Human Resources
UVM Staff bring extraordinary expertise, dedication, creativity, and kindness to their work each day. Staff appreciation events are one of the ways UVM shows gratitude for who we are and what we do.

Celebrating staff year-round! 

This academic year, the university is taking a new approach to celebrating staff by shifting from staff appreciation being limited to a single week to offering appreciation and engagement opportunities throughout the year. By hosting events in the fall, winter, and spring, we hope to make participation more accessible for staff with varying work schedules, responsibilities, and hybrid arrangements. Planning events well in advance also gives staff the opportunity to save the dates and include them on their calendars. 

Our first event of the academic year will be an Ice Cream Social on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. 

Ice Cream Social Details

Appreciation events and activities will be added throughout the year and will be added to this page. You can explore out three featured events below. Make sure to read Inside UVM for reminders and updates, as well!

Creeme truck outside

Ice Cream Social (September 30, 2026)

This fall attend our first staff ice cream social on Wednesday, September 30 around the campus fountain. Catch-up with new colleagues and friends over a cone from our favorite local ice cream vendors!
donuts and coffee

Winter Warm Up (January 2027)

This January mark your calendars for a welcome back gathering after winter break to warm-up and enjoy coffee, hot chocolate, and donuts together before the start of the semester.
social on the green

End of Year Celebration (May 2027)

The traditional Social on the Green will take place at the end of the spring semester to celebrate the end of the academic year and the start of summer!
scavenger hunt tools

Staff Scavenger Hunt

Get ready to experience campus in a whole new way! Put your university knowledge to the test in this fun scavenger hunt featuring clues inspired by campus history, landmarks, and traditions for a chance to win a prize. The scavenger hunt and instructions will be posted on September 21, 2026.

suggestion box

Have an idea for an appreciation event?

We'd love to hear from you about how you'd like to be celebrated. Send an email to Staff Council with your ideas!

Email Staff Council

Have an idea for an appreciation event?

We'd love to hear from you about how you'd like to be celebrated. Send an email to Staff Council with your ideas!

Email Staff Council

2026 Staff Appreciation Committee

Body

Thank you to our amazing campus partners for helping to recognize our staff!

Staff Appreciation Committee:

  • Molly Propst, Chief Human Resource Officer
  • Jennifer Greaves, Executive Director of Business Operations, Finance and Facilities Admin
  • Kelly O'Malley, Director of University Ceremonies & Presidential Events 
  • Jen Mitiguy, Asst Director of Campus Event Services, University Event Services
  • Jennifer Jorgenson, Staff Council President
  • Alan Shashok, Staff Council Administrator
  • Cara Hancy, Wellness Manager, Osher Center
  • Melisa Oliva, Health & Wellness Coach, Osher Center
  • Sarah Hennessy, Director of Talent, Human Resources
  • Janeice Mena, Onboarding Specialist, Human Resources
  • A. Thompson, HR Specialist Senior, Human Resources