Work-Life

We're pleased to kick off this month's Thrive by announcing the October return of the UK @ Work survey of all University staff and faculty. Conducted by UK Work-Life once every five years since 2005, this survey - and the many good things produced as a result of it (details below) - are a big part of President Todd's lasting legacy.

Appropriately enough, October also marks UK's celebration of National Work and Family Month, featuring many free events for our staff and faculty. Please join us next month!

If you have questions or suggestions for this newsletter, simply reply to this e-mail. We welcome your feedback.

Kim Wilson
Associate Vice President
UK Human Resources

Take the UK@Work Survey of All Staff and Faculty in October!

In October, the UK Work-Life Office will conduct an important survey of all UK staff and faculty. Survey questions will cover such topics as benefits, compensation, work environment and family responsibilities. Survey feedback will play a major role in future work-life initiatives and the University's ongoing effort to attract, retain and support talented staff and faculty.

Results from the original UK@Work survey in 2005 led to major work-life enhancements such as the Family Education Program (tuition benefit) and Career Development resources, among others. Employees who complete the survey will have the option to enter a drawing for one of several great prizes, including an Apple iPad, vacation days, 6-month "E" parking pass and UK basketball tickets, among other great prizes.
Your opinion matters! Please complete the UK @ Work survey online when you receive an e-mail invitation on October 5.

Reminder - August 31 Deadline for Dependent Eligibility Verification

Please remember to submit "proof of relationship" documentation (such as birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.) for dependents covered on your UK health, dental or vision plan by August 31 to the Employee Benefits Office. All staff and faculty of the University of Kentucky are required to participate in the Dependent Eligibility Verification Program to confirm that every family member (spouse, children, step-children, etc.) enrolled in a University of Kentucky benefit plan qualifies for coverage. For more information and a copy of the Dependent Eligibility Cover Form, visit the website for complete details.

World Equestrian Games Discount for Employees, Retirees and Alumni

As a token of appreciation for the University of Kentucky's support of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games in Lexington, the Games Foundation is offering our employees, retirees and alumni the opportunity to enjoy the world's biggest equestrian events at a very special price.

Now through July 31, you can purchase tickets for many of the 2010 Games' most popular events for 35 percent off original pricing. Visit this page for details.

Emergency Preparedness Survey

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government is seeking feedback from the UK community on emergency preparedness. Please take a few minutes to complete online survey on this topic by clicking here.

Farmers Market Bus Rides

We're going to the Farmers Market during lunch each Thursday through September 9 and we want you to come along. The bus ride is free, and you can't beat the market for the freshest fruits and veggies. Click here for pick-up locations and times.

Fall WOW Schedule Now Online

Wellness On Wheels (WOW) is a FREE mobile health screening. Your 10-minute appointment will include tests for: cholesterol (fasting optional), triglycerides and glucose, height, weight, blood pressure, body fat percentage, and waist circumference. Our expert staff will be on-hand for a consultation regarding your results. To check out the schedule and make your WOW appointment today, visit the website.

Weight Loss Matters: Reality-Based Weight Loss

Weight Loss Matters is a 10-week weight-loss program that teaches you how to eat, rather than how to diet. You'll work toward your goals with the help of our registered dietitians. Classes meet once a week either in-person or online. The initial fee is $50, and participants can re-join subsequent sessions for free as long as they make progress. New classes begin August 24, 25, and 26. The registration deadline is August 20. For more information and to register, visit the website.

Therapeutic Chair Massage

The UK Health & Wellness Program makes therapeutic chair massages available throughout the year. The cost is just $5 for 10 minutes or $10 for 20 minutes. Reservations and advanced payment are required (no refunds). The next chair massage will take place August 30, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., at Good Samaritan Hospital, Main Conference Room B. For reservations, call (859) 257-9355.

Experienced Leader Academy

Based on the books of John C. Maxwell, this leadership series is designed to encourage and support experienced managers to continue to maximize their leadership potential. Experienced leaders (managers and directors) who want to grow and develop their skills and abilities as leaders in the context of a structured discussion, self-study and peer support. Leaders will meet for 1.5 hours once every week for 11 weeks to focus on a different leadership principle. The class sessions will be held on Wednesdays from 11:30 am to 1:00 pm at 220 Scovell Hall, Suite 1, beginning September 15. Lunch will be provided. The cost of the course including materials will be $175.00. For registration information, visit the website.

Retirement Savings Corner

Retirement One-on-One Counseling Sessions Available on Campus August 30 - September 30. Have questions regarding your retirement investments? Are you saving enough for your financial future? Get answers by scheduling an appointment with a Fidelity and/or TIAA-CREF representative on campus. For details, visit the website.

SAVE THE DATE!

Retirement-Ready Workshop Coming Oct. 6 Are you thinking of retiring or are you dreaming of pursuing other aspirations after your years of employment? Attend this half-day conference (choose morning or afternooon session) on October 6 and learn how to make the most of your retirement. Betsy Newman, author of Retiring as a Career, will provide tools for successful retirement in today's economy, and hear from a panel of UK retirees. More details coming soon!