E-Update – FS

The F&S E-Update is a weekly email announcement sent to all F&S team members. It typically hits inboxes at 2:30 p.m. and includes information regarding the past and coming weeks, including winners of that week’s Pats on the Back. This page shows the Email+ (WebTools) hyperlink to view the message in its native format. Find each E-Update from this calendar year below.

For E-Updates older than this calendar year, view the E-Update Archive page.

January 16, 2026

Click here to see this online Facilities & Services January 16, 2026 Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Biannual Crafts & Trades Testing
The enrollment period for testing for the university’s Crafts & Trades positions is underway. Some postings are open now through January 21; others will open January 26 to February 4. Current openings include (but are not limited to) brickmason, construction, ironworker, machinist, mill worker, painter, plumber, sheetmetal, and water station positions. Interested people can upload copies of their certifications and licenses, along with a detailed work history. Go to https://humanresources.illinois.edu/bi-annual-testing/ to see the lists for both sets of openings. Then click the “View Postings on the Job Board” button at the top to go to the page where clicking the job title will garner more information for that job. Learn about the process online at jobs.illinois.edu or by calling Illinois Human Resources at 217-333-2137.

Join the Winter Blood Drive
According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds, making the need for blood constant and consistent. Blood is used to help patients survive traumatic injuries, cancer treatment, surgeries, and even chronic illnesses. Your blood donation can help save up to three lives. Please consider joining fellow team members and supporting the F&S Blood Drive on Thursday, January 29, between 8 a.m. and noon. The goal is to collect 18 pints for local hospitals, which could save up to 54 lives. Ten slots are still available for donations, including the drive’s first four whole blood appointment times from 8:05–8:35 a.m. and one-hour double red cell openings from 8–10 a.m. To make an appointment, visit https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive or contact Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. This is an F&S-approved event, but team members must receive prior supervisory approval to participate. Employees may charge up to one hour, work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations.

Mentoring Recruitment Lunch
Do you enjoy talking to kids? If so, you’re a good candidate to be a mentor with CU One-to-One Mentoring. Local students (third grade and up) are actively seeking mentors who are willing to be there for them. No experience necessary. The mentoring gig is one hour a week during the school year, and the job is simply to show up and engage with the student. That might be through playing games, or sharing stories, or just actively listening to them. Each mentor-mentee dynamic is different because the people involved are different, but your one-hour-a-week effort makes a huge difference in the life of the child. Intrigued? Come learn more at the Mentor Recruitment Lunches at noon or 12:30 p.m., on Wednesday, January 21, in PPSB conference room 128. Pizza will be served at both sessions, and CU One-to-One staffers, Lauren Smith and Natalie Lessaris, will be on hand to explain the process and answer questions.
F&S Mentors May Charge Time
Mentoring is an approved event at F&S, and up to an hour a week can be charged. For more information, contact Cynthia Cope cfcope2@illinois.edu, 217-333-6065, or Jim Sims jimsims@illinois.edu, 217-244-6425.

Temporary Fueling Procedures
Next week, the vehicle fueling station at Garage and Car Pool (GACP; 1701 S. Oak St.) will undergo work to upgrade existing equipment. Repairs will start on Tuesday, January 20, and are expected to last two or three days. During this period, fueling should be limited to only vehicles with less than a quarter of a tank to minimize trips to the fuel station. Unleaded fuel will be available at pumps 3 and 4. On January 20, diesel will be available at the pump, but on January 21, diesel fuel will only be accessible from auxiliary tanks in the facility’s west parking area. GACP will be open 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on both these days. (GACP is closed Monday, January 19, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.) For more information, contact Shawn Patterson spttrsn@illinois.edu, 217-333-3912.

iRead Volunteers Needed
Spread the joy of reading by helping young students. Do you remember when you were little and reading “clicked” for you? Suddenly the entire world (and beyond) was at your fingertips, within the pages of a book. The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is hoping to open that door to the littlest readers by giving them extra attention through the iRead portion of their iRead • iCount program. You can volunteer in Champaign or Urbana schools to participate in the spring program, which runs March 3 to May 8. You’ll be asked to donate a one-hour block each week to work with a small group of students. Training and materials are supplied. This volunteer program is also a university-approved event. To learn more or find the application form, go to https://www.champaigncounty.org/iread-icount/. Applications are needed by January 30.

Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The F&S Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through the documentary “Martin Luther King Jr.: Enough Is Enough.” The film looks at his life, his work, and his “legacy of courage and inspiration.” To join the Noontime Knowledge on Friday, January 23, at noon, use this link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/81809981063?pwd=LSRGFEfzsr7LEMrMk5BWPreeTnqF3U.1 Alternatively, open Zoom, click “Join a Meeting,” and enter the following meeting ID and password where prompted: Meeting ID: 818 0998 1063
Password: 483992 You can also join by phone at 312-626-6799 or 470-250-9358, using the same meeting number, followed by the pound sign (#), when prompted. If you have questions, please contact Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
G.R.O.W. Program Offers New Apprenticeship Opportunities
Extended! The Great Resource Opportunity Within program was created in cooperation with local unions for internal candidates who want to G.R.O.W. with F&S. The program establishes dedicated, long-term apprentice paths in the trades. Currently, two positions are available:
Carpenter Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15653
Mill Worker Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15654
The deadline to apply is now Monday, February 16. To be considered, F&S team members must submit their letter of interest, resume, and a letter of recommendation from their current supervisor(s). The candidate must also have at least three years’ continuous employment with F&S and no active formal disciplinary action. To learn more about the program, go to https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/g-r-o-w-program/. For questions, contact HR Coordinator Jennifer Weaver jdw86@illinois.edu.
New Team Member Orientation Dates
New Team Member Orientation sessions are held every two weeks (payroll Mondays), excluding holidays, in PPSB conference room 128. The orientation runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. New team members who are unable to attend on their start date should attend the next available offering. The next orientation is February 2. Supervisors are also encouraged to view the calendar and help facilitate departmental attendance. Your continued support is appreciated!
Upcoming Webinars
Find full information about upcoming opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue: two-day training (Tuesday and Thursday, March 3 and 5), 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Central Stores & Receiving conference room 1A.
Learn More
F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input about 2026 training and professional development opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
PCard Recertification
Do you have a Purchasing Card (PCard), or are you a Department Card Manager (DCM) or a delegate for a DCM? You will need to recertify before February 27, unless you completed the certification on or after October 1, 2025. To complete the recertification, go to https://answers.uillinois.edu/training/120630. If you no longer need a PCard, please turn the card in to your DCM, who will submit a cancellation request to UPAY Card Services. For policies and procedures, please access https://www.busfin.uillinois.edu/bfpp.

F&S HireRight Email
F&S team members whose positions require a motor vehicle record (MVR) check may have received an email this week from HireRight, the company helping to complete the process. The image (left) shows the top of the email. While it may look like a phishing scam, it is actually important to follow the steps the email outlines so the record check may be completed in a timely manner. Those required to complete the check should receive additional information directly from Illinois Human Resources. Questions may be addressed to Director of Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy Angela Cravens acravens@illinois.edu, 217-300-8344.

Council of Academic Professionals Meeting
President Killeen will join the virtual meeting on Thursday, February 5. If you have questions for consideration, please submit them by Tuesday, January 20. Questions are solicited in advance of the meeting so Killeen can address as many topics as possible; submit them to https://surveys.illinois.edu/sec/412739977. If you will be attending the February 5 meeting, please register at https://illinois.zoom.us/meeting/register/jF3BiDgGQo-QM7GkacvKNw#/registration.

Healthy Updates Flu Shots
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reports that flu cases in the state remain high, but less than 1/4 of eligible Illinoisans have received their flu shot. It’s not too late! IDPH has a vaccine finder dashboard and provider map at https://dph.illinois.gov/topics-services/prevention-wellness/immunization/vaccine-locator/dashboard.html. IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said, “Vaccinations remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness from flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Simple steps like covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, staying home when sick if you are able, and improving ventilation are also critical to preventing further spread.”

Get Covered Illinois
The deadline to enroll in Get Covered Illinois (the state’s official health insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act) has been extended. Residents now have until January 31 to obtain coverage. Visit GetCoveredIllinois.gov for more information or to enroll, or call the Customer Assistance Center at 1-866-311-1119 (TTY: 711). The Customer Assistance Center is offering extended hours through January 31.

Mindful Movement
Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services is offering a six-week series that will guide you through mindful meditations and easy stretching exercises. It meets Wednesdays from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., starting on February 4. To participate, fill out the form at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/547465630. Registration closes on January 28.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Fighting Illini Swimming—It’s the Illini versus Iowa and Nebraska at the Activities & Recreation Center Pool (201 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign) at 5 p.m. this evening, January 16, and 10 a.m., tomorrow, January 17. Tonight is Country Night. Go to https://fightingillini.com/news/2026/1/13/swimming-diving-illinois-swim-hosts-nebraska-and-iowa-divers-to-compete-in-iowa-city.aspx for more information.
Fighting Illini Women’s Gymnastics—The Illini take on Penn State at Huff Hall (1206 S. Fourth St., Champaign) at 7 p.m. this evening, January 16. It’s the first Big Ten meet for Illinois this season. Learn more at https://fightingillini.com/news/2026/1/14/womens-gymnastics-illini-verse-penn-state-in-home-opener.aspx.
Artventures for Kids—Kids five and up will enjoy the interactive time at the Krannert Art Museum (500 E. Peabody Dr., Champaign) on Saturday, January 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. The program includes stories, gallery exploration, and art making. Visit https://calendars.illinois.edu/detail/7?eventId=33539130 for more details.
MLK Events—Looking for a way to honor Dr. Martin Luther King this weekend? There are several events to choose from, including the 25th Annual Countywide Celebration on Sunday and the Day of Service on Monday. See the full list at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2026/01/11/martin-luther-king-champaign-urbana-events/.
Matinée at the Library—The Champaign Public Library (200 W. Green St., Champaign) will screen Wicked (2024; rated PG) on Sunday, January 18, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Enjoy the free showing of the story of the witches of Oz. For more information, visit https://champaign.org/event/matinee-at-the-library-wicked-15201770.
Understanding your SURS Benefits Webinar (Tier 1)—This session examines topics like how to earn and purchase service credit, sick leave, survivor benefits, and other retirement calculations. The free webinar takes place on Wednesday, January 21, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Register at https://surs.org/event/understanding-your-surs-benefits-webinar-tier-i/.
Save the Date January 19—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Designated Holiday) January 21—Noontime Knowledge January 21—Mentor Recruitment Lunch January 29—F&S Blood Drive February 25—Noontime Knowledge March 17—Midterm Primary Election

January 9, 2026

Click here to see this online Facilities & Services January 9, 2026 Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

G.R.O.W. Program Offers New Apprenticeship Opportunities
Final week to apply! The Great Resource Opportunity Within program was created in cooperation with local unions for internal candidates who want to G.R.O.W. with F&S. The program establishes dedicated, long-term apprentice paths in the trades. Currently, two positions are available: Carpenter Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15653 Mill Worker Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15654 The deadline to apply is Friday, January 16. To be considered, F&S team members must submit their letter of interest, resume, and a letter of recommendation from their current supervisor(s). The candidate must also have at least three years’ continuous employment with F&S and no active formal disciplinary action. To learn more about the program, go to https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/g-r-o-w-program/. For questions, contact HR Coordinator Jennifer Weaver jdw86@illinois.edu.

Join the Winter Blood Drive
According to the American Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds, making the need for blood constant and consistent. Blood is used to help patients survive traumatic injuries, cancer treatment, surgeries, and even chronic illnesses. Your blood donation can help save up to three lives. Please consider joining fellow team members and supporting the F&S Blood Drive on Thursday, January 29, between 8 a.m. and noon. The goal is to collect 18 pints for local hospitals, which could save up to 54 lives. Slots are still available for both whole blood and double red cell donations. To make an appointment, visit https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive or contact Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. This is an F&S-approved event, but team members must receive prior supervisory approval to participate. Employees may charge up to one hour, work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations.

Mentoring Recruitment Lunch
Do you enjoy talking to kids? If so, you’re a good candidate to be a mentor with CU One-to-One Mentoring. Local students (third grade and up) are actively seeking mentors who are willing to be there for them. No experience necessary. The mentoring gig is one hour a week during the school year, and the job is simply to show up and engage with the student. That might be through playing games, or sharing stories, or just actively listening to them. Each mentor-mentee dynamic is different because the people involved are different, but your one-hour-a-week effort makes a huge difference in the life of the child. Intrigued? Come learn more at the Mentor Recruitment Lunches at noon or 12:30 p.m., on Wednesday, January 21, in PPSB conference room 128. Pizza will be served at both sessions, and CU One-to-One staffers, Lauren Smith and Natalie Lessaris, will be on hand to explain the process and answer questions. F&S Mentors May Charge Time
Mentoring is an approved event at F&S, and up to an hour a week can be charged. For more information, contact Cynthia Cope cfcope2@illinois.edu, 217-333-6065, or Jim Sims jimsims@illinois.edu, 217-244-6425.

F&S Strategic Plan Update
The next F&S strategic plan, named “A Strategy for Service & Stewardship,” is in PDF form on the team member-only intranet, ERIN on the “Administration” page (https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/administration/). F&S team members must log in to ERIN with their U. of I. credentials to access the page and document. The plan provides a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen our workforce, enhance customer and stakeholder engagement, advance access and belonging, improve resource stewardship, and foster innovative collaboration. Through these initiatives, we are committed to operational excellence and ensuring that our efforts directly support the mission of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

iRead Volunteers Needed
Spread the joy of reading by helping young students. Do you remember when you were little and reading “clicked” for you? Suddenly the entire world (and beyond) was at your fingertips, within the pages of a book. The Champaign County Chamber of Commerce is hoping to open that door to the littlest readers by giving them extra attention through the iRead portion of their iRead • iCount program. You can volunteer in Champaign or Urbana schools to participate in the spring program, which runs March 3 to May 8. You’ll be asked to donate a one-hour block each week to work with a small group of students. Training and materials are supplied. This volunteer program is also a university-approved event. To learn more or find the application form, go to https://www.champaigncounty.org/iread-icount/. Applications are needed by January 30.

Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day
The F&S Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to learn more about Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through the documentary “Martin Luther King Jr.: Enough Is Enough.” The film looks at his life, his work, and his “legacy of courage and inspiration.” To join the Noontime Knowledge on Wednesday, January 21, at noon, use this link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/81809981063?pwd=LSRGFEfzsr7LEMrMk5BWPreeTnqF3U.1 Alternatively, open Zoom, click “Join a Meeting,” and enter the following meeting ID and password where prompted: Meeting ID: 818 0998 1063
Password: 483992 You can also join by phone at 312-626-6799 or 470-250-9358, using the same meeting number, followed by the pound sign (#), when prompted. If you have questions, please contact Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
New Team Member Orientation Dates for 2026
New Team Member Orientation sessions for this year are now on the F&S Training Calendar. Sessions are held every two weeks (payroll Mondays), excluding holidays, in PPSB conference room 128. The orientation runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. New team members who are unable to attend on their start date should attend the next available offering. The next orientation is February 2. Supervisors are also encouraged to view the calendar and help facilitate departmental attendance. Your continued support is appreciated!
Upcoming Webinars
Find information about 2026 opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. Some are listed below. 2026 APPA Membership Updates – January 13, 2026 [12–1 p.m.]
Join APPA to review changes and improvements to your membership in 2026! Building Organizational Trust – January 14, 2026 [10:30–11:30 a.m.]
Not only is trust essential for an organization, but it is also essential for individuals, especially those in leadership or managerial positions, because team members will respect and more readily accept the ideas of those they trust. In this webinar, we will learn how trust improves relationships at all levels, and you will learn how to exemplify the characteristics and behaviors of a trustworthy person. 5 Essential Laws for Employee Growth – January 14, 2026 [1–2 p.m.]
This webinar is designed for professionals who want to strengthen their effectiveness, increase their confidence, and create lasting progress in the year ahead. Participants will explore how these five laws can guide their decisions, relationships, and habits so growth becomes intentional rather than accidental. From Boomers to Zoomers: Bridging Generational Gaps in the Office – January 16, 2026 [10–11:30 a.m.]
This workshop will help you understand the various generations present at work and understand what motivates them and dealing with them on a daily basis. Folks from both generations will have many ideas to offer, which will help the organization thrive in the marketplace. Learning how to deal with the generation gaps at work will help you become a better manager or co-worker. Personal Productivity – January 16, 2026 [1–3 p.m.]
Boost efficiency and take control of your time with practical strategies for personal productivity. This course explores the power of routines, effective scheduling, task prioritization, and delegation. Participants will learn how to break down large projects, create professional routines that maximize focus, and implement systems that reduce stress and increase output. By adopting these tools, individuals can work smarter, stay organized, and achieve lasting results.

