CUHR Connection: September 2024

September 30, 2024

Dear colleagues,

Welcome to the September edition of Your CUHR (Columbia University Human Resources) Connection, designed to provide a snapshot of what Human Resources offers you.

News

  • 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 are offering in-person sessions on campus during October and November. Book a session now with TIAA at https://tiaa.org/schedulenow or with Vanguard at meetvanguard.com.
  • Today, September 30 is the last day of the Department of Education’s additional grace period for borrowers who may have been unable to begin immediately repaying their student loans. Through Columbia University and TIAA, faculty and staff have access to a free student loan benefit, Savi, whose mission is to get borrowers on track with their student loan payments, assess their eligibility for forgiveness and repayment programs, and make sure they’re prepared as the on-ramp ends. Learn more about your options.

Upcoming Events

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 & 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 2: 12 p.m. – 12:30 p.m. | Register

Building Effective Relationships Across the University (Learning & Development)
This half-day workshop is designed to help University professionals enhance their relationship-building skills with key stakeholders. Guides participants through understanding others' goals, motivations, and communication styles, leading to more effective collaboration and conflict management.
Thursday, October 3: 1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Register

College Coach for Officers, Support Staff and Children (Lunch & Learn Webinar Series)
Learn more about College Coach, which gives you and your high school age children planning for college, access to a team of college admissions and finance experts who can offer impartial guidance and help you maximize your child’s success.
Wednesday, October 9: 12 p.m. – 1 p.m. | Register

Caregiving (Employee Assistance Program)
Nearly one out of three Americans is currently providing care for a family member. This class will cover the issues of self-care, how to assess your family’s needs and how to maintain balance within your life. 
Friday, October 11: 2 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Register

All upcoming events can be found on the Human Resources events page.

Workplace Tip
If you take mass transit, or drive to work, the Transit/Parking Reimbursement Program(T/PRP) is a convenient way to pay for commuting expenses with pre-tax dollars, deducted directly from your paycheck each month. You can learn more about your options and how to make your election in CUBES.

Questions? Feedback? Let us know at [email protected].