

You may register for one or two time slots.

Beside the benefit of washing away some stress and re-energizing your day, one name will be drawn after this event and that person will receive a gift certificate for a free 10-minute chair massage!

For additional information or questions, please contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement

Faculty/staff Fall 2016 wellness opportunities

Snooze & Lose Presentation
Do you ever wonder why you feel so exhausted during the day but can’t seem to fall to sleep at night? Have you struggled to maintain a healthy weight or lose weight? Our sleep habits affect more than just how alert we are during the day. They influence how we communicate and interact with others, how much stress we feel, and even our hormones, which can cause a series of other health-related concerns. Learn how to gauge if you’re sleeping enough and how you can improve the quality of your sleep. Join us on Sept. 15 at 10 a.m. in Olmsted 310/311. Look for an online BUILD registration form soon. Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information.

Iowa Financial Fitness Challenge
The Iowa Financial Fitness Challenge is an online financial wellness education program that provides you with unbiased instruction in personal finance, investment, and retirement fundamentals. This is a grant-funded, no-cost program sponsored by the Iowa Insurance Division. Start date is Sept. 26. More details to come.

Chair Massages
Back by popular demand—chair massages! Step away from your work and take a 10-minute vacation with a relaxing chair massage from licensed massage therapist Anne Boal.

Cost is $10 for 10 minutes (correct change cash or check). One name will be drawn from each month’s event and that person will receive a free 10-minute chair massage! Contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information.

Healthy4U—Small Changes, Big Impact
If you have ever tried to read a food nutrition label, determine how big a serving of meat really is, or wondered how to eat healthy at a restaurant, this class is for you. Join dietitian Lucas Flaherty for this four-part nutrition series. You may attend individual classes or the full series. The Sept. 21 class covers fad diets, portion control, MyPlate, behavior modification, and tools for change. The Nov. 8 class covers carbohydrates/fiber and fat/cholesterol/triglycerides. Both classes will be held in Olmsted Center Room 312/313 at 10 a.m. Look for an online BUILD registration form soon. Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information.

CPR/AED/First Aid Classes
This FREE instructor-led course will teach you how to respond to first aid, breathing, and cardiac emergencies. Includes hands-on practice of lifesaving skills and certification for those who successfully complete the course. This four-hour course is taught over two days and will be offered twice this term. Minimum of four and maximum of 10 per class.

First session: Oct. 25 and 27, 1–3 p.m. in the Olmsted Center, Conference Room 310
Second session: Nov. 2 and 3, 5–7 p.m. in the Olmsted Center, Conference Room 310 (1st night) and TMR 132 (2nd night)
Instructor: Chris Nickell

Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information or to register for these classes.

Healthiest State Walk
Grab your walking shoes and join this year’s Healthiest State Walk on Wednesday, Oct. 5. This one kilometer (0.62 mile) walk is part of the Healthiest State Initiative and its goal of making Iowa the healthiest state in the nation. We will meet at the north entrance of Cowles Library at 12:15 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 5. All participants will be given a map of the route and a raffle ticket for a chance to win prizes. If it rains, we will walk on the indoor track at Knapp. If interested, please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information.

Wellness Screenings
Don’t forget this year’s screenings! Those on Drake’s health plan can save $300 in 2017 by completing a biometrics screening and online wellness assessment this year. Choose one of the following options to complete your biometric screening:

  1. Complete a physical/screening (with bloodwork) with your physician by Aug. 31. Your physician’s office must complete, sign, and submit the Health Care Provider Biometric Screening Form by Sept. 30.
  2. Complete your screening at a participating Hy-Vee location July 1 through Sept. 15. View instructions and a list of participating Hy-Vee stores.
  3. Complete your screening on campus at the Olmsted Center through UnityPoint health between 6:30 and 10:45 a.m. on one of the following dates: Oct. 6–7, 12–14, or 18–20. You can schedule your appointment online starting Sept. 2, 2016. Sign in with username: DRAKE and password: SCREEN. Find additional information in the On-campus Health Screening Scheduling Guide.

For more information, contact Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu or check out the Wellness Portal under the employee tab on blueView.

Flu Shots
We will be offering flu shots to faculty and staff this fall through the College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. More information soon, including dates.

Benefits/Wellness Fair
Grab some co-workers and spend a few minutes checking out the Drake Benefits/Wellness Fair on Friday, Nov. 4, 8:30–11:30 a.m., in the Olmsted Center. This come-and-go event provides an opportunity for employees to learn about the wide range of benefits and wellness opportunities available at Drake. We have lined up a terrific group of vendors and staff who will be available to answer individual questions. We will also offer blood pressure checks, bone density testing, chair massages, and more. Fair will be held in rooms 310/311/312/313 and the Drake Room. More details to come.

Food & Mood Presentation
When was the last time you monitored your mood as it relates to what and how much you eat? Emotional eating is a common response to stress and fatigue, and it can lead to unhealthy eating habits, which can lead to chronic health conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. In this presentation you’ll learn ways to track mood and food, and identify the difference between hunger, boredom, and stress eating. Join us on Nov. 15 at 10 a.m. in Olmsted 310/311 for this fun and informative presentation! Look for an online BUILD registration form soon. Please email Linda Feiden at linda.feiden@drake.edu for more information.

Holiday Trimmings Weight Challenge
Is it possible to celebrate the season without packing on pounds? You bet! This six-week program is designed to help you maintain or lose weight through the holidays. Weigh-ins will be held prior to Thanksgiving and after New Year’s. Names will be randomly drawn from those who maintain or lose weight and prizes will be awarded! More information to come.

—Linda Feiden, Assistant Director, Wellness & Engagement