Learn More
F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input about 2026 training and professional development opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.

PCard Recertification
Do you have a Purchasing Card (PCard), or are you a Department Card Manager (DCM) or a delegate for a DCM? You will need to recertify before February 27, unless you completed the certification on or after October 1, 2025. To complete the recertification, go to https://answers.uillinois.edu/training/120630. If you no longer need a PCard, please turn the card in to your DCM, who will submit a cancellation request to UPAY Card Services. For policies and procedures, please access https://www.busfin.uillinois.edu/bfpp.

F&S Lost & Found
F&S has three separate Lost & Found locations. If you have lost or found items, please contact the appropriate location so belongings may be reunited with their owners. 1. The PPSB Lost & Found is located at the FIR Help Desk, room 177 (fandsfire@illinois.edu or 217-333-0923).

2. The Garage & Car Pool (GACP) Lost & Found is located at the front entrance counter in the GACP. It primarily covers items left in vehicles (217-333-3910).

3. The BSW Lost & Found is located on the second floor of the GACP building. It primarily covers items found in the campus buildings served by F&S that do not have their own Lost & Found locations (217-300-7288).

Midterm Primary Election
Tuesday, March 17 is the date for the Midterm Primary in Illinois. Note this is in the middle of the university’s spring break. It is already possible to request a mail-in ballot, which would be mailed to you on February 5, or within two days of your request if you make it after that date. Early in-person voting also begins February 5. Request a mail-in ballot at https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/many-ways-vote/vote-mail-information. Learn more about early voting at https://champaigncountyclerk.com/elections/many-ways-vote/early-voting-information. If you are considering using a mail-in ballot, please be aware that this year, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has changed the way it postmarks mail. Previously, the mail was postmarked on the date the USPS received the item. Now, postmarks will be dated to express when the USPS processed the item. This procedural change means if an item needs to be postmarked by a certain day (e.g., for a voting ballot or a tax return), you may need to allow for extra time to ensure it. Locally, mail now sent from home, work, or from a post office in, say Urbana, or Savoy, would not be postmarked until it arrives at the mailing processing center on Mattis in Champaign. Customers will still be able to take mail to any local post office and ask the postal clerk for a free, manual postmark. Please plan accordingly when mailing date-sensitive items. Learn more about this change at https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/how-this-new-mail-rule-could-affect-your-ballot-your-tax-return-and-more.

New Laws in Illinois
More than 460 new state laws were passed in 2025, with many of them starting on January 1. Here are a handful of them: The newly renamed Military Leave Act (formerly the Illinois Family Military Leave Act) provides employees who serve on funeral honors details (and who work for an employer with 51 or more employees), up to 8 hours per month (40 hours maximum per year) paid leave to perform this service without need to use their vacation or personal time. (SB 0220) Part-time workers are now also eligible, along with full-time workers, to take up to 10 days of paid leave to donate an organ. (HB 1616) The state has eliminated the waiting period to report a person missing. Police must take the report when requested to do so and cannot delay due to (among others) the person’s age, mental health status, that they may have left on their own free will, or because the person reporting is not a family member. (SB 0024) The Safe Gun Storage Act decrees that owners of firearms must securely store their guns if they know (or should know) that minors, people at risk of harming themselves or others, or those who are not allowed to have a gun may have access to the weapon(s). Unsafe storage may result in fines. (SB 0008) Employers are required to provide 30 minutes of paid break time to nursing mothers who need to express milk for up to one year after the child’s birth. (SB 0212) To see a roundup of these and other laws now in effect, visit https://www.illinoislegalaid.org/legal-information/what-illinois-laws-take-effect-january-1-2026.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Christmas Tree Recycling—The City of Champaign will collect natural Christmas trees set by the curb by 6 a.m. on Monday, January 12. The Landscape Recycling Center (1210 E. University Ave., Urbana) will also accept natural trees for free recycling during January with no residency requirement. Chambanamoms.com has more details at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/12/25/collections-christmas-trees-champaign-urbana/.
Harlem Globetrotters—Tickets are still available to see the Harlem Globetrotters on their 100 Year Tour. Experience the excitement at the State Farm Center (1800 S. First St., Champaign) tonight, January 9, at 7 p.m. Go to https://fightingillini.evenue.net/event/E25/0109 for more information.
Trivia—Trivia buffs have multiple opportunities to show off their skills this weekend. The trivia categories at the Champaign Public Library (200 W. Green St., Champaign; https://champaign.org/event/unbooked-trivia-14920311) tonight, January 9, look back at 2025 and also squirrels. Join the fun from 6 to 8 p.m. If older history is more your jam, head to The Literary (122 N. Neil St., Champaign; https://www.literarybookbar.com/), also tonight, between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m., where the Museum of the Grand Prairies staff will quiz you (solo) or your team (up to 7 people) on artifacts from their collection and other history-related questions. If Gilmore Girls Trivia is your cup of tea, you can test your Stars Hollow knowledge on Sunday, January 11, 2 p.m., at Yellow & Co. (1830 Patton Dr., Mahomet; https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trivia-gilmore-girls-theme-at-yellow-co-tickets-1977827253557).
Winter on the Lake—Meet the live ambassador animals for the Champaign County Forest Preserve at the Elks Lake Pavilion, Lake of the Woods (1600 Trillium Dr., Mahomet), on Saturday, January 10, between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m. You can also enjoy hands-on stations about lake ice, animal ecology, seasonal shifts, and other activities for all ages at this free event. Learn more at https://www.champaignforests.org/events/details/winter-on-the-lake.
Retirement Savings Plan Distributions Options Webinar—Do you have questions about how the financial distribution options of the Retirement Savings Plan (RSP) at retirement? Get answers at the free webinar on Wednesday, January 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will also “address retirement planning tools, types of annuities, the RSP Application process, timing of payments and available resources.” Register for the webinar at https://surs.org/event/retirement-savings-plan-rsp-distribution-options-webinar/.

Save the Date January 19—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Designated Holiday) January 29—F&S Blood Drive

December 19, 2025

December 12, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

F&S Holiday Gatherings Are Next Week
If you RSVP’d to attend an F&S Holiday Gathering, please mark your calendar to attend the event that best corresponds to your shift for some great food and festivities next week: Day: Wednesday, December 17, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Illinois Conference Center, Heritage Hall (1900 S. First St., Champaign) Afternoons: Wednesday, December 17, 7 to 8:30 p.m., also in Heritage Hall at the Illinois Conference Center (see above) Deep Nights: Thursday, December 18, 2 to 3:30 a.m., at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center (601 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana) Time Reporting
F&S Holiday Gatherings are approved events. Team members who take a 30-minute lunch should charge one hour on their time cards; those who take one-hour lunches should charge 30 minutes. Report the time on work order {XX-9999}, phase 065. Speak to your immediate supervisor regarding any scheduling questions or operational considerations. For any questions regarding disability-related accommodations, menu-related concerns about dietary offerings or food allergies, and general event items, contact Doni Walker dewalke@illinois.edu, 217-333-0101.

G.R.O.W. Program Offers New Apprenticeship Opportunities
The Great Resource Opportunity Within program was created in cooperation with local unions for internal candidates who want to G.R.O.W. with F&S. The program establishes dedicated, long-term apprentice paths in the trades. Currently, two positions are available: Carpenter Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15653 Mill Worker Apprentice: https://illinois.csod.com/ux/ats/careersite/4/home/requisition/15654 The deadline to apply is Friday, January 16, 2026. To be considered, F&S team members must submit their letter of interest, resume, and a letter of recommendation from their current supervisor(s). The candidate must also have at least three years’ continuous employment with F&S and no active formal disciplinary action. To learn more about the program, go to https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/g-r-o-w-program/. For questions, contact HR Coordinator, Jennifer Weaver jdw86@illinois.edu.

The University of Illinois Finishes Fifth in Big Ten Blood Drive
Altogether, the Abbott Big 10 “We Give Blood” competition collected 83,043 pints of blood, which is enough to save more than 249,000 lives. Illinois tied with Iowa for fifth. Wisconsin had the most donors, with 15,476, and Nebraska was a close second, with 14,551. They flip-flopped their first and second positions from 2024. Michigan and Ohio State rounded out the top five this year. Overall, donations were way up in the second year of the competition. In 2024, only about 20,000 pints were collected. This is an excellent result, as blood supplies remain low throughout the United States. Locally, for example, there is a critical need for O- blood.
F&S has its next blood drive scheduled for Thursday, January 29, with slots available from 8 a.m. to noon, for both whole blood and double red cell. You can sign up now at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive. Blood donation is an F&S-approved event, but team members must receive prior supervisory approval to participate. Individuals may charge up to one hour, work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations. Giving blood in the Bloodmobile typically takes around one hour for whole blood appointments, including the initial prescreening process. For questions, contact Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. Thanks for your continued support of ImpactLife and the Champaign-Urbana community!

Service Request App Upgrade
Continuing with F&S’ initiative to enhance existing web-based software and improve the overall user experience, the Service Request app in the my.FS Portal (https://my.fs.illinois.edu/fsportal/portal) will be updated on Tuesday, December 16. No significant maintenance downtime for the portal is expected ahead of this transition; users will be able to log in as usual once the changeover occurs. The upgrade will be similar to design enhancements made to other modules (e.g., AiM Account Request, Division of Responsibility, Voucher) and will include Duo security verification, making it a more seamless experience when using your NetID and password. New users, or those needing additional assistance with the Service Request app, can view a short training video at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/ServiceRequestAppTraining. For questions or to provide additional feedback, please contact the F&S Information Technology Services Support Desk fandssupportdesk@illinois.edu, 217-244-6350, or at https://supportdesk.fs.illinois.edu.

Toys for Tots Drive

Next week is the final collection week for the Toys for Tots program at F&S. Thank you to those who have already dropped off a toy. F&S elves have been packing them up for the Toys for Tots team. You can still help bring smiles and laughter to local kids this holiday season by donating a new, unwrapped toy or game to this year’s drive. Donation boxes are available in PPSB through Friday, December 19, at the following locations: West Hallway, near the Tool Room Near the Locksmiths Shop, just before the double doors to the Transportation Bay Southeast Lobby East Lobby For general information about Toys for Tots, please visit https://toysfortots.org.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: New Team Member Orientation Dates for 2026
New Team Member Orientation sessions for next year are now on the F&S Training Calendar. Sessions are held every two weeks (payroll Mondays), excluding holidays, in PPSB conference room 128. The orientation runs from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. New team members who are unable to attend on their start date should attend the next available offering. The final orientation of 2025 is on December 22. Supervisors are also encouraged to view the calendar and help facilitate departmental attendance. Your continued support is appreciated!
Addressing Conflict in Teams on December 18
Recognizing the importance of addressing conflict in personal and professional relationships is a key skill in teamwork. This workshop on Thursday, December 18, at 10 a.m., in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A, will explore how conflict arises and how it can be an opportunity for change and greater understanding. The session helps learners assess their personal conflict-management techniques and learn strategies to build their conflict-management skills.
More Upcoming Training Opportunities
Upcoming F&S training sessions include the following: APPA Quarterly Update: Tuesday, December 16, at noon, online. Leading Hybrid Teams: Tuesday, December 16, at 1 p.m., online. The Introverts’ Guide to Assertive Communication: Wednesday, December 17, at 1 p.m., online.

Learn More
Find information about these and other opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.

PCard Recertification
Do you have a Purchasing Card (PCard), or are you a Department Card Manager (DCM) or a delegate for a DCM? You will need to recertify before February 27, 2026, unless you completed the certification on or after October 1, 2025. To complete the recertification, go to https://answers.uillinois.edu/training/120630. If you no longer need a PCard, please turn the card in to your DCM, who will submit a cancellation request to UPAY Card Services. For policies and procedures, please access https://www.busfin.uillinois.edu/bfpp.

PLFAW Accounting
As the holidays roll around, workers eligible for Paid Leave for All Workers (PLFAW) may want to check their accrued leave totals. To do this, go to https://nessie.uihr.uillinois.edu and log in. First, click Earnings Statement and then click the Access Earnings Statement. This will pull up your statement for the most recent pay period. PLFAW accrued totals are listed in the second block, under Leave Description, PDLV4ALL.

Holiday Safety Tips: Online Shopping
It is important to be careful when shopping online throughout the year, but it is easy to get distracted during the bustle of the season. The National Cyber Security Alliance has some timely reminders: Never use public Wi-Fi for shopping. These networks are not secure. Think before you click. Pop-up ads with fabulous offers, account warnings, and other clickbait may look legitimate, but sometimes these links include malware or connect you with a scammer. If you want to explore that money-off incentive or see if you really had a renewal you weren’t expecting, go directly to the original source website instead of clicking the link. That way, you can be assured you are dealing with the actual company. Do your homework. Internet scams often revolve around fake sites. If you are making a purchase from a new vendor, look for information about the company and check reviews of their customer service before you engage. If a deal seems “to good to be true,” it probably is. Compare prices before you buy so you know what is typical. Make sure the site is secure before entering your personal information. Look for a locked padlock in the URL bar or check that the URL begins with HTTPS. These indicate the site uses encryption. Use complex passwords. If you need to set up a new password for a site, be sure to include a mix of numbers, letters, capitals, and symbols. Don’t use the same password for multiple sites. Where possible, also set up multifactor authentication. Consider your payment options. Credit cards usually offer more consumer protections than a debit card or a direct debit from your bank account. Be careful with your private information. Some information, such as name, address, and credit card information, is needed to complete an online transaction, but scammers may try to collect even more. Don’t give out your password or security information. Don’t save your payment information in your profile. Review your bank and credit card statements. Check your accounts for unauthorized activity. Learn more at https://www.staysafeonline.org/articles/safe-online-holiday-shopping. Remember: Think safety, so your holidays remain happy.

Dial-a-Carol is now open! Give us a ring. Hear us sing! Join the fun by calling 217-332-1882 through December 17.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
December Unbooked Trivia Night—Play on your own or bring friends to the Champaign Public Library (200 E. Green St., Champaign) trivia event, tonight, December 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. Topics include “toys, the movie Frozen, maps of fictional places, ‘wintry’ songs, and Taylor Swift trivia.” Join the fun in the Robeson Pavilion (rooms A & B). Learn more at https://champaign.org/event/unbooked-trivia-14151344.
Conversation Café—Practice your English, Spanish, or French at the Urbana Free Library (210 W. Green St., Urbana, in the Lewis Auditorium) on Saturday, December 13, between 11 and 11:45 a.m. Other languages may also be available depending on participants. For more information, go to https://urbanafreelibrary.libnet.info/event/13693774.
Dick’s House of Sport Holiday Extravaganza—The holiday spirit takes over the whole Dick’s store (2000 N. Neil St., Champaign) on Saturday, December 13, from 2 to 3 p.m. There will be holiday decorations, games, face painting, family photos, crafts, cookie decorating, hot chocolate, and more, as well as free rock wall, HitTrax, and golf simulator experiences. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/events/1099581/ for more details.
The Chorale Annual Christmas Concert—Enjoy “Season of Change” on Saturday, December 13, at 3:30 p.m., at Faith United Methodist Church (1719 S. Prospect Ave., Champaign). The Chorale will be joined by The University High School Choir, and there will be a carol sing-along portion of the performance. More information is available at https://www.thechoralecu.com/concerts.
Winter Light Spectacular—Downtown Urbana is hosting an immersive light show, which will be projected on Main Street, throughout alleys, and on storefronts between 6 and 9 p.m., on Saturday, December 13. Learn more about Winter Lights 2025 (and where to stop by for free hot cocoa or cider) at https://www.urbanail.gov/community-development-services/page/winter-lights-2025.
Winter Fantasia—Sinfonia da Camera presents their holiday concert on Saturday, December 13, at 7 p.m., at the Virginia Theatre (203 W. Park Ave., Champaign). The repertoire includes Vivaldi’s Winter Concerto from Four Seasons, as well as other favorites. For more information on the program or tickets, visit https://thevirginia.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1062.
Repair Café—Do you have broken items that need fixing? Don’t throw them out! Learn to repair them at the Repair Café, which is held on the third Thursday each month (next up: Thursday, December 18) from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Makerspace Urbana, which is in the basement of the Independent Media Center (202 S. Broadway Ave., Urbana). You can bring anything that needs mending, including clothes, blankets, kitchen appliances, electronics, small furniture, toys, and tools. Mentors will help walk you through the repair process, so you can learn to fix things yourself. Learn more at https://makerspaceurbana.org/event/repair-cafe/.

