May 3-8, 2010

1. May 3-8, 2010

2. What is Staff Appreciation Week? An opportunity for the UT Austin community to show support and appreciation for UT staff. A highly-visible “Thank you!” A creative way to improve staff morale.

3. Who will “host” Staff Appreciation Week? UT Staff Council will partner with various departments and organizations across campus to coordinate and market activities. Participating organizations will develop a plan that works within their interests, budget and capabilities. UTSC will publicize events for staff campus-wide, and will also recognize the smaller, more personal efforts.

4. What kinds of activities qualify? Formal, or informal, large or small, anything that says “Thanks for all you do!” Personal and/or public recognition and demonstrations of appreciation Events appealing to a wider staff audience

5. Small or personal gestures Recognize or highlight staff on your departmental website Send thank you notes to the staff in your area. Bring treats for the staff in your office. Encourage your constituents and students to show their appreciation for the staff they encounter. Make signs or large “thank you cards,” signed by the faculty or students in your department and post them in staff areas.

6. Events appealing to a larger audience If your department has interesting resources, host an open house or a behind the scenes demonstration so staff can see what you do. Plan a tribute or celebration—an event to recognize the many diverse contributions of staff on campus. Remember the staff who may be less visible, and look for ways to thank them too.

7. What are some other groups doing? Special discounts for staff during the week: Butler School of Music – two free tickets with staff ID to all concerts that week Showcasing an interesting aspect of the department: Astronomy – special telescope tour for staff Public displays of appreciation: University Residence Halls Association – “I UT Staff” buttons for residents to wear

8. What can Faculty Council do? • Take this back to your constituents: • Encourage the faculty and students you encounter to make personal gestures that show their appreciation for staff. • Encourage your deans and department heads to support Staff Appreciation Week efforts. • Offer to lead a planning group in your college to organize an activity or event. • Plan something as a Council for staff campus-wide, or partner with other faculty or student organizations for a larger effort.

9. Staying in touch Contact Staff Appreciation Week Co-Chairs for more ideas or to register an event: Jennifer McClainjmcclain@austin.utexas.edu Janet Griffithjanet.griffith@mail.utexas.edu. Stay tuned for more information and updates: http://blogs.utexas.edu/staffappreciationweek/