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December 2021
In this edition of The Sun we talk to staff about their holidays traditions, celebrate staff excellence and get ready for the winter break. Don’t forget that winter break begins with Comets United Day on Thursday, Dec. 23!
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We asked staff members to share some of their favorite seasonal traditions. Hearing your stories was very heartwarming! Be sure to save your stories and photos from this year to share with us when we put out the questionnaire again next year.
See what staff are saying
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Staff Council Virtual Cookbook Fundraiser
Staff Council is selling a collection of employees’ favorite dishes to raise funds for the UT Dallas Staff Council Scholarship Fund. Purchasing a virtual cookbook will fill your kitchen with tasty flavors and support colleagues pursuing degrees at UTD.
Get Your Copy
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Support the Comet Cupboard
The Comet Cupboard is anticipating food and personal care item shortages during the coming weeks. We hope you’ll help continue to feed our hungry Comets!
Contact cupboard@utdallas.edu to learn how to donate items, or donate online now.
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Winter Weather Safety Tips
With the cold weather approaching, it is important to prepare and take any necessary precautions. Yes, we may live in Texas, but we are susceptible to frosty weather conditions. Below are some tips to consider for the upcoming winter season. Right now is a great time to stock up on any essential items.
Before you leave the office for the break:
- Make sure to take your plants and any fish/pets home. If you’re cold, they’re cold.
- Shut down your computers and unplug any desk heaters, fans, or other appliances that will not be used throughout the break.
- If you will be reporting to the office during the winter break, make sure to keep an eye on the weather and road conditions. If the University is open, but inclement weather impedes travel for you, make sure to coordinate with your supervisor.
- Make sure you are receiving the UTD alert notifications. If you change your phone number or are not receiving information during tests conducted the first Wednesday of every month at noon, please log into Galaxy and update your number. You can also check the University website for closure information.
Tips for while on the road:
- Make sure your vehicle is properly maintained before any trip and keep your gas tank full. Check the battery, fluid levels/ coolant, and tire pressure and tread.
- Lubricate door and trunk locks with a silicone spray or rubbing alcohol to prevent freezing.
- Have a bag of sand or cat litter handy to provide traction for tires if you plan to travel during inclement weather.
- Allow extra time when traveling in inclement weather. Drive slowly and increase your distance required for stopping, and avoid using cruise control.
Tips for at home:
- Insulate outside faucets and pipes near outer walls so that your water supply is less likely to freeze.
- Insulate walls and attic, and cover windows with plastic from the inside.
- Stock up on firewood and supplies, including canned goods and bottled water.
- To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, NEVER operate generators and other fuel-powered devices inside a home or an enclosed space, such as a garage. Make sure your home has working carbon monoxide detectors.
- If you will be away from home for a long period of time, set your thermostat to 55 degrees or higher and open any cabinets under sinks.
- Don’t forget to put your pets inside or arrange for them to be indoors!
During the winter season, no matter where you live in Texas, you can dial 2-1-1 or 877-541-7905, the state’s free 24-hour helpline, to check on possible community-established warming centers or related services in their area.
For additional information and tips regarding winter weather preparedness, visit:
Stay safe, Comets!
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New Learning Opportunity for Staff
UT Dallas has partnered with Academic Impressions, an organization specializing in professional development resources for higher education administrators. This partnership provides all UT Dallas faculty, staff, and students with membership access to learning resources designed specifically for professionals working in our industry. Topics range from skills-based trainings for professionals in all areas of higher ed, to leadership trainings on supervision, personal effectiveness and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
To get started, create an Academic Impressions account using your @utdallas.edu email address. For more information contact account manager Yianna Kappas.
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An Interview with Featured Staff Member George McDonald
Meet George McDonald, a 23-year veteran of UTD who wors in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. He has an amazing track record and great outlook on UTD.
We value the opportunity to feature exemplary colleagues and recognize their service to UTD and excellence in our community. If you would like to be featured or nominate someone, please email suggestions to staffcouncil@utdallas.edu
Meet George
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Staff Resources
Below is a list of resources for staff who may be facing challenges this holiday season and throughout the year. Staff Council is humbled to serve the UTD community and wishes everyone the best.
Accessing Employee Assistance Program Services
Members may access the EAP by calling the toll-free helpline number, using the *iConnectYou App, or instant messaging with a work-life consultant through the online instant messaging system.
*New Service coming in January. For more information, please email hr@utdallas.edu
Food Insecurity
Domestic Violence Shelters and Support for Women, Men(+) and LQBTQ Community(**)
These facilities can help with a variety of issues such as short-term and long-term housing, childcare, advocacy, counseling and more.
Need help, but don’t know who to call? United Way can help with a variety of local resources
- Dial 2-1-1 on your phone.
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