Save the Date Through December 17—Dial-a-Carol December 17 & 18—F&S Holiday Gatherings December 19—Shop and Departmental Holiday Parties Through December 19—Toys for Tots Collection at PPSB December 24—Gift Day December 25—Christmas Day Holiday December 26—Day after Christmas (Designated Holiday) December 29—President Designated Holiday December 30 & 31—Gift Days January 1—New Year’s Day Holiday January 19—Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Designated Holiday) January 29—F&S Blood Drive

December 5, 2025

November 26, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Upcoming Holidays
Ring in the season at the F&S Holiday Gatherings! Please attend the event that best corresponds to your shift for some great food and festivities: Day: Wednesday, December 17, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Illinois Conference Center, Heritage Hall (1900 S. First St., Champaign) Afternoons: Wednesday, December 17, 7 to 8:30 p.m., also in Heritage Hall at the Illinois Conference Center (see above) Deep Nights: Thursday, December 18, 2 to 3:30 a.m., at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center (601 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana) To help the F&S Team Member Appreciation and Recognition Committee with an accurate headcount, all team members who plan to attend should RSVP by Monday, December 8. This can be done by working through your shop/department to submit a group entry or sending one individually. The form is at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/HolidayGatherings.

Note: It is strongly recommended that each shop/department designate one person to collect registration information if responding as a group. Team members are asked to check with supervisors first before making an individual submission to help avoid duplicate entries.

Time Reporting
F&S Holiday Gatherings are approved events. Team members who take a 30-minute lunch should charge one hour on their time cards; those who take one-hour lunches should charge 30 minutes. Report the time on work order {XX-9999}, phase 065. Speak to your immediate supervisor regarding any scheduling questions or operational considerations. For any questions regarding disability-related accommodations, menu-related concerns about dietary offerings or food allergies, and general event items, contact Doni Walker dewalke@illinois.edu, 217-333-0101.

Thanksgiving Holiday: Gift Hour Reminder
Team members working an entire shift on Wednesday, November 26, may leave one hour early, regardless of shift. If you are eligible to use the gift hour, please charge it to work order {XX-9999}, phase 065. Please remember that this gift cannot be used to reduce vacation time already scheduled on the day before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Annual Key Audit Continues
Next week is the penultimate week for the key audit, and the following groups need to present their keys: Building Maintenance & Grounds: Preventive Maintenance Schedulers Capital Projects: Transportation Demand Management Customer Relations & Communications: Service Office Engineering & Construction Services: Facilities Information Resources Human Resources: ER/HR Support Staff Safety & Compliance: Occupational Safety & Health, Safety & Compliance Administration Shared Administrative Services: Stores & Receiving Sustainability Transportation & Building Services: (1) Garage/Motor Pool Overhead, Garage, Transportation, (2) Transportation & Automotive Services Administration, Waste Management & Recycling Utilities & Energy Services: EMS Preventive Maintenance Crew, Systems & Controls, Utilities Building Operators A composite schedule is available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/KeyAudit. The physical key audit is an F&S-approved event, and time should be charged to work order {XX-9999}, phase 025. For questions, please contact Greg Granadino, locksmith foreperson, granadin@illinois.edu, 217-333-1907.

Toys for Tots Drive
Now in its 88th year, the Toys for Tots program ensures children are not overlooked at the holidays. Last year, the Champaign County Toys for Tots drive supported 6,490 local children and families in need. You can help bring smiles and laughter this holiday season by donating a new, unwrapped toy or game to this year’s drive. Donation boxes are available in PPSB through Friday, December 19, in the following locations: West Hallway, near the Tool Room Near the Locksmiths Shop, just before the double doors to the Transportation Bay Southeast Lobby East Lobby For general information about Toys for Tots, please visit https://toysfortots.org.

Media Training
There is still time to sign up for this new training from Customer Relations & Communications (CRC)! F&S Media Relations’ efforts are critical to helping share information and stories to the campus community, as well as others within the region, state, and beyond offers insight into this process and includes an overview of F&S Media Relations Policy Campus Administrative Manual site approval and testimonial policies Local media trends and engagement volume CRC’s overall media response approach and strategies Attendees will also learn about CRC’s comprehensive media relations services, including news organization inquiry response, vendor marketing requests, intra-unit communication assistance, crisis communications, website news and alert updates, and social media engagement. There will also be time to ask questions specific to your needs. The inaugural in-person session is Friday, December 5, from 11 a.m. to noon, in PPSB conference room 128. Register using the form at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/29974227. More information and resources regarding F&S Media Relations activities are available on ERIN at https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/media-relations/. For questions, contact Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: Upcoming Training Opportunities
Upcoming F&S training sessions include the following: The Impact of Leading with Kindness You Can’t Ignore: Wednesday, December 3, at 1 p.m., online. From the Ground Up: How Peoria USD Built a Smarter Facilities Program with Preventative Maintenance at the Core: Thursday, December 4, at noon, online. F&S Media Relations Training: Friday, December 5, at 11 a.m. PPSB conference room 128. How Peer Support Is Redefining Workplace Mental Health: Wednesday, December 10, at 1 p.m., online.

New Team Member Orientation
If you supervise team members, your cooperation in ensuring they attend New Team Member Orientation is appreciated. Sessions are held in person twice a month in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. The next orientation is Monday, December 8, at 8 a.m.

Learn More
Find information about these and other opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.

PCard Recertification
Begins Next Week! Do you have a Purchasing Card (PCard), or are you a Department Card Manager (DCM) or a delegate for a DCM? You will need to recertify between December 1, 2025, and February 27, 2026, unless you completed the certification on or after October 1, 2025. To complete the recertification, go to https://answers.uillinois.edu/training/120630. If you no longer need a PCard, please turn the card in to your DCM, who will submit a cancellation request to UPAY Card Services. For policies and procedures, please access https://www.busfin.uillinois.edu/bfpp.

Safety in the Kitchen

Fire Safety
Thanksgiving is the peak day each year for home fires related to cooking—in fact, there are three times as many instances on this day than any other during the calendar year. In 2022, more than 1,600 such fires were reported to fire departments in the United States on Thanksgiving Day. How can you protect yourself? Follow these guidelines to have a safe and happy holiday: Don’t leave food unattended when using a heat source (stovetop, oven, grill, fryer, etc.) to cook it. Don’t overfill fryers with oil, and use turkey fryers outdoors, away from walls and other combustible items. Completely thaw and dry the turkey before adding it to hot oil. Keep flammable items (e.g., towels, paper, potholders, etc.) away from heat sources. Keep your cooking space free of hazards that could cause an accident, such as a dangling cord that could dislodge an appliance if pulled or clutter on the floor that could be tripped over. Keep children and pets away from cooking areas. Be especially careful when they are around hot food and liquids that could splash or cause steam or heat burns. Extinguish candles when leaving a room empty or where only children/pets will remain. The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal offers additional tips at https://sfm.illinois.gov/currentfocus/cooking-safety.html.

Preventing Foodborne Illness
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) encourages people to follow basic food safety guidelines this holiday season. Thaw your turkey in the refrigerator to prevent harmful germs or bacteria from growing. You will need about 24 hours for every five pounds of turkey. If this is not quick enough, you can fill the sink with cold water and place the wrapped turkey in it. Change the water every 30 minutes. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before, during, and after preparing food, especially when handling the turkey. This helps prevent spreading germs between dishes. Also wash cooking equipment (cutting boards, utensils, countertops, etc.). This is especially important for anything that came in contact with raw turkey. Keep foods separate. Use separate dishes and cutting boards for meats, fish, produce, bread, and other foods. Cook food to the proper internal temperature. For turkey, that is 165 degrees. IDPH recommends testing in three places: “the thickest part of the breast, the innermost part of the thigh, and the innermost part of the wing.” If you used stuffing/dressing, make sure it also reaches 165 degrees in the center. Promptly refrigerate leftovers (within two hours of serving). After two hours at room temperature, discard any food that is meant to be kept hot or cold. Reheat refrigerated leftovers within four days of first use. Ensure to heat them to 165 degrees before serving. Read the full news release at https://dph.illinois.gov/resource-center/news/2025/november/release-20251124.html.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community Illinois Wastewater Surveillance System (IWSS)—During the time of holiday visits, it is often helpful to know which way respiratory diseases are trending. IDPH and Discovery Partners Institute maintain a website with data from 78 actively monitored locations in Illinois, including one in Champaign and one in Urbana. Click any monitoring site on the map at https://iwss.uillinois.edu/ to pull up the latest data. Then click through the tabs to see the details on COVID (SARS-CoV-2), Influenza, and RSV in that area. If you’re traveling out of state, check the state’s public health site. Many other states maintain dashboards on wastewater testing.

Holiday Lights—Night Lights at Lake of the Woods’ Mabery Gelvin Botanical Garden (950 N. Lombard St., Mahomet) will be open Friday and Saturday evenings, beginning this Friday, November 28, through December 27, with an additional opportunity on Wednesday, December 24. The gardens are illuminated between 4 and 8 p.m. each evening. Learn more at https://www.champaignforests.org/events/details/night-lights-2025.
Winter Nights at Prairie Farm (2202 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign) runs Thursdays to Sundays (except December 25) through December 28. Lights are on between 5 and 9 p.m., beginning Friday, November 28. Sensory-friendly evenings are still TBD, but check https://champaignparks.org/winter-nights-at-prairie-farm/ for more details.
ELF—If your holiday tradition includes the movie Elf, why not see it on the big screen? The Champaign Park District’s Virginia Theatre (203 W. Park Ave., Champaign) has two showings on Saturday, November 29, at 1 and 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit https://thevirginia.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1071.
Messiah Sing-Along—Join in singing the choral parts of Handel’s famous work (soloists and organist provided) or just come listen. The Messiah Sing-Along is a fun holiday tradition from the Baroque Artists of Champaign-Urbana (BACH). Sing in the holiday season, Sunday, November 30, at 4 p.m., at the First Baptist Church in Savoy (1602 S. Prospect Ave., Savoy). Go to https://www.baroqueartists.org/events for more details.

Smile Politely’s Guide to Shopping Locally—If you are beginning to tackle your gift shopping for the holiday season, you might want to peruse this list: https://www.smilepolitely.com/culture/the-2025-guide-to-shopping-locally/. It offers many ideas and suggestions for gift-giving with a local flair, including experiences, food and drink, and locally owned businesses. It could be a big help when you’re making your list and checking it twice.

Save the Date November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving Holidays December 17 & 18—F&S Holiday Gatherings December 19—Shop and Departmental Holiday Parties December 24—Gift Day December 25—Christmas Day Holiday December 26—Day after Christmas (Designated Holiday) December 29—President Designated Holiday December 30 & 31—Gift Days January 1—New Year’s Day Holiday

November 21, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Upcoming Holidays
Ring in the holiday season at the F&S Holiday Gatherings! Please attend the event that best corresponds to your shift for some great food and festivities: Day: Wednesday, December 17, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Illinois Conference Center, Heritage Hall (1900 S. First St., Champaign) Afternoons: Wednesday, December 17, 7 to 8:30 p.m., also in Heritage Hall at the Illinois Conference Center (see above) Deep Nights: Thursday, December 18, 2 to 3:30 a.m., at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center (601 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana) To help the F&S Team Member Appreciation and Recognition Committee with an accurate headcount, all team members who plan to attend should RSVP by Monday, December 8. This can be done by working through your shop/department to submit a group entry or sending one individually. The form is at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/HolidayGatherings.

Note: It is strongly recommended that each shop/department designate one person to collect registration information if responding as a group. Team members are asked to check with supervisors first before making an individual submission to help avoid duplicate entries.

Time Reporting
F&S Holiday Gatherings are approved events. Team members who take a 30-minute lunch should charge one hour on their time cards; those who take one-hour lunches should charge 30 minutes. Report the time on work order {XX-9999}, phase 065. Speak to your immediate supervisor regarding any scheduling questions or operational considerations. For any questions regarding disability-related accommodations, menu-related concerns about dietary offerings or food allergies, and general event items, contact Doni Walker dewalke@illinois.edu, 217-333-0101.

Thanksgiving Holiday – Gift Hour Reminder
Team members working an entire shift on Wednesday, November 26, may leave one hour early, regardless of shift. If you are eligible to use the gift hour, please charge it to work order {XX-9999}, phase 065. Please remember that this gift cannot be used to reduce vacation time already scheduled on the day before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Annual Key Audit Continues
The key audit will skip next week because of the Thanksgiving holiday. A composite schedule is available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/KeyAudit. When it is your turn, please be prepared to present your keys at the designated table in the West Hallway. To help ensure the most efficient and effective process possible for everyone involved, please note the following: Bring all campus keys in your possession, including any keys that you may have acquired informally. Mention any lost keys for the accuracy of future records. Return any keys you no longer use or do not want to be responsible for. The physical key audit is an F&S-approved event, and time should be charged to work order {XX-9999}, phase 025. For questions, please contact Greg Granadino, locksmith foreperson, granadin@illinois.edu, 217-333-1907.

University Branding: Illinois-Branded Apparel or Merchandise
Illinois-branded apparel and merchandise designed by an F&S shop, department, or division must now receive written approval from Customer Relations & Communications (CRC) prior to proceeding with any purchase. This includes anything that features our unit’s name, the university’s name, or any associated wordmarks or logos like the Block I. This applies to items for both internal and external use, such as conference swag, office materials, and any other branded materials. Members of the CRC team are the subject matter experts in this area and can assist with ensuring all designs are in university branding compliance. Note: New runs of previously approved apparel and merchandise will still need review and approval. Please send all pre-approval requests and related inquiries to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu. A PDF of the approval must accompany all procurement requests entered in my.FS Portal and be attached to any PCard transactions. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for ensuring we stay aligned with campus branding standards.

Schneider Electric EBO Upgrade Next Week
The Schneider Electric EBO building automation system (BAS) will be upgraded to version 7 next week, from November 24 to 26. There will be outages during those dates. Once the work is complete, users will again be able to access EBO via web at https://ebocentral.fssc.illinois.edu. Contact the F&S Energy Management Control Center (EMCC) fandsenergycomm@illinois.edu, 217-244-3783, for questions. Please include “EBO Upgrade” in the subject line if sending an email.

Illini Hall Replacement Project Street Closure – Crane Installation Next Week
Crane placement at the former Illini Hall site will occur next week with the following effects: John Street, between Wright Street and Sixth Street, will be closed Monday, November 24 through Wednesday, November 26, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. The north sidewalk and portions of the south sidewalk on John Street will also be closed during this period, but access to adjacent facilities and businesses will be maintained. On-street metered parking spaces will be unavailable in the vicinity of the work. The covered walkway on the west side of Wright Street will be closed, and pedestrians will be rerouted entirely to the east side of the road. As always, thank you for your patience as this necessary equipment is installed and for utilizing extra caution in construction zones. Information about campus street, sidewalk, and pathway closures is always available at https://fs.illinois.edu/News/Category/closures/. Questions? Contact Transportation Systems Manager Stacey DeLorenzo sdeloren@illinois.edu, 217-300-1750.

