Recognition and Staff Engagement in Enrolment Services

Submitted by Coby Thurmeier, Instructional Designer, Learning & Development, Enrolment Services

In early 2014, a cross-functional team in Enrolment Services engaged colleagues in a number of creative and interactive activities to uncover what we collectively value, what motivates us to work in ES, and what our shared values are in an effort to define our Enrolment Services Mission and Vision.

While we share a common vision and mission, we don’t all occupy the same space, so we’ve found creative ways to ensure that we stay connected and maintain our strong sense of community.

ES Wellness Afternoon

We recognize and value the importance of investing in the health and wellness of our staff.  Promoting and supporting wellness initiatives leads to a happy and productive workplace; staff become more engaged and connected with work, colleagues and the community.

This summer, we’ll hold our 3^rd annual ES Wellness Afternoon – the first of which was made possible by the Healthy Workplace Initiative! We all look forward to the afternoon in mid-August when we come together for a few hours of learning, creativity, and fun. Campus partners like the Belkin Art Gallery, CIRS building, Beatty Biodiversity Museum, and UBC Rec have helped provide variety of activity options like bike tours of campus, guided visits, and Pilates instruction. Many ES staff members have shared their talents by teaching others to knit and how to create objects through up-cycling, and leading yoga practice.

The annual ES Wellness Afternoon is just one way in which we demonstrate our commitment to building a culture that values the wellbeing of our team members.  Throughout the year, staff have flexibility in their work day to allow them to participate in a variety of wellness activities such as, SRC classes, walking groups and staff organized yoga sessions.

ES Connected

Staff from both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses works together to create our monthly newsletter and blog. It’s a space to welcome new team members, celebrate achievements and milestones, and show off pets.

ES Stand-Up Meetings

Held monthly on both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses, the informal gatherings begin with an open invitation from Kate Ross, AVP, Enrolment Services and Registrar, to provide project updates, recognize staff, and share information with colleagues. This is yet another forum that provides the opportunity for all voices from ES to be heard, and is one of the many ways that the ES leadership demonstrate that ‘every team member is valued’.

Drawing inspiration from our mission and vision, we’ve developed a leadership profile. It defines the qualities and attributes we aim to embody in Enrolment Services, creating a leaderful organization.  As we continue the work  to ‘live’ our mission and vision, all ES team members  are committed to doing great work in every area.  Our individual contributions are what makes Enrolment Services a successful, empowered place to work.

About Enrolment Services (ES)

With over 150 staff members across two campuses, Enrolment Services works closely with prospective and current students, faculty, staff, and alumni. Our work includes: supporting academic governance, recruiting domestic students, assisting students with their finances, scheduling courses and exams, and providing stewardship of the Student Information System and the academic record.

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