CUHR Connection: October 2024
Dear colleagues,
Welcome to the October edition of Your CUHR (Columbia University Human Resources) Connection, designed to provide a snapshot of what Human Resources offers you.
News
- Last week, the IRS announced increases in health savings accounts limits for 2025. Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) will increase to $3,300 in 2025 and you can roll over $660 in your FSA from 2025 to 2026. The Transit/Parking Reimbursement Program monthly limit also increased; it will be $325/month in 2025, up from $315/month.
- Benefits Open Enrollment is the annual opportunity each fall to enroll in or make changes to your benefits for the next calendar year. The 2025 Benefits Open Enrollment will begin on Monday, November 4 and conclude on Friday, November 22. Learn more about Open Enrollment, and sign up for information forums, benefits expos and health screenings that will take place this fall.
Your Benefits
- TIAA and Vanguard continue to offer in-person retirement consultation sessions on campus during this fall. Book a session now with TIAA at tiaa.org/schedulenow or with Vanguard at meetvanguard.com.
- The Employee Assistance Program is there for you any time you need it. If you’re feeling anxiety around current events, or dealing with family issues, you are eligible to receive six free counseling sessions on any topic with a licensed counselor. Visit the CareNow Center or call 1-844-636-1260 for more details.
Upcoming Events
Successful Transition to Retirement (Employee Assistance Program)
It is never too early to consider the future, and this training will appeal to people of all ages. This seminar will help participants plan early to set retirement goals in all areas, explore available resources, and identify ways to overcome any possible obstacles in reaching their goals.
Tuesday, October 29: 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Register
Take a Break: Stretch and Reset
Sometimes all you need is a break! Take a Break: Stretch & Reset is a community of Columbia University faculty and staff who gather weekly to release tension and stress through stretching and meditation. Take 30 minutes to feel rested, connected and ready to thrive. Newcomers and previous participants are all welcome.
Wednesday, October 30: 12 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Register
Open Enrollment Information Forums
Benefits information sessions are your opportunities to ask questions about what’s new for Open Enrollment 2025, including guidance to help you make informed choices about your offerings, and demonstration on how to enroll in or update your benefits in CUBES.
Wednesday, October 30: 12 p.m. (Officers) and 4 p.m. (Support Staff)
Register – Officers | Register – Support Staff
Breaking Bad Communication Habits (Learning & Development)
Journey through a process of self-reflection, enabling you to communicate with more clarity and confidence. You’ll learn more about understanding body language, eliminating communication breakdowns and how to master email communication.
Thursday, October 31: 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Register
All upcoming events can be found on the Human Resources events page.
Workplace Tip
In October, Columbia University officially launched the Campus Climate Collaborative, an initiative designed to foster inclusion, belonging, and community at Columbia. All faculty and staff are encouraged to engage with this collaborative, to share their experiences and contribute their ideas for new programs, events, and initiatives that will continue to strengthen the campus climate. Email [email protected] with any suggestions and feedback.
Questions or feedback for CUHR? Let us know at [email protected].