Fall Break MTD Service Reductions
Beginning tomorrow, Saturday, November 22, the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) will reduce service through Saturday, November 29. The 1 Yellow Hopper will not run at all during this period. Routes with reduced hours include 12 Teal, 13 silver, 22/220 Illini Limited, 50 Green, 100 Yellow, 120 Teal, and 13 Silver. SafeRides will also reduce hours during this time period, operating between 5 p.m. and 12:30 a.m., with reservations ending at midnight. Note: No MTD buses will be in service on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27. For more details on the exact restrictions for each affected route, visit https://mtd.org/inside/mtd-pulse/fall-break-service-reductions-begin-november-22-no-thanksgiving-service/. Media Training
F&S Media Relations’ efforts are critical to helping share F&S information and stories to the campus community, as well as others within the region, state, and beyond. A new training from Customer Relations & Communications (CRC) offers insight into this process and includes an overview of F&S Media Relations Policy Campus Administrative Manual site approval and testimonial policies Local media trends and engagement volume CRC’s overall media response approach and strategies Attendees will also learn about CRC’s comprehensive media relations services, including news organization inquiry response, vendor marketing requests, intra-unit communication assistance, crisis communications, website news and alert updates, and social media engagement. To help you better understand how your work responsibilities and assignments can benefit from this support, CRC is offering this new F&S’ Media Relations Training to everyone. The presentation will be followed by a Q&A, that explains how the division can collaborate with you to assist with comprehensive response and development strategies whenever necessary. The inaugural in-person session is Friday, December 5, from 11 a.m. to noon, in PPSB conference room 128. Register using the form at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/29974227. More information and resources regarding F&S Media Relations activities are available on ERIN at https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/media-relations/. For questions, contact Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
Upcoming Training Opportunities
Upcoming F&S training sessions include the following: Know Your Rights—Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity: Tuesday, November 25, at 1 p.m., online. Strategic Planning 101: Wednesday, November 26, at 10 a.m., online. Understanding Implicit Bias (mini presentation): Wednesday, November 26, at 1 p.m., online. F&S Media Relations Training: Friday, December 5, at 11 a.m. PPSB conference room 128.
New Team Member Orientation
If you supervise team members, your cooperation in ensuring they attend New Team Member Orientation is appreciated. Sessions are held in person twice a month in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. The next orientation is Monday, November 24, at 8 a.m.
Learn More
Find information about these and other opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
When Must You Report a Significant Injury that Occurred on Campus?
Some injuries must be immediately reported to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). These include hospitalizations, amputations, and fatalities. Go to https://fs.illinois.edu/employee-safety-and-health/ and click the Injury Management tab to learn more about which injuries require reporting and how to do so. For questions, contact oshs@illinois.edu, 217-265-9828.
PCard Recertification
Do you have a Purchasing Card (PCard), or are you a Department Card Manager (DCM) or a delegate for a DCM? You will need to recertify between December 1, 2025, and February 27, 2026, unless you completed the certification on or after October 1, 2025. To complete the recertification, go to https://answers.uillinois.edu/training/120630. If you no longer need a PCard, please turn the card in to your DCM who will submit a cancellation request to UPAY Card Services. For policies and procedures, please access https://www.busfin.uillinois.edu/bfpp.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community

Thanksgiving Dinner—Looking for somewhere to eat next week? Chambamamoms has a list of restaurants open: https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/11/13/eat-on-thanksgiving-champaign-urbana/. Smile Politely has their own list: https://www.smilepolitely.com/splog/whats-on-the-menu-for-thanksgiving-2025/. Of note, the Urbana High School (UHS) Student Council is hosting its 52nd community Thanksgiving dinner from 4 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, November 27. The meal is free, and no reservation is needed. Enter the high school (1002 S. Race St., Urbana ) at Door 1. Find the gathering in the UHS Commons. Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/p/DRC9GTdDdQH/.
Turkey Trot—The Urbana Park District’s 58th annual Turkey Trot takes place in Crystal Lake Park (206 W. Park, Urbana; park at the Special Event Lot on Broadway Ave.). Walk-in registration/check-in begins at 8 a.m., and the race is at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning (November 27). Run, walk, or trot one of two paved paths: the short route (0.7 miles) or the long route (1.3 miles). A door prize raffle is held after the race. It’s free to participate, but they are accepting donations for the Urbana Park District Scholarship Fund. Learn more at https://www.urbanaparks.org/calendar/events/free–58th-annual-turkey-trot.
Strange Wonders from the Band World—The Sousa Archives and Center for American Music are presenting “exotic and unusual musical instruments created by ingenious inventors [who] ranged the world’s concert stages during the 19th and early 20th centuries” in honor of American Music Month. The exhibit is in the Main Library Gallery (1408 W. Gregory Dr., Urbana) and is open during regular library hours through Sunday, November 30. Visit https://calendars.illinois.edu/detail/1546/33534093 for more details.
A Chorus Line: Teen Edition—Champaign Central Drama Club presents the musical on Friday and Saturday, November 21 and 22 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, November 23, at 2:30 p.m. in the Decker Theatre at the high school (610 W. University Ave., Champaign). The full-length performance has been adapted for teen actors and family audiences. Tickets are available at the door. Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/p/Champaign-Central-High-School-Drama-Club-61564144468963/.
Holiday Events—Local communities are already rolling out their holiday offerings. If you enjoy light displays, craft fairs, holiday markets, movies and hot chocolate, parades, ballet, or other festive events, you will love the already extensive, and still growing, list of things to do in Central Illinois and beyond this holiday season. For example, several holiday-favorite markets (e.g., Festival of the Trees, Christmas Craft Show at Gordyville, Mistletoe Market) are this weekend. Check out all the fun at https://www.chambanamoms.com/events/categories/winter-holiday-season/.
Holiday Photo Op—Use the festively decorated Mezzanine Lobby at the Virginia Theatre (203 W. Park Ave., Champaign) as the backdrop for your holiday photos. Bring the family or a group of friends and a camera. No cost or reservations are involved; however, so everyone can participate, people are asked to limit their session to 10 minutes. The lobby will be open for photos on four weekday evenings (November 25 and December 3, 8, and 11) from 5 to 7 p.m. For more, visit https://thevirginia.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1081.

Save the Date November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving Holidays December 17 & 18—F&S Holiday Gatherings December 19—Shop and Departmental Holiday Parties December 24—Gift Day December 25—Christmas Day Holiday December 26—Day after Christmas (Designated Holiday) December 29—President Designated Holiday December 30 & 31—Gift Days January 1—New Year’s Day Holiday

November 14, 2025

The nominating period for the Chancellor's Staff Excellence Awards is now open

November 7, 2025

October 31, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Annual Key Audit Continues
The annual physical key audit is underway. Each shop, department, or division will have an assigned period to participate in reporting keys. Next week, cement finishers, direct digital controls team members, elevator mechanics, ironworkers, mill workers, operating engineers, refrigeration mechanics, roofers, and temperature control mechanics are scheduled to participate in this process. A composite schedule is available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/KeyAudit. When it is your turn, please be prepared to present your keys at the designated table in the West Hallway. To help ensure the most efficient and effective process possible for everyone involved, please note the following: Bring all campus keys in your possession, including any keys that you may have acquired informally. Mention any lost keys for the accuracy of future records. Return any keys you no longer use or do not want to be responsible for. The physical key audit is an F&S-approved event, and time should be charged to work order {XX-9999}, phase 025. For questions, please contact Greg Granadino, locksmith foreperson, granadin@illinois.edu, 217-333-1907.

Overtime Approval Policy Updated
If you approve overtime, assign overtime, or are eligible for overtime at F&S, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with the updated Overtime Approval Policy. It outlines the following: Who are authorized approvers? What are the preapproval requirements? How is the policy in compliance with other agreements and policies? What documentation and record keeping is needed? How does monitoring and accountability work for overtime use? To view the updated policy pages, go to https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/Policies/ on ERIN (you’ll need to log in) and select Overtime Approval from the alphabetical list. Questions about the policy may be addressed to the director of Human Resources, Diversity, & Strategy fandsdlhr@mx.uillinois.edu, 217-300-8344.

CCFD Updates Abbott Power Plant Lunch for Crisis Nursery
There is still time to join a delicious tradition at F&S by ordering a pork sandwich in support of Crisis Nursery, which provides emergency-based childcare to Champaign County, 24/7/365. The annual lunch will take place on Thursday, November 13. Dine in or pick up your meal (pork chop sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, and a cookie) between 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., at the Abbott North Trailer (1117 S. Oak St., Champaign). Delivery is also available; to do this, please include your name, campus address, and room/office number with your RSVP email. To reserve your lunch, email Robin Royer rroyer@illinois.edu by November 11. Although a donation of $30 is suggested, all contributions are greatly appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Crisis Nursery. This lunch is sponsored through a partnership between F&S and the Kappa Delta Sorority. Learn more about the work Crisis Nursery does at https://crisisnursery.net/. Together, we make change!
We’re in the final two weeks of the CCFD campaign, but it’s not too late to donate! All gifts, large or small, are appreciated. The CCFD team recognizes that times can be tough, even for university employees, and that what you gave in the past may not be possible this year. But ANY gift is helpful for the charities you support, whether that’s a payroll deduction or a one-time gift. If you are able, please consider making a donation to a cause close to your heart. Do you want to check your CCFD giving history? This is easy to do by going to https://ccfd.illinois.edu/give/; then follow these steps: Click the big orange Give button. Click Sign In at the top right. Choose “I am a current employee . . .” Sign in with your NetID and password, using 2FA protocol. Once you’re signed in, choose, “My Giving History,” from the Give pull-down menu. This will bring up your giving history. Click the year buttons at the left to toggle to different years. Thank you if you have already donated during this campaign. Thank you to those who are still considering doing so. We are the change we need!

Tailgate Recycling Introduces the Zero Waste Station
If you are attending the Illini/Terrapins game on Saturday, November 15, we’ll bring the recycling bins to you! Look for the new mobile recycling station that will be rolling through the tailgating areas in Lots 31 and 32 near Gies Memorial Stadium to help fans more easily participate in recycling efforts. Simply add your bottles and cans to the “Sustainability Gator,” or if you are not in those lots, look for the blue recycling barrels, orange and blue recycling boxes, or the green dumpster on First Street. Any of these methods will ensure your recyclables stay out of the waste stream. Volunteers Needed!
Recycling your own items is great, but those who want to make an even bigger impact can sign up to help on game day! Students, faculty, staff, and community members are all welcome. Come enjoy the tailgating atmosphere (whether you have a game ticket or not!), celebrate with other fans, and help with campus’ zero waste efforts. To learn more or to sign up, visit https://go.fs.illinois.edu/TailgateVolunteer. For general campus waste management information (how it works/what is recycled) and Illinois Climate Action Plan (iCAP) Zero Waste progress, contact Daphne Hulse dlhulse2@illinois.edu, 217-333-7550.

Motorcycle Parking at PPSB
Although the weather has turned cooler, team members are reminded that some colleagues continue to ride their motorcycles to work. The designated motorcycle parking area remains in place throughout the year. Please do not park personal or F&S vehicles in these spaces. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.

University Fleet Fuel Card Expire Today!
All WEX fleet fuel cards issued to campus academic, administrative, and auxiliary units expire today, Friday, October 31, regardless of the listed expiration date, and must be replaced. Departments operating university vehicles need to acquire new cards in person at the Garage and Car Pool (1701 South Oak Street, Champaign) before 4 p.m. For questions, call 217-333-3910.

Daylight Saving Time Ends
Enjoy your extra hour this weekend after you set your clocks back one hour. Daylight Saving Time officially ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2. This is also an excellent time to check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working. Remember to change out older batteries in these devices.

Upcoming Conferences, Programs, and Webinars
Innovative Thermal Management Strategies and Solutions for Modern Buildings—Wednesday, November 5, at noon (1 p.m. EST)—The International District Energy Association (IDEA) presents this webinar, sponsored by Trane, that explores practical solutions to thermal management issues using four case studies that feature diverse building types and climate conditions. Go to https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6117579573314/WN_8raSsdLAT1Wjqwer-Sit2Q#/registration to register or to read more about this webinar. If you can’t make the Wednesday time, register anyway and IDEA will send you the recording the next day.
CampusEnergy2026—February 17 to 20, 2026—The International District Energy Association (IDEA) is hosting this conference in Washington, DC. Receive an early registration discount if you sign up by November 12. Learn more or register at https://www.districtenergy.org/campusenergy2026/registration.
Transportation Improvements Near Garage and Car Pool
You may have already noticed work being done on both sides of South Oak Street near the Garage and Car Pool (GACP) primary vehicle entrance. Sidewalk, crosswalk, and accessibility upgrades will improve access for pedestrians, including F&S team members, in the area. The entrance will be fully closed beginning Monday, November 3, so this work can be completed. Expect the closure to last two weeks, weather permitting. Those needing to access GACP for vehicle rentals, garage support, or fuel service should utilize the facility’s alternate north or south entrances from South Oak Street during this time. These entrances, one north and one south of the primary vehicle entrance, both loop back to the main area. Those driving or walking in this area during this work should use caution and follow traffic control signs. For questions or assistance, contact Neil Franzen franzen2@illinois.edu, 217-333-2890.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: Upcoming Training Opportunities
Upcoming F&S training sessions include the following: From QA to Validation and AI: The Data Revolution in Cleaning Operations: Wednesday, November 5, at noon, online. Fostering a Culture of Feedback: Thursday, November 13, at 10 a.m., Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. This event is part of the Leadership series. Using Data in Maintenance & Operations Decisions: Thursday, November 13, at noon, online. Elevating Campus Safety: Future-Proofing Elevator Emergency Communications: Thursday, November 20, at noon, online. F&S Media Relations Training: Friday, December 5, at 11 a.m. PPSB conference room 128.
New Team Member Orientation
If you supervise team members, your cooperation in ensuring they attend New Team Member Orientation is appreciated. Sessions are held in person twice a month in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. The next orientation is Monday, November 10, at 8 a.m.
Learn More
Find information about these and other opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.

Flu Clinics
Flu shots are now available on campus and in the community. Visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information for information about obtaining the shot on campus. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/ for a roundup of availability at local clinics (e.g., Carle, Christie) and pharmacies.

When Must You Report a Significant Injury that Occurred on Campus?
Some injuries must be immediately reported to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). These include hospitalizations, amputations, and fatalities. Go to https://fs.illinois.edu/employee-safety-and-health/ and click the Injury Management tab to learn more about which injuries require reporting and how to do so. For questions, contact oshs@illinois.edu, 217-265-9828.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Dads Weekend Events—Celebrate Dad this weekend with a host of family-friendly events, including Illini Hockey (Illinois v. Rutgers on Friday and Saturday, October 31 and November 1), an a cappella concert from “No Comment” featuring “Awaaz” and “Girls Next Door” on Saturday, and a 5K run on Sunday, November 2. See details on these and other events at https://www.illinidads.com/dad-s-weekend. The Varsity Men’s Glee Club also has a Dads Day Concert on Saturday, November 1, at 7:30 p.m. Learn more about this concert at https://krannertcenter.com/events/varsity-mens-glee-club-dads-day-concert.
Courage to Remember—An international traveling exhibit about the Holocaust is open to visitors at the Marketplace Shopping Center (2000 N. Neil St., Champaign) tonight (until 7 p.m.) and tomorrow (Saturday, November 1, noon to 5 p.m.). The exhibit has large panels, with illustrations and text, including first-person accounts, historical photos, and maps. The free exhibit was created by the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance and has been seen by more than 20 million visitors in 50 countries. For more information, visit https://experiencecu.org/events/calendar-of-events?event=20409.
Dia de los Muertos Celebration—¡Todos son bienvenidos! All are welcome at this day filled with music, memories, cultural activities, food, and health and wellness activities from the Carle Illinois College of Medicine. Come to the Martens Center (1515 N Market St., Champaign) on Saturday, November 1, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., to enjoy this free event sponsored by the Champaign Park District. Visit https://champaignparks.org/event/dia-de-los-muertos-celebration/ for more information.
Pumpkin Recycling—Don’t trash your old pumpkins! Smash ’em at the Pumpkin Smash on Saturday, November 8, between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Urbana Recycling Center (1210 E. University Avenue, Urbana). Smashed pumpkins will make compost to grow new plants. Learn more at https://www.ccenvstew.org/pumpkin-smash-event-on-saturday-nov-8/. University of Illinois Extension has additional information about why recycling your pumpkins helps the environment and a link to a list of other sites running similar events if Urbana is not convenient at https://extension.illinois.edu/environment/pumpkin-smash.
Thanksgiving Turkey Orders—If you like to leave the cooking to others on Thanksgiving, area businesses are now taking preorders for turkeys and other holiday meats. See the list at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/10/19/turkey-thanksgiving-champaign-urbana/.
H.O.Y.C.E. Center Annual Gift Drive—The H.O.Y.C.E. (Helping Our Youth Change Everyday) holiday gift drive is underway. They serve more than 600 local youth, from newborn to age 17, each year and need help collecting toys, pajamas, books, coats, and other basic needs for local families. Volunteers are also needed to help with event setup and gift distribution on December 6. To see drop-off locations, volunteer information, and more, go to https://www.hoycecenter.org/. If you know a family in need, registration to participate opens November 17 and closes December 1. The form will be available at https://www.hoycecenter.org/seasonofgiving.
Save the Date November 11—Veterans Day Through November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive November 13—Abbott Power Plant Charity Lunch for Crisis Nursery November 15—Tailgate Recycling at the Illini vs. Maryland Game November 19—Noontime Knowledge November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

October 24, 2025

October 17, 2025

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Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update
F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)
Annual Key Audit Begins October 21
Next week, the annual physical key audit gets underway. Each shop, department, or division will have an assigned period to participate in reporting keys. A composite schedule is available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/KeyAudit. When it is your turn, please be prepared to present your keys at the designated table in the West Hallway. To help ensure the most efficient and effective process possible for everyone involved, please note the following: Bring all campus keys in your possession, including any keys that you may have acquired informally. Mention any lost keys for the accuracy of future records. Return any keys you no longer use or do not want to be responsible for. The physical key audit is an F&S-approved event, and time should be charged to work order {XX-9999}, phase 025. For questions, please contact Greg Granadino, locksmith foreperson, granadin@illinois.edu, 217-333-1907.

