You Are Appreciated – Employee Appreciation Week

Dear CALS employees,

Without a doubt, 2020 has been a challenging year for us all. But as Dean of CALS, I could not be more proud of your extraordinary passion and dedication to fulfill our land-grant mission. Together, we have leveraged technology to stay connected, maintain operational continuity and perform our job duties. We have moved undergraduate courses online, twice, to provide students the world-class education they expect and deserve. We have also sustained vital on- and off-campus research programs to advance discovery and deliver solutions to stakeholders across the state through the NC State Extension.

And we have proven that we are “Stronger as a Pack.” We have gone the extra mile to protect our Pack and check in on one another. We are listening, learning and discussing how we can end systemic racism and inequity. Whatever the challenge, CALS employees have not backed down, and I can’t thank you enough.

Governor Roy Cooper has designated Sept. 27 to Oct. 2 as State Employee Recognition Week and Sept. 30 as State Employee Appreciation Day and NC State has scheduled a series of events this week to show our appreciation for your dedicated service to this university.

On behalf of the CALS administrative team, and a very grateful dean, thank you for all you do, and I hope to “see you” throughout the week’s activities (listed below), including our college town hall on Friday, Oct. 2 at 9 a.m.

Sincerely,

Richard Linton, dean

Recognition Week Activities

Tuesday, Sept. 29

CALS Community Conversation: Moving from Safe to Brave Spaces at 9 a.m.
In an effort to continue our shared learning and growth, we invite you to join us on the last Tuesday of the month for CALS Community Conversations focusing on race.
Zoom link: go.ncsu.edu/CALSTownHall
YouTube Live: go.ncsu.edu/CALSLiveStream

Drive-Through Breakfast for SHRA Mandatory Employees from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
To show appreciation for their dedicated service to NC State, Chancellor Randy Woodson has invited all SHRA mandatory employees to pick up breakfast. Details were sent to the employees via invitation. Attendance is not required.

How-To Guide for Healthy Living at 12:30 p.m.
Registration Link
Leading a healthy life can be challenging, but it may not be as tough as you think. Join this introductory session to learn the foundations of healthy living and the opportunities NC State has to support you in your journey to a healthier you.

Wednesday, Sept. 30

State Employee Appreciation Day
Look for a special email from the chancellor and cabinet members.

NC State Sports Trivia at noon
Registration Link
Join us for a one-hour trivia event via Zoom. You can test your knowledge of NC State sports, connect with fellow employees from the Wolfpack community and compete for an NC State Intramural Sports championship T-shirt.

Thursday, Oct. 1

Mindful vs. Mind Full at 1 p.m.
Registration Link
Balancing work and personal life can be overwhelming. This interactive session, which will take place via Zoom, is designed to help you find a moment or two every day to practice mindfulness and get relief from everyday stressors and appreciate yourself. You’ll have the chance to try some easy guided mindfulness exercises and reflect on what works for you.

Friday, Oct. 2

CALS Town Hall at 9 a.m.
We will gather together to hear about research, academic and facility updates.
Submit COVID-19 related questions for the CALS Administrative team at go.ncsu.edu/COVID19Questions.
Zoom link: go.ncsu.edu/CALSTownHall
YouTube Live: go.ncsu.edu/CALSLiveStream

High-Intensity Interval Training Class at noon
Registration Link
Physical activity is important not only to your physical health but mental health as well. Come participate in a high-intensity interval training class that’s good for any level. Be sure to dress in casual, comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely.

What’s in Your Lunchbox? at 2 p.m.
Registration Link
Has lunch been a little blah lately? Learn from Lauren Smith, a registered dietitian, how to build a healthy lunch and tips to eat balanced meals while on the go.