Noontime Knowledge Special Event
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to an LGBTQ+ history and culture tour of the Spurlock Museum (600 S. Gregory St., Urbana; meet at the entrance) on Wednesday, October 22, between noon and 1 p.m., in celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month. This in-person event will explore some of the LGBTQ+ objects in the museum’s collection, which come from Champaign-Urbana and around the world. Learn more about the museum and its many exhibits at https://www.spurlock.illinois.edu. Please RSVP to Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905, by October 21, if you’d like to attend, so a head count can be given to the museum.

CCFD Updates: Together, we make change!
This year’s CCFD campaign has reached the halfway mark! Thank you to everyone who has already donated! Your contributions help charities locally, nationally, and globally. Small gifts add up! If you have yet to donate, visit the CCFD website (https://ccfd.illinois.edu/give/) to contribute via payroll (begins January 1) or via a one-time donation today. Search for a charity by clicking the Agencies tab at the top or from the dropdown menu. Click Give to begin your donation. Still have questions? Check out the FAQ tab to see the answers to many common ones. Abbott Power Plant Charity Lunch for Crisis Nursery
Join a delicious tradition at F&S by ordering a pork sandwich in support of Crisis Nursery, which provides emergency-based childcare to Champaign County, 24/7/365. The annual lunch will take place on Thursday, November 13. Dine in or pick up your meal (pork chop sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, and a cookie) between 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., at the Abbott North Trailer (1117 S. Oak St., Champaign). Delivery is also available; to do this, please include your name, campus address, and room/office number with your RSVP email. To reserve your lunch, email Robin Royer rroyer@illinois.edu by November 11. Although a donation of $30 is suggested, all contributions are greatly appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Crisis Nursery. This lunch is sponsored through a partnership between F&S and the Kappa Delta Sorority. Learn more about the work Crisis Nursery does at https://crisisnursery.net/.

All-Employee Expo Next Week
Come out to the State Farm Center next Thursday, October 23, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. for the biennial celebration for university employees. Engage with campus departments, services, and resources, as well as trusted vendors. F&S will be represented at the following booths (floor location noted in parentheses): Machine Shop and Locksmiths (106) Building Maintenance (Paint/Sign Shop and Ironworkers) (122) Utilities & Energy Services (124) Transportation Demand Management (126) Safety & Compliance Research Safety (134) Safety & Compliance and Sustainability (138) Transportation & Building Services (139) Mill Shop (229) You can also find reps from Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (114), Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD; 137), the Secretary of State (140), the U of I Community Credit Union (203), EyeMed (206), Aetna (209), Delta Dental of Illinois (214), State Universities Retirement System (SURS; 221), University of Illinois Extension (233), and many other groups; a flu shot clinic; a portrait station for professional photos (123); a place to donate blood (across from booth 134); and more! Guided tours of State Farm Center will also be available. Learn more, see the floor map and vendor layout, and find other details at https://humanresources.illinois.edu/all-employee-expo/. Attending the All-Employee Expo is an approved event under Policy and Rules for Civil Service Staff, Rule 11.12. Employees may be released up to two hours from work to attend the All-Employee Expo, operations permitting, and subject to prior supervisor approval. For hourly employees, any time spent at an approved event over two hours must be taken as leave time. Please use work order {XX-9999}, phase 004 to report this time.

“Being Good Ancestors Starts Right Now”
Chancellor Charles L. Isbell, Jr. recently outlined his philosophy in an Elsevier Connect* article. He explains his perspective on the “higher education crisis,” outlines the university’s responsibility as a “public good,” and suggests ways to engage with stakeholders. He then offers his thoughts on a path forward. It is a short but interesting read. Get to know the chancellor through his own words via the article, “Being Good Ancestors Starts Right Now.” It is available online at https://www.elsevier.com/connect/being-good-ancestors. *Elsevier is a global leader in advanced information and decision support for science and healthcare. Elsevier Connect publishes news, information, and features for the research, health, and technology communities.

Upcoming Conferences, Programs, and Webinars
Illinois Supervisory Skills Program—begins Thursday, January 15—New or recently appointed supervisors at F&S are invited to apply to participate in the 2026 Illinois Supervisory Skills Program, a semester-long course split over seven sessions (a mix of Zoom and in-person). The program helps “develop self-awareness of management styles and personal biases, practice strategies for resolving conflict, and build confidence in leading others through performance feedback and coaching techniques.” Learn more or apply (by October 27) at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/1545918359.
CampusEnergy2026—February 17 to 20, 2026—The International District Energy Association (IDEA) is hosting this conference in Washington, DC. Receive an early registration discount if you sign up by November 12. Learn more or register at https://www.districtenergy.org/campusenergy2026/registration.
Professional Staff Leadership Academy—begins 2026—This University of Illinois System program is designed to create opportunities for emerging leaders. Topics include university organization, university operations, external relations, leadership and academic theory, management, and professional development. Participants will attend four conference sessions (April, June, September, and November) and receive coaching. Learn more or apply (by October 29) at https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/employeedevelopment/PSLA.
Earthquake Preparedness
Yesterday was the Great ShakeOut, which was a national event to encourage people to practice earthquake safety. In the event of an earthquake, you should Drop: Stop where you are and drop to your hands and knees. Cover: Cover your head and neck with your arm and one hand; crawl under a sturdy piece of furniture (such as a table or desk) or, if that is not possible, to an interior wall. In the latter case, continue to cover your head and neck with your arm and hand. Hold On: Grab onto something sturdy; be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts. Wait until the shaking stops before getting up. People who use walkers or wheelchairs should follow a modified practice to Lock: Lock your wheels if applicable. Cover: Get as low as possible in your device; bend over and cover your head and neck with your arms, a pillow, a sturdy book, or something similar. Hold On: Wait until the shaking stops before moving. Get more information about this practice at https://www.shakeout.org/dropcoverholdon/. But wait, you say, we’re in the Midwest not on the West Coast! Illinois is actually on two major seismic zones: the Wabash Valley Seismic Zone and the New Madrid Seismic Zone. Although rare, these areas are at risk for magnitude 6.0 or greater earthquakes. The State of Illinois also has an information sheet on the risks, as well as how to prepare before, what to do during, and how to respond after an earthquake at https://iemaohs.illinois.gov/preparedness/earthquake.html.

Zipcar “Students with Drive”
Zipcar, a car-sharing service that operates on campus, is searching for “Students With Drive.” Let Zipcar know how they’re driving societal change on campus and in their community through their mission. Submit your entry TODAY. From the entries received nationwide, five finalists will be selected by the university-affiliated organization Zipcar; each will win $300 in driving credit and a $500 gift card to help make a feature video. In the last stage of the campaign, the finalist videos will go live for a public vote. The winning group will earn the $11,000 grand prize ($5K scholarship, $5K group donation, and $1K driving credit). Learn more at https://fs.illinois.edu/News/zipcar-wants-to-find-students-with-drive/.

Reminder: Campus is 100 Percent Smoke- and Tobacco-Free
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign bans all types of smoking (including e-cigarettes, also known as vapes or Juuls) and all non-smoking forms of tobacco (including chew, orbs, and strips). These policies apply to everyone on campus property—whether inside or outside, including within the perimeter fencing at PPSB—at all times. To read more about the policy, visit https://tobaccofree.illinois.edu/. If you are interested in support or additional resources to quit, contact Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services wellbeing@illinois.edu, 217-265-9355.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
Upcoming Training Opportunities
Upcoming F&S training sessions include the following: Data-Driven Insights to Sustainable Transformation—University of Central Florida’s Campus Space Reimagined: Thursday, October 23, at noon, online. Fostering a Culture of Feedback: Thursday, November 13, at 10 a.m., Stores & Receiving conference room 1A.
New Team Member Orientation
If you supervise team members, your cooperation in ensuring they attend New Team Member Orientation is appreciated. Sessions are held in person twice a month in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. The next orientation is Monday, October 27, at 8 a.m.
Learn More
Find information about these and other opportunities at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. F&S Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Professional Development Series
Illinois Human Resources and the Office of the Chief Information Officer are offering a series promoting responsible AI use; the series has two tracks: one for employees and one for supervisors and managers. Sign up for in-person or online sessions. The employee series covers such topics as “Getting Started with AI. What’s All the Hype?,” “Safe Experimentation with AI,” and “AI in My Workday.” The leadership series includes “AI Fluency for Today’s Leaders,” “Responsible AI Leadership, and “Upskilling for an AI-Ready Workforce.” See all titles or sign up at https://humanresources.illinois.edu/ai-professional-development-series/. Some sessions may already be full, but team members are encouraged to add their names to any waitlist as additional times may be added.
Flu Clinics
Flu shots are now available on campus and in the community. Visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information for information about obtaining the shot on campus. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/ for a roundup of availability at local clinics (e.g., Carle, Christie) and pharmacies.
When Must You Report a Significant Injury that Occurred on Campus?
Some injuries must be immediately reported to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). These include hospitalizations, amputations, and fatalities. Go to https://fs.illinois.edu/employee-safety-and-health/ and click the Injury Management tab to learn more about which injuries require reporting and how to do so. For questions, contact oshs@illinois.edu, 217-265-9828.
Annual Ethics Training Window Is Open
All team members must participate in annual ethics training. To complete this requirement, go to https://lms.apps.uillinois.edu. The training is expected to take no more than an hour, but it must be finished by 5 p.m. CDT on October 31. For step-by-step login instructions, see the email from the University Ethics and Compliance Office at https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/81/689393381.html.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community Game Night Social—In the mood for a game night? Head over to the Phillips Recreation Center (505 W. Stoughton, Urbana) tonight (October 17) between 6 and 8 p.m., for a fun evening of card or board games, trivia, and even video games. All ages are welcome. Come make new friends! More details are available at https://www.urbanaparks.org/news/come-out-to-the-game-night-social-on-october-17.
Genome Day—The Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology is hosting this fun day of hands-on science. The activities, such as extracting strawberry DNA to make necklaces, are aimed at K-12 students, but people of all ages are invited to try them and enjoy the exhibits. The event is at the Lincoln Square Mall (201 Lincoln Square, Urbana), Saturday, October 18, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Learn more at https://www.igb.illinois.edu/wheeler/igb-calendar/genome-day-2025-2.
Diwali on the Quad—Join the biggest campus Diwali (Hindu festival of lights) celebration in the United States on Saturday, October 18, at 5 p.m., on the Main Quad, hosted by the Indian Graduate Students Association and the Asian American Cultural Center. You can enjoy Indian food and culture, artistic performances, henna art, a photo booth, and more at this event, which is open to all! For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1150805260460539&set=ecnf.100065932262580.
Fright Night at Prairie Farm—Join the spooktacular fun at Prairie Farm (2202 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign) on Saturday, October 18, from 5 to 10 p.m. Enjoy hayrack rides, pumpkin decorating, s’mores around the bonfire, a costume contest, and more. There will also be an outdoor screening of Hotel Transylvania. Visit https://champaignparks.org/event/fright-night-at-prairie-farm/ for additional information.
Stoplight Town—St. Joseph Ogden Drama (301 N. Main St., St. Joseph) is putting on their fall production about small-town life on Saturday, October 18, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, October 19, at 2 p.m. Visit https://www.facebook.com/events/1053345653395616/ for more information.
Chez Veterans Day Community Lunch—The Chez Veterans Center (908 W. Nevada, Urbana) is hosting a lunch to celebrate veterans on Tuesday, November 11, between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Illinois alumnus Major General (Ret.) James H. Mukoyama, Jr., will offer remarks. Sign up at https://airtable.com/appYROLwiKRygGHvH/pag0AD5r6v5ymiurR/form. Save the Date October 22—Noontime Knowledge October 23—All-Employee Expo November 11—Veterans Day November 15—Tailgate Recycling at the Illini vs. Maryland Game Through November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

October 10, 2025

Click here to see this online
Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)
Phishing Scams
Earlier this month, F&S reported that phishing emails are circulating at the U. of I., noting that one about updating your Microsoft 365 account has been particularly ubiquitous. (Review that email here: https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/35/573885535.html.) The Illinois Department of Revenue (IDOR) is also warning taxpayers about a nationwide text message scam. The message appears to come from state revenue or treasury agencies and fraudulently claims that there is a tax refund that can only be processed if you provide or verify personal banking information. IDOR does NOT ask for banking or personal information in text messages or via other social media; its primary methods of communication are through the USPS or MyTaxIllinois. If in doubt, contact IDOR directly at https://tax.illinois.gov/ or by calling 1-800-732-8866. See the full press release at https://tax.illinois.gov/research/news/new-text-scam-soliciting-banking-information.html.
Noontime Knowledge Special Event
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to an LGBTQ+ history and culture tour of the Spurlock Museum (600 S. Gregory St., Urbana; meet at the entrance) on Wednesday, October 22, between noon and 1 p.m., in celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month. This in-person event will explore some of the LGBTQ+ objects in the museum’s collection, which come from Champaign-Urbana and around the world. Learn more about the museum and its many exhibits at https://www.spurlock.illinois.edu. Please RSVP to Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905, by October 21, if you’d like to attend, so a head count can be given to the museum.
CCFD Updates
Abbott Power Plant Charity Lunch for Crisis Nursery
Join a delicious tradition at F&S by ordering a pork sandwich in support of Crisis Nursery, which provides emergency-based childcare to Champaign County, 24/7/365. The annual lunch will take place on Thursday, November 13. Dine in or pick up your meal (pork chop sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, and a cookie) between 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., at the Abbott North Trailer (1117 S. Oak St., Champaign). Delivery is also available; to do this, please include your name, campus address, and room/office number with your RSVP email. To reserve your lunch, email Robin Royer rroyer@illinois.edu by November 11. Although a donation of $30 is suggested, all contributions are greatly appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Crisis Nursery. This lunch is sponsored through a partnership between F&S and the Kappa Delta Sorority. Learn more about the work Crisis Nursery does at https://crisisnursery.net/.
Make a One-Time Donation
What if you want to make a donation to a CCFD charity, but you can’t or prefer not to use payroll deduction to do that? You can make a donation using the one-time gift pledge form! You can choose to donate to one of the umbrella agencies. Many of these will then also let you designate a specific charity, for example, the largest umbrella agency “America’s Best Charities” has 223 specific charities under their group, including 4-H, ASPCA, Greenpeace, Habitat for Humanity, Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, Paws 4 Vets, Rainforest Trust, Toys for Tots, Trevor Project, and Water.org. To donate in this manner, Go to https://ccfd.illinois.edu/give/. Toggle the Check header. Click on “one-time gift pledge form” in the first sentence to open the PDF. Fill out the form. Write a check to the umbrella agency (do not make the check payable to CCFD). Mail (USPS or Campus Mail) the form and the check to
Campus Charitable Fund Drive
Office of the Chancellor
501 Swanlund Admin Bldg, MC 304
601 E. John St.
Champaign, IL 61820-5711 To search the agencies, visit https://ccfd.illinois.edu/search-agencies/ and type the name or a category (e.g., dog, children, nature, etc.) into the search bar. Try different synonyms (e.g., pets, kids) if you don’t find what you are looking for on the first search. Together, we make change.

You are invited to participate in a unique training event that is available over four half-day sessions for the first time! It will help you unlock the power of effective dialogue and set you on the path to becoming an even more influential communicator. Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue will take place on October 21, 23, 28, and 30 in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 8:30 a.m. to noon each of the four days. Breakfast will be provided.

The training will feature instructor-led sessions with real-time practice and coaching scenarios to help you be better prepared to share your concerns and speak up about workplace issues. Those who attend will enhance their communication skills and transform their interpersonal interactions by discovering how to navigate difficult conversations confidently to achieve positive outcomes. Participants will also learn how to develop skills to communicate effectively during high-stakes situations, listen actively and speak persuasively, and build stronger relationships and foster a collaborative environment.

Supervisor approval should be obtained prior to registration. Space is limited and will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested team members are encouraged to sign up by Monday, October 13. Click this link to register: https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/619689723.

For more information or questions, please contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training and development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu.

COVID Vaccines
The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has issued guidance for the fall respiratory virus season. They are recommending the COVID vaccine for most adults 18 years and older. (See the full press release at https://dph.illinois.gov/resource-center/news/2025/september/release-20250923.html for links to the PDF of the statewide standing order that lists the exceptions for adults and the full recommendations for children from birth through 17.) The standing order allows residents of Illinois to have access to the COVID-19 vaccine at pharmacies and in other clinical settings. The IDPH also said that “federal insurance programs, fully insured plans subject to the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and state-regulated insurance programs will cover COVID-19 shots.” Central Management Services, which manages insurance benefits for university employees, also recently stated that COVID vaccines for State of Illinois employees and retirees “are covered at 100% through your doctor or network pharmacy.” You will need to show your health plan card or your CVS Caremark prescription card. If you wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, you should note that flu shot clinics for State of Illinois employees and retirees (e.g., McKinley’s campus clinics) do not provide the shot. Please contact your doctor’s office or a pharmacy to schedule an appointment.

Upcoming Conferences, Programs, and Webinars
Ensuring Electrical System Reliability and Safety in Facilities Operations—Wednesday, October 15, noon—This webinar, sponsored by CDM Smith, “will show how proper electrical testing, preventive maintenance, and power system modeling ensure equipment works as designed and critical systems trip when they should.” Learn more or register at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/8817597570276/WN_ERiDAguoS8WEeL-R1LqgQg#/registration.
2025 National Weather Service Annual Winter Partners Webinar—Thursday, October 16, noon—The presentation will include “a brief overview of the Climate Prediction Center’s 2025 Winter Outlook,” as well as a question and answer period. Learn more or register at https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7264827817362028635.
2025 Illinois Green Infrastructure & Erosion Control Conference—Tuesday, October 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center, Champaign—Topics for this free conference include “Stormwater Management in a changing Climate,” “Beavers, the Original Ecological Engineer: What Can North America’s Largest Rodent Teach Us about Restoration?” and “From Soil to Supper Plate.” Learn more or register (by October 14) at https://www.ccstormwater.org/2025-conference.html.
Illinois Supervisory Skills Program—begins Thursday, January 15—New or recently appointed supervisors at F&S are invited to apply to participate in the 2026 Illinois Supervisory Skills Program, a semester-long course split over seven sessions (a mix of Zoom and in-person). The program helps “develop self-awareness of management styles and personal biases, practice strategies for resolving conflict, and build confidence in leading others through performance feedback and coaching techniques.” Learn more or apply (by October 27) at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/1545918359.
CampusEnergy2026—February 17 to 20, 2026—International District Energy Association (IDEA) is hosting this conference in Washington, DC. Receive an early registration discount if you sign up by November 12. Learn more or register at https://www.districtenergy.org/campusenergy2026/registration.
Professional Staff Leadership Academy—begins 2026—This University of Illinois System program is designed to create opportunities for emerging leaders. Topics include university organization, university operations, external relations, leadership and academic theory, management, and professional development. Participants will attend four conference sessions (April, June, September, and November) and receive coaching. Learn more or apply (by October 29) at https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/employeedevelopment/PSLA.
Fire Prevention Week
You may have seen recent local headlines about a trash fire that started in a garbage truck when a discarded lithium-ion battery caught fire (e.g., see https://www.wcia.com/news/champaign-county/champaign-firefighters-share-message-after-lithium-ion-battery-starts-fire/). Fortunately, that incident ended safely, but it was a timely reminder that lithium-ion batteries, the focus of this year’s National Fire Prevention Week campaign, need to be treated differently than regular household batteries. In general, when handled correctly, lithium-ion batteries are safe to use. Fires may occur if the battery is damaged; if this happens, the battery may short-circuit and enter a “thermal runaway state,” heating to the point of catching fire. Here are some tips for safe use and disposal: Safe Use Buy only safety-certified products (such as UL, ETL, or CSA). Only use the cord that came with the product to charge it. Charge your device on a hard surface. Do not overcharge! Unplug or remove the battery when it is full. Avoid charging lithium-ion batteries in your home when you cannot monitor the process, especially overnight when you are sleeping. If charging a bigger item, such as an electric bike, make sure it would not block any exits, in case a fire occurs. When traveling by plane, items with lithium-ion batteries (e.g., smartphones, tablets, cameras, etc.) must be completely powered off if placed in checked bags. These items, and any spare lithium-ion batteries (such as a portable phone recharger) must be in accessible carry-on bags if brought on the plane. Safe Disposal Never put old lithium-ion batteries in the garbage. For information on where to properly recycle these in Champaign, go to https://champaignil.gov/public-works/recycling/where-do-i-recycle-it/. For Urbana, visit https://www.urbanail.gov/public-works/page/battery-recycling-drop. For more information on safely using lithium-ion batteries, visit https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week. For details on safely flying with lithium-ion batteries, go to https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/lithium-batteries-baggage.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
Upcoming Training Opportunities
F&S training sessions in October include the following: Leading with Empathy and Compassion: Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m., in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. This is part of the Leadership Training Series. Data-Driven Insights to Sustainable Transformation—University of Central Florida’s Campus Space Reimagined: Thursday, October 23, at noon, online.
New Team Member Orientation
If you supervise team members, your cooperation in ensuring they attend New Team Member Orientation is appreciated. Sessions are held in person twice a month in Stores Conference Room 1A. The next orientation is on Monday, October 13, at 8 a.m. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
Data Survey Participation Requested
Deadline Extended! Each year, the campus requires units to complete a data survey to assess the usage and storage of sensitive data. To participate, go to https://forms.office.com/r/ipF63AWz1H. Please complete the survey by Friday, October 10. Contact Brad Trankina trankina@illinois.edu, 217-300-1384, in Information Technology Services with any questions.
Flu Clinics
Flu shots are now available on campus and in the community. Visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information for information about obtaining the shot on campus. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/ for a roundup of availability at local clinics (e.g., Carle, Christie) and pharmacies.
When Must You Report a Significant Injury that Occurred on Campus?
Some injuries must be immediately reported to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). These include hospitalizations, amputations, and fatalities. Go to https://fs.illinois.edu/employee-safety-and-health/ and click the Injury Management tab to learn more about which injuries require reporting and how to do so. For questions, contact oshs@illinois.edu, 217-265-9828.
Annual Ethics Training Window Is Open
All team members must participate in annual ethics training. To complete this requirement, go to https://lms.apps.uillinois.edu. The training is expected to take no more than an hour, but it must be finished by 5 p.m. CDT on October 31. For step-by-step login instructions, see the email from the University Ethics and Compliance Office at https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/81/689393381.html.
Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Fighting Illini Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Induction—Eleven new members will join the Illini Athletics Hall of Fame tonight (Friday, October 10). Inductees include former women’s basketball head coach Theresa Grentz, football players Kurt Kittner and Joe Rutgens, softball player Meredith Hackett Kindt, as well as others representing track & field, men’s basketball, swim & dive, and baseball. The nine living inductees are scheduled to attend the free ceremony at 7 p.m. at the State Farm Center (1800 S. First St., Champaign; doors open at 6:30 p.m.) Go to https://fightingillini.com/news/2025/10/7/fighting-illini-athletics-hall-of-fame-class-of-2025-induction-scheduled-for-friday-night-at-state-farm-center.aspx for inductee bios and more information.
Illini Dancesport Invitational—On Saturday, October 11, the university is hosting the 33rd annual competition with dance teams from across the Midwest. The morning session (8 a.m. to noon) features classic ballroom style, and the afternoon session (1 to 5 p.m.) showcases Latin dances. Cheer on wonderful ballroom dancers in Illini Union rooms ABC (1401 W. Green St., Urbana). Admission is free for U. of I. students and children 10 and under; all others pay $5. Learn more at https://publish.illinois.edu/illinidancesportinvitational/.
AMBUCS Scarecrow Festival—Enjoy hayrack rides, barrel train rides, kids’ games, live music, a car show, food, a craft market, and more on Saturday, October 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in AMBUCS Park (1200 E. University Ave., Urbana). Visit https://www.thegccambucs.org/ for more details.
Wicked & the Wiz—Answer the age-old question “Are you a good witch or a bad witch?” at a “spellbinding Halloween celebration for all ages.” Join the free fun on Saturday, October 11, between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., at the Douglass Community Center (512 E. Grove St., Champaign). Activities include a beauty bar, slime potion making station, cauldron toss, broom ball, and more. For more information, go to https://champaignparks.org/event/wicked-the-wiz/.
Dia de las Monarcas (Day of the Monarchs)—Learn about monarch butterfly conservation and the Monarch Tag and Release program at the Miller Park Zoo (1020 S. Morris Ave., Bloomington) on Saturday, October 11, between noon and 2 p.m. Enjoy the monarch program, music, crafts, and face painting with your zoo admission. Visit https://www.visitbn.org/events/dia-de-las-monarcas-day-of-the-monarchs-2/ for additional information.
University Of Illinois Black Chorus Annual Fall Concert—Dr. Ollie Watts Davis and Black Chorus present Thanksgiving, on Sunday, October 12, at 4 p.m., in Smith Recital Hall (805 S. Mathews, Urbana). The concert features sacred music of Black Americans and an invitation to sing along to the vintage favorites portion. Tickets are available at https://go.illinois.edu/BlackChorus.
Save the Date October 22—Noontime Knowledge October 23—All-Employee Expo November 11—Veterans Day November 15—Tailgate Recycling at the Illini vs. Maryland Game Through November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

October 3, 2025

Click here to see this online   Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update   F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)
You are invited to participate in a unique training event that is available over four half-day sessions for the first time! It will help you unlock the power of effective dialogue and set you on the path to becoming an even more influential communicator. Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue will take place on October 21, 23, 28, and 30 in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 8:30 a.m. to noon each of the four days. Breakfast will be provided.

The training will feature instructor-led sessions with real-time practice and coaching scenarios to help you be better prepared to share your concerns and speak up about workplace issues. Those who attend will enhance their communication skills and transform their interpersonal interactions by discovering how to navigate difficult conversations confidently to achieve positive outcomes. Participants will also learn how to develop skills to communicate effectively during high-stakes situations, listen actively and speak persuasively, and build stronger relationships and foster a collaborative environment.

Supervisor approval should be obtained prior to registration. Space is limited and will be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested team members are encouraged to sign up by Monday, October 13. Click this link to register: https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/619689723.

For more information or questions, please contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training and development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu.
CCFD Updates
Small Gifts. Big Impact.
People often wonder if a $2 monthly gift really makes a difference. The answer is an unequivocal YES! Just $2 a month can Help someone with intellectual or developmental disabilities live independently.Fill a child’s backpack with school supplies so they feel ready to learn on their first day.Provide a dignity kit with hygiene essentials for a woman in a refugee camp.Train a hearing dog for someone who is deaf or hard of hearing.These are just a few examples of how a small donation can be a huge help to others. Get involved at https://ccfd.illinois.edu/give/.
Abbott Power Plant Charity Lunch
Join a delicious tradition at F&S by ordering a pork sandwich in support of Crisis Nursery. The annual lunch will take place on Thursday, November 13. Dine in or pick up your meal (pork chop sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, and a cookie) between 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., at the Abbott North Trailer (1117 S. Oak St., Champaign). Delivery is also available; to do this, please include your name, campus address, and room/office number with your RSVP email. To reserve your lunch, email Robin Royer rroyer@illinois.edu by November 11. Although a donation of $30 is suggested, all contributions are greatly appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Crisis Nursery. This lunch is sponsored through a partnership between F&S and the Kappa Delta Sorority. Learn more about the work Crisis Nursery does to provide emergency-based childcare to Champaign County, 24/7/365, at https://crisisnursery.net/.
More Charities to Consider from the Recent CCFD Agency Fair
Courage Connection supports safe, healthy relationships through education and resources. They also offer domestic violence services to the local community, including a 24-hour emergency hotline for those needing help or those looking to help a friend or family member experiencing domestic violence. The hotline is available at 217-384-4390 or toll-free at 877-384-4390. Learn more at https://courageconnection.org/.

DSC (Developmental Services Center) offers comprehensive services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Champaign and Ford counties. This may take the form of day services, residential services, employment programs, individual and family support, and more. DSC’s program are currently assisting 1,200 participants. Visit https://www.dsc-illinois.org/ for more information.

Prairie Rivers Network aims to protect water, heal land, and inspire change. Recent projects include ongoing advocacy to protect Illinois wetlands, monitor water quality, and regulate coal ash. Last year, they released the results of a six-year study on herbicide drift and its impact on untargeted trees and plants. Learn about these projects and other work Prairie Rivers Network is doing at https://prairierivers.org/.
Did you know that food insecurity affects people (students and university employees alike) on campus?
Wesley Food Pantry can help. They open their public food pantry at Wesley United Methodist Church (1203 W. Green St., Urbana) every Thursday, from 5 to 7 p.m. They have additional weekly hours just for U. of I. students and have a Parkland location for that part of the community as well. Find out more about the pantry or explore how to volunteer at https://wesleypantry.org.You can choose to support one of these or pick one of the other 700+ organizations. To find a charity, visit https://ccfd.illinois.edu/search-agencies/ and type the name or a category (e.g., dog, children, nature, etc.) into the search bar. Try different synonyms (e.g., pets, kids) if you don’t find what you are looking for on the first search. Together, we make change.
When Must You Report a Significant Injury that Occurred on Campus?
Some injuries must be immediately reported to the Illinois Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IL OSHA). These include hospitalizations, amputations, and fatalities. Go to https://fs.illinois.edu/employee-safety-and-health/ and click the Injury Management tab to learn more about which injuries require reporting and how to do so. You can also download a printable poster with this information. This document should be placed in locations where other important employee information is displayed. For questions, contact oshs@illinois.edu, 217-265-9828.
Windows 11 Automated Updates
Beginning Monday, October 6, F&S Information Technology Services (ITS) will start automated overnight upgrades to Windows 11. This initiative prepares F&S for Microsoft’s end of support for Windows 10 in late 2025, ensuring systems remain secure and reliable. If your machine is selected for this upgrade, you’ll receive a notice of the timing for your machine. Most upgrades will occur overnight and take up to four hours; please leave your computer powered on and close all applications before you leave work.After your machine upgrades, you may notice a slightly changed interface (start menu centered, updated icons, etc.), and Windows might perform some background configuration tasks—especially during the first login. Your files, applications, and settings should carry over automatically, but you may want to explore Windows 11’s “Tips” or “Get Started” features for a quick orientation. If you run into any issues or need help adjusting, you can reach ITS via supportdesk.fs.illinois.edu.
Noontime Knowledge Special Event
The Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to an LGBTQ+ history and culture tour of the Spurlock Museum (600 S. Gregory St., Urbana) on Wednesday, October 22, between noon and 1 p.m., in celebration of LGBTQ+ History Month. This in-person event will explore some of the LGBTQ+ objects in the museum’s collection (they have more than 50,000 overall, including LGBTQ+ items!), which come from Champaign-Urbana and around the world. Learn more about the museum and its many exhibits at https://www.spurlock.illinois.edu. Please RSVP to Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905, by October 21, if you’d like to attend, so a head count can be given to the museum.
Illinois Supervisory Skills Program
New or recently appointed supervisors at F&S are invited to apply to participate in the 2026 Illinois Supervisory Skills Program. The program helps “develop self-awareness of management styles and personal biases, practice strategies for resolving conflict, and build confidence in leading others through performance feedback and coaching techniques.” This is a semester-long course split over seven sessions (a mix of Zoom and in-person), beginning Thursday, January 15.  Learn more about the program or apply at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/1545918359. Applications must be submitted by Monday, October 27. This program is only available to employees with at least a 75%-time appointment. A one-time fee of $250 is required for those selected to participate.
Fall Yard Waste CollectionsChampaign
The city of Champaign is divided into two zones (Orange or Blue) and then further divided into numbered areas (1 to 5). Each area has four pickup dates this fall. Blue 1, for example, has its collection on Mondays, beginning October 13 and continuing every other Monday through December 1. Orange 5 (Fridays) has the latest collection: it begins October 24 and pickup is every other Friday through December 12. To see a map of the zones and a list of the collection dates, visit https://champaignil.gov/2025/09/08/city-announces-fall-yard-waste-collection-dates/. Leaves and other yard material must be at the curb by 6 a.m. It needs to be in paper yard waste bags, or small branches may be bundled with non-metallic twine.
Mahomet
Limb and brush collection is October 6 through 10 and December 1 through 5. Leaf collection begins Monday, October 20, and continues through Wednesday, November 26. There is no pickup on Veterans Day (November 11). Mahomet is also divided into zones, but all zones must have their yard waste within three feet of the curb or street edge prior to 7 a.m. Monday mornings but not more than 7 days prior to pickup. They will not collect bound bundles of brush or limbs and the maximum size of the brush pile is 8 feet x 5 feet x 4 feet. To download the PDF denoting acceptable materials, the schedule, and a map, visit https://www.mahomet-il.gov/documents/residents/landscape-waste-collection-program/573669.
Rantoul
Rantoul will collect brush between October 6 and 10 and again between December 1 and 5. Fall leaf pickup alternates weeks between those north of US 136 (first pickup the week of October 27 to 31) and those south of US 136 (first pickup the week of November 3 to 7). Pickup continues in this manner through December 12. During the last week of pickup (December 15 to 19), both zones will be serviced. Learn more at https://www.myrantoul.com/349/Leaf-Brush-Removal.
Savoy
At this time, Savoy does not provide yard waste recycling. Residents can utilize the Landscape Recycling Center, (1210 E. University Avenue, Urbana). Fees apply, with a minimum of $5.25 charged for one to six bags. For more details, go to https://www.landscaperecyclingcenter.org/disposal.
St. Joseph
Brush and leaf pickup occurs during the first full week of each month. Go to https://stjosephillinois.org/index.asp?SEC=4D67733B-70B0-4BE5-8B1F-02AD38592040 to download PDFs of the guideline pages for both.
Tolono
Brush pickup is the first and third Mondays of the month, ending with the November 17 pickup. The leaf vacuum will operate without a set schedule in the month of November. ONLY leaves are acceptable. Do not mix in sticks or landscape waste (e.g., pumpkins and potted plants) in with the leaves. Visit https://www.tolonoil.us/events/event/village-of-tolono-brush-pick-up/ for more information.
Urbana
Fall leaf collection occurs on your U-Cycle day in the weeks of November 3 to 7, November 17 to 21, and December 1 to 5. Leaves and non-woody plant material should be placed curbside in paper lawn and garden bags before 5 a.m. Urbana will not collect branches or brush in this collection, but these materials may be taken to the Urbana Landscape Recycling Center (1210 E. University Avenue) for a fee. Learn more at https://www.urbanail.gov/public-works/page/fall-2025-leaf-collection-dates.
Annual Ethics Training Window Is Open
All team members must participate in annual ethics training. To complete this requirement, go to https://lms.apps.uillinois.edu. The training is expected to take no more than an hour, but it must be finished by 5 p.m. CDT on October 31. Any team member failing to do so will be considered noncompliant and “subject to corrective action in accordance with established policies and procedures.” Please be sure to set aside time to accomplish this important task. For step-by-step login instructions, see the email from the University Ethics and Compliance Office at https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/81/689393381.html.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
Upcoming Training Opportunities
F&S training sessions in October include the following:Transforming Higher Education—Practical Applications for Modern Technology and AI in Campus Maintenance: Thursday, October 9, at noon, online.Leading with Empathy and Compassion: Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m., in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. This is part of the Leadership Training Series. Data-Driven Insights to Sustainable Transformation—University of Central Florida’s Campus Space Reimagined:Thursday, October 23, at noon, online. A training session on the Grievance Process will also be offered on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
Data Survey Participation Requested
Each year, the campus requires units to complete a data survey to assess the usage and storage of sensitive data. To participate, go to https://forms.office.com/r/ipF63AWz1H. Please complete the survey by Friday, October 3. Contact Brad Trankina trankina@illinois.edu, 217-300-1384 in Information Technology Services with any questions.
Flu Clinics
Flu shots are now available on campus and in the community. Visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information for information about obtaining the shot on campus. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/ for a roundup of availability at local clinics (e.g., Carle, Christie) and pharmacies.
Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
“Meadowbrook: A History” Walking Tour—Local author Roger Digges will discuss the history of Meadowbrook Park on a free, two-mile walk along the park’s paved paths. Meet at the Garden Pavilion (2808 S. Race St., Urbana) at 10 a.m., Saturday, October 4. To participate (recommended for ages 10+), please sign up at https://www.urbanaparks.org/calendar/events/free-meadowbrook-park-walking-tour or by calling 217-367-1544 by 5 p.m. today.
Beckman STEM Crawl—Interactive activities for both kids and adults abound in downtown Champaign businesses this Saturday, October 4, between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The Beckman Institute is presenting more than a dozen exhibits that look at space, cancer research, insects, sight, sound, the liver, and other interesting topics. After the crawl, at 3 p.m., the Viginia Theatre (203 West Park Avenue, Champaign) and Illinois Public Media are presenting the documentary Observer, in which “filmmaker Ian Cheney embarks on an experiment in which he brings a series of keen-eyed observers—scientists, artists, a hunter—to a range of locations around the world, often without telling them where they are going, and asks them simply to describe what they see.” The first 200 STEM crawl participants will receive free movie tickets. Learn more at https://beckman.illinois.edu/outreach/beckman-stem-crawl.
Vet Med Open House—The free community favorite, Vet Med Open House, is this Sunday, October 5, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., at the College of Veterinary Medicine (2001 S. Lincoln Ave., Urbana). Demonstrations will be given by the farrier (horseshoeing) and service dogs. Exhibits will explore feline medicine, poisonous plants, birds, exotic animal pets, zoo medicine, teddy bear repair, the fitulated cow, diagnostics, and many other fun topics. Food will be available for purchase. For more details, or to download the Vet Med Open House program, visit https://vetmed.illinois.edu/veterinary-students/open-house10/.
Geo Power Hour—Interested in geothermal heating or cooling for your home or business? Geothermal Urbana-Champaign has a bulk purchasingprogram that makes it easier and more affordable. Learn more at the Geo Power Hour on Zoom, on Wednesday, October 8, at 6 p.m. Register to receive the Zoom information at https://www.urbanail.gov/public-works/page/geothermal-urbana-champaign.
Health Series from the Illinois Extension—The Illinois Extension is hosting a webinar series on Wednesdays at noon, between October 8 and November 12. Topics include Nutrition and Caregiving, Protecting Your Heart and Metabolism, Protein, Perceptions of Digital Health Technology, Healthy Mouth/Healthy Body, and How Your Environment Shapes Your Health. Learn more about each topic or register for one or more of the courses at https://registration.extension.illinois.edu/start/community-seminar-series-autumn-health-picks-2025-registration.

Active Transportation Plan Survey—The Champaign-Urbana Urban Area Transportation Study (CUUATS) needs your feedback on walking, biking, and rolling around the area. The survey is available in English, French, Spanish, and Mandarin Chinese. Take the anonymous survey at https://ccrpc.gitlab.io/cu-atp/. Please submit responses by October 20.

America Recycles Day at Boneyard Creek—Volunteers are needed to help pick up litter along Boneyard Creek on Saturday, October 25, between 9 and 11 a.m. A free pizza lunch will follow the cleanup. For more information or to sign up, visit https://champaignil.gov/public-works/recycling/america-recycles-day/.

Save the DateOctober 22—Noontime KnowledgeOctober 23—All-Employee ExpoNovember 11—Veterans DayNovember 15—Tailgate Recycling at the Illini vs. Maryland GameThrough November 12—Campus Charitable Fund DriveNovember 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

        Pats on the Back
Remember to give colleagues a Pat on the Back by sending an email to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu. Compliment a deserving team member and have your words posted at https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/pats-on-the-back/.

September 26, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

New INSIDER Stories
If you were asked to cover the pipes carrying hot water in the steam tunnels with a thin metal, would you choose white or gray material? Learn why that choice matters in the new Shop Spotlight: “Insulators Cover It All.” You’ll also learn why some rubber covers get hard and brittle and what insulators are doing about it. Another story discusses “Learning to Drive Right.” F&S offers a free, bus-driving orientation, where university employees can learn to drive the smaller passenger buses used to transport people or goods. Andy Ray, Transportation, gave a recent class and explained some of the rules of the road that drivers may never have needed to think about when driving a smaller vehicle, such as the amount of room needed to bring the bus to a stop, the numerous blind spots on a bigger vehicle, and how to make a “button hook” turn when turning right, which helps you avoid the curb. Readers will also learn how many parking spaces you should plan on if you need to park the bus. To read these INSIDER stories and more, visit https://fs.web.illinois.edu/Insider/.

CCFD Updates Review Your Payroll Deductions
If you are already donating to CCFD charities through payroll deductions, thank you! If you are happy with your current donation(s), you don’t need to do a thing! They will simply roll over and continue in 2026. If you would like to add charities or adjust the amount of your current donation to one or more, go to https://illinois.giving.stratuslive.com/Users/Account/LandingPageOption. Use your NetID and password to sign in. Then follow the prompts to modify an existing gift or start a new gift to another CCFD charity. If you would like to end your contribution to a particular charity, choose to modify your gift and enter 0 (zero) in the dollar amount. Abbott Power Plant Charity Lunch
Join a delicious tradition at F&S by ordering a pork sandwich in support of Crisis Nursery. The annual lunch will take place on Thursday, November 13. Dine in or pick up your meal (pork chop sandwich, potato salad, baked beans, and a cookie) between 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m., at the Abbott North Trailer (1117 S. Oak St., Champaign). Delivery is also available; to do this, please include your name, campus address, and room/office number with your RSVP email. To reserve your lunch, email Robin Royer at rroyer@illinois.edu by November 11. Although a donation of $30 is suggested, all contributions are greatly appreciated. Checks may be made payable to Crisis Nursery. This lunch is sponsored through a partnership between F&S and the Kappa Delta Sorority. Learn more about the work Crisis Nursery does to provide emergency-based childcare to Champaign County, 24/7/365, at https://crisisnursery.net/. More Charities to Consider from the Recent CCFD Agency Fair Daily Bread Soup Kitchen serves the hungry in the community, “regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity.” They offer a hot meal (soup, salad, entree, dessert, and beverages) to over 200 guests each day. Daily Bread Soup Kitchen is entirely volunteer-run, with no paid staff. To learn more or to volunteer, go to https://dailybreadsoupkitchen.com/. Habitat for Humanity (https://cuhabitat.org) provides housing help through home builds for qualified people and through general education. In October, they are offering a free webinar series, open to everyone considering a home purchase, not just through Habitat, called “Homebuying & Homeownership 101.” Topics include Understanding Credit, Getting a Mortgage Loan, Shopping for a Home, and Home Maintenance. Learn more about the series (Tuesdays and Thursdays between 6 and 8 p.m., October 7 through November 4) or register at https://cuhabitat.org/financial-education/. Illinois is the birthplace of the Special Olympics, and Special Olympics Illinois continues to support the “transformative power and joy of sport every day” for people with intellectual disabilities. They offer a sports play program for children aged two to seven, and those at least eight years of age can take part in the Special Olympics in 18 sports. Learn more at https://www.soill.org/.
The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has helped more than half a million minority students graduate from college since its inception in 1944. Currently, UNCF is supporting 50,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the nation. Your donation helps with supplies, textbooks, room and board, tuition, and other necessities. Find out more at https://uncf.org/. You can choose to support one of these or pick one of the other 700+ organizations. To find a charity, visit https://ccfd.illinois.edu/search-agencies/ and type the name or a category (e.g., dog, children, nature, etc.) into the search bar. Try different synonyms (e.g., pets, kids) if you don’t find what you are looking for on the first search.

HVAC Cleaning
Tomorrow, Saturday, September 27, sheetmetal workers will perform air handler cleaning and microbial fogging of ductwork at PPSB, between 6 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Team members in the affected areas should cover, put away, or remove any items that may be sensitive to a slight chlorine-based cleaner. The specific spaces undergoing this ventilation service were listed in an all-users email available here: https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/65/295650065.html. Please review the list if you will be on site during the work, as these areas must remain unoccupied while the cleaning takes place. For questions, contact the F&S Service Office fsserviceoffice@illinois.edu, 217-333-0340.

F&S Fall Blood Drive:
Now with Afternoon Hours!
If you’ve been wanting to donate blood at F&S, but prefer to wait until after you’ve had your lunch, now is your chance! There are still three time slots available for whole blood donation and four for double red cell. Walk-ins are also welcome, although those with an appointment will receive priority. The fall drive begins at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, September 30, and there are slots available until 3 p.m. Donate blood and receive an email voucher for a $20 gift card! Sign up at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive or by contacting Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. Now, your donation can count doubly. Register your donation at the F&S drive (Text DONATE to 222688 (ABBOTT) or go to https://bigten.org/abbott/) and earn a limited-edition Homefield vintage Illini T-shirt while helping the U. of I. in a friendly competition with the other Big Ten schools. The university whose supporters donate the most blood during the competition (ending December 5) will win $1 million to use toward health initiatives. The U. of I. is currently in sixth place. You can also check the standings at the link. Blood donation is always an approved activity with prior supervisory approval. Team members may charge up to one hour to work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations.

PPSB Flyer and Sign Policy
If you’d like to advertise an event around F&S, it is possible to hang signs, flyers, or announcements (hereafter referred to collectively as signs) around the common areas of PPSB, with a few caveats: Customer Relations & Communications (CRC) must approve the signs in advance. Signs may only be posted in the PPSB lobby (including the area between the glass doors) if they are pertinent to both external and internal customers. You must hang your signs with a removable adhesive, such as mounting putty. Do NOT use Scotch tape. It damages the walls. Signs may remain up for two weeks. You must remove your signs at the end of the two-week period. Items posted on bulletin boards (e.g., shop boards) are exempt from this policy, but may be subject to different rules. To have your sign approved for hanging, download and submit the CRC Project Request Form from ERIN. You may also download the complete PPSB Signage Policy from the same location: https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/resources-forms-policies/. Questions about the signage policy may be directed to Malikah Gordon, director of CRC, magordon@illinois.edu, 217-333-2918.

Spill Containment Exercise
F&S, the Division of Public Safety, and the Champaign Fire Department will conduct a spill containment exercise on Tuesday, September 30. The drill will occur between 8 and 10 a.m., beginning with a simulated call to 911. During the exercise, dye will be placed in the storm drains around the National Petascale Computing Facility, near the intersection of South Oak Street and St. Mary’s Road. The dye will then travel to the south along storm sewers and open channels connected to the Embarras River. Multiple response vehicles will track this activity across this part of the campus; the team will also set up a mobile command center.

The exercise is required annually by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and satisfies Abbott Power Plant’s Facility Response Plan requirements. For questions, please contact Compliance Professional Bill Walsh, 217-300-7707.

Illinois Supervisory Skills Program
New or recently appointed supervisors at F&S are invited to apply to participate in the 2026 Illinois Supervisory Skills Program. The program helps “develop self-awareness of management styles and personal biases, practice strategies for resolving conflict, and build confidence in leading others through performance feedback and coaching techniques.” This is a semester-long course split over seven sessions (a mix of Zoom and in-person), beginning Thursday, January 15. Learn more about the program or apply at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/1545918359. Applications must be submitted by Monday, October 27. This program is only available to employees with at least a 75%-time appointment. A one-time fee of $250 is required for those selected to participate.

Annual Ethics Training Window Opens Next Week
Team Members should receive an email on Wednesday, October 1, from the University of Illinois System’s chief ethics and compliance officer. The email will have the training link and instructions for how to complete this required annual training. The training is expected to take no more than an hour, but it must be finished by October 31. Any team member failing to do so will be considered noncompliant and “subject to corrective action in accordance with established policies and procedures.” Please be sure to set aside time in October to accomplish this important task.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: Upcoming Training Opportunities
F&S training sessions in October include the following: Transforming Higher Education—Practical Applications for Modern Technology and AI in Campus Maintenance: Thursday, October 9, at noon, online. Leading with Empathy and Compassion: Thursday, October 16, at 10 a.m., in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. Data-Driven Insights to Sustainable Transformation—UCF’s Campus Space Reimagined: Thursday, October 23, at noon, online. A training session on the Grievance Process will also be offered on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue
If you’ve been interested in this program that helps you become a more effective communicator, but haven’t been able to make the full days fit into your schedule, there’s a new opportunity. Four half-day sessions will be offered in October (Tuesdays, October 21 and 28, and Thursdays, October 23 and 30), from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Continental breakfast will be provided each day. Click this link to register. Registration closes on Tuesday, October 14. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
Data Survey Participation Requested
Each year, the campus requires units to complete a data survey to assess the usage and storage of sensitive data. To participate, go to https://forms.office.com/r/ipF63AWz1H. Please complete the survey by Friday, October 3. Contact Brad Trankina trankina@illinois.edu, 217-300-1384 in Information Technology Services with any questions.
Flu Clinics
Flu shots are now available on campus and in the community. Visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information for information about obtaining the shot on campus. Visit https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/ for a roundup of availability at local clinics (e.g., Carle, Christie) and pharmacies.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community

Touch-a-Truck Day—The Champaign Park District is hosting this free, fun event. Explore fire trucks, police cars, tow trucks, and more at Centennial Park (2200 W. Kirby Ave., Champaign), on Saturday, September 27, between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The first hour will be sensory-friendly with no flashing lights, sirens, or horns. Other activities include inflatables, face painting, bubbles, and food vendors. Go to https://champaignparks.org/event/touch-a-truck/ for more details.
Marching Illini in Concert—Homecoming Week concludes with a rousing concert from the Marching Illini at the State Farm Center (1800 S. First St., Champaign), on Sunday, September 28, at 3 p.m. (doors open at 2). Enjoy traditional favorites, selections from the current season, and other crowd-pleasing tunes. Visit https://music.illinois.edu/about-us/events/live-again-marching-illini-in-concert/ for more information or to buy tickets.
The Transnational History of Sesame Street—Fans of the show Sesame Street can attend a discussion with author Helle Strandgaard Jensen, who will discuss her book Sesame Street: A Transnational History, which looks at Sesame Street in multiple countries and examines its reception, different approaches to childhood and preschool education, and more. The talk will take place at the Center for Children’s Books (Room 212; School of Information Sciences, 501 E. Daniel St., Champaign), on Wednesday, October 1, at noon. Learn more at https://ischool.illinois.edu/news-events/events/2025/10/01/transnational-history-sesame-street.
McKechnie Family LIFE Home Open House—See the latest developments at the university’s smart home, where researchers are innovating solutions for everyday living for people of all ages and abilities. The open house is Tuesday, October 7, from 2 to 5. Please RSVP at https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/79210072, so they know how many people to expect. Learn more at https://lifehome.ahs.illinois.edu/.
Reindeer Games Corn Maze Now Open—Fall is the perfect time to take the family out to a corn maze, and the one at Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch (1356 County Rd. 2900 N., Rantoul) covers a full 10 acres in a design that depicts Santa’s sleigh. There are eight checkpoints in the maze, which you can do during daylight hours or up the challenge by completing it after dark with a flashlight to guide you. Hardy’s also offers reindeer tours, pedal race cars, concessions on weekends, and more. Visit https://www.reindeerranch.com/maze.html for details. Save the Date Through September 27—Illinois Homecoming September 30—F&S Fall Blood Drive October 22—Noontime Knowledge October 23—All-Employee Expo November 11—Veterans Day Through November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

September 19, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)
New Dispatch Available
The latest issue of the Dispatch is now available for your reading pleasure, featuring A look at some F&S summer projects Photos from the Team Member Appreciation Picnic A report on the Rainwater Management Program Recaps on two Noontime Knowledge events: one focused on Disability Pride and one exploring resources from Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services that are available to university employees View these and other stories at https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/dispatch/ or look for copies around F&S. A digital version will also be available on the large West Hallway screen. We’d love to feature your work! Tell us about your latest project or achievement. Photos are also gladly accepted. Customer Relations & Communications will include as many stories and images as possible (suggestions needed by October 10 for the next edition). Email suggestions to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu.
CCFD Updates Campaign Launch
The Campus Charitable Fund Drive (CCFD) kicked off this week. To get things going, CCFD hosted an Agency Fund Drive with approximately two dozen charities represented. Most of these were local, and each had information about the work they do. Here’s a small sampling: Champaign County Humane Society advocates for our furry pet friends through adoption, welfare, and advancing ideas that help them. In the spring Paw Prints (their magazine), for example, they laid out the pros and cons of a proposed bill in Illinois that would make changes limiting the allowable pet fees landlords can charge renters. https://www.cuhumane.org/ Feeding Our Kids provides “nourishing meals to food insecure school children on weekends and school holidays.” Their brochure explains that 1 in 6 children experience food insecurity in Champaign County. It also notes that a $150 donation feeds a child for the entire school year. https://feedingourkids.org Grand Prairie Friends is a volunteer-driven conservation organization and land trust. Their mission is “to preserve and restore natural communities in east-central Illinois,” as well as promoting “an understanding and appreciation of natural resources.” They offer volunteer opportunities at the eight natural areas they manage. These areas are open to the public, and the Warbler Ridge site is particularly popular for hiking, with more than 11 miles of trails. https://www.grandprairiefriends.org/ RACES (Rape Advocacy, Counseling & Education Services) is a “community-based rape crisis center serving east-central Illinois.” They offer “free, confidential services to anyone who has been affected by sexual assault, abuse or harassment.” They also support a 24/7/365 crisis hotline available at 217-384-4444 (Toll Free: 1-877-236-3727). https://www.cu-races.org/
Uniting Pride (UP) offers social and support groups, a food pantry, education and training, a clothing closet, and more. They also sponsor the Champaign-Urbana Pride Fest (October 18 to 26 this year), which features the Pride Parade, fair, youth and family programs, and more. https://www.unitingpride.org/ You can choose to support one of these or pick one of the other 700+ organizations. To find a charity, visit https://ccfd.illinois.edu/search-agencies/ and type the name or a category (e.g., dog, children, nature, etc.) into the search bar. Try different synonyms (e.g., pets, kids) if you don’t find what you are looking for on the first search. F&S CCFD Unit Leaders
Do you have questions about the CCFD campaign? F&S has people who can help across the organization. Feel free to reach out to any of them. Here are the 2025 unit leaders: Rebecca Bigelow Montez Harris Angel Nieves Allen Cravens Jon Hasselbring Robin Royer Andres Fradkin Kelly Jo Hoffmann Katie Slough Chad Garrett Luke Hooper David Smithenry Don Gerard Stephanie Landess Doni Walker
September Noontime Knowledge
On Wednesday, September 24, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee invites you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by viewing “American Historia: The Untold History of Latinos.” Join host John Leguizamo “on a journey into the rich and often overlooked history of Latinos.” To join the Noontime Knowledge on Sept. 24 at noon, use this link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/88131060335?pwd=zR830Sms6uZsmnyyMigP3cWpjvFmhR.1 Alternatively, open Zoom, click “Join a Meeting,” and enter the following meeting ID and password where prompted: Meeting ID: 881 3106 0335
Password: 473329 You can also join by phone at 312-626-6799 or 470-250-9358, using the same meeting number, followed by the pound sign (#), when prompted. If you have questions, please contact Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905.
F&S Fall Blood Drive:
Now with Afternoon Hours!
If you’ve been wanting to donate blood at F&S, but prefer to wait until after you’ve had your lunch, now is your chance! There are still nine time slots available for whole blood donation and four for double red cell. Sign up for the fall blood drive, which offers afternoon hours on Tuesday, September 30. The drive begins at 11 a.m., and there are slots available until 3 p.m. Donate blood and receive a voucher for a $20 gift card! Sign up at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive or by contacting Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. Now, your donation can count doubly. Register your donation at the F&S drive (Text DONATE to 222688 (ABBOTT) or go to https://bigten.org/abbott/) and earn a limited-edition Homefield vintage Illini T-shirt while helping the U. of I. in a friendly competition with the other Big Ten schools. The university whose supporters donate the most blood during the competition (ending December 5) will win $1 million to use toward health initiatives. The U. of I. is currently in sixth place. You can also check the standings at the link. Blood donation is always an approved activity with prior supervisory approval. Team members may charge up to one hour to work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations. Abbott Power Plant under Construction on July 24, 1940.
Happy Birthday Abbott Power Plant
Take a moment next Tuesday, September 23, to celebrate 85 years of Abbott Power Plant. Named for William L. Abbott, a former chief operating engineer of Commonwealth Edison who had also served as president of the university’s board of trustees, the plant came online in 1940 with one boiler and a 4,000 KW turbine, and it has been powering the campus ever since. While it was originally coal burning, the plant is now fuel flexible and can utilize natural gas, coal, and fuel oil in its combustion turbines and boilers. Abbott supplies as much as 75 percent of campus’ energy demand. As a cogeneration facility, it can produce both steam and electricity reliably, which is crucial to research. Abbott continues to meet or exceed all Environmental Protection Agency emission standards, and its equipment is designed to reduce its carbon emissions each year. Congratulations to all, past and present, who have kept the plant operational over the past eight and a half decades.
Flu Clinics Begin
Ah, fall! With its changing colors, homecoming, and crisper temperatures, there’s a lot to look forward to. Fall also means flu shot clinics, and many in Champaign-Urbana start next week!
On Campus
McKinley Health Center has flu shots for most university employees. Gather your state-sponsored health plan insurance card and your state ID. Then come to McKinley Health Center, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., or stop by one of the many campus outreach locations, including the following: Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, Lobby, September 22 & 23, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Main Library, Orange Room, September 24 & 25, 2 to 6 p.m. College of Veterinary Medicine, Basic Science Building, Atrium, September 29, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and September 30, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, including a map of the above locations and the locations, times, and dates for October and November clinics, visit https://mckinley.illinois.edu/flu-shot-information. In the Community
Carle and Christie Clinic will again offer flu shots at convenient locations. Carle’s flu clinics will all be held on the second floor of the Windsor location (1818 E. Windsor Rd., Urbana), with dates beginning October 8, 9, and 10, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christie’s flu clinics at Christie Clinic in Champaign (on Windsor Rd.) are drive-through and include September 25, 5:30 to 7 p.m. September 27, 7 a.m. to noon At Local Pharmacies
CVS, Walgreens, and Costco all offer the flu shot. Chambamamoms.com has more information, including additional dates, times, and locations (e.g., Danville and Mahomet) at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/09/flu-shots-urbana-champaign/.
2025 Illinois Green Infrastructure & Erosion Control Conference
F&S Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director Jeff Angiel will open the 2025 Illinois Green Infrastructure & Erosion Control Conference on Tuesday, October 28. The one-day conference runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center (1900 First St., Champaign), with a site visit to Solo Gratia Farm in Urbana. The conference, presented by the Champaign County Stormwater Partnership, is free and includes sessions on many interesting topics, including “Depaving: The Groundwork for Urban Climate Adaption,” “Beavers: The Original Ecological Engineer,” and “How Local Farms Play a Crucial Role in Food Security.” Registration is open through October 14. To sign up or learn more, visit https://www.ccstormwater.org/.
CU One-to-One Mentoring
If you missed the informational lunches this week about mentoring in Champaign-Urbana schools, but are still interested in volunteering, it’s not too late to sign up. With CU One-to-One, mentors are usually assigned a third grader. (F&S mentors are often at Booker T. Washington STEM Academy in Champaign.) This year, it is also possible to mentor an older child, as there is a waiting list of more than two dozen students at Franklin and Jefferson Middle Schools. Mentoring is an approved event at F&S, and up to an hour a week can be charged. You’ll receive training (see dates and times in image), and mentoring coordinators are always available to help. To volunteer, fill out the form on the CU One-to-One website at https://www.cu1to1.org/.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: New Leadership Training Series
Human Resources, Diversity, & Strategy (HRDS) is proud to partner with the Illinois Leadership Center to offer a series of new leadership workshops. The first offering in this series, “Leading with Empathy and Compassion,” focuses on balancing empathy with effectiveness through compassionate leadership and will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. Upcoming Sessions
F&S training sessions in September include the following opportunities: Rebuilding TRUST: Tactics for Leading Hard Conversations with Heart: Wednesday, September 24, at 1 p.m., online. From Raw Data to Smart Capital Planning—Optimizing Facility Asset Investments: Thursday, September 25, at noon, online. A Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) training session will be offered in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 9 to 11 a.m. on September 25. A training session on the Grievance Process will also be offered on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue
If you’ve been interested in this program that helps you become a more effective communicator, but haven’t been able to make the full days fit into your schedule, there’s a new opportunity. Four half-day sessions will be offered in October (Tuesdays, October 21 and 28, and Thursdays, October 23 and 30), from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Continental breakfast will be provided each day. Click this link to register. Registration closes on Tuesday, October 14. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.

Data Survey Participation Requested
Each year, the campus requires units to complete a data survey to assess the usage and storage of sensitive data. To participate, go to https://forms.office.com/r/ipF63AWz1H. Please complete the survey by Friday, October 3. Contact Brad Trankina trankina@illinois.edu, 217-300-1384 in Information Technology Services with any questions.
Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community Homecoming Events—2025 Illinois Homecoming Week events begin this Sunday, with an Illinois Homecoming Run, and conclude next Sunday, with the Marching Illini in Concert at the State Farm Center. In between, there is a book panel, a film, a talent show, a carnival on the Engineering Quad, the Homecoming Parade and Post-Parade Party (the parade, with grand marshals REO Speedwagon, steps off at 6 p.m. on Friday), the football game (kickoff at 11 a.m. on Saturday), and more. See all the details at https://homecoming.illinois.edu/schedule/. Spooky Season Activities—October is coming quickly, and with it comes a whole ghost of activities to appeal to mummies, zombies, witches, and wizards, of all shapes and sizes. Farmer City is hosting a Haunted Forest. There are pumpkin patches and “paint a pumpkin” events; hayrack rides, s’mores, and a costume contest at Prairie Farm; laser Halloween at the Staerkel Planetarium; book giveaways; and so much more. See the continuously growing list at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/08/18/halloween-events-champaign-urbana/. Crop Science Open House—Come out to the Crop Sciences Research and Education Center (4202 S. First St., Champaign), on Saturday, September 20, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., for the Harvest Open House. People of all ages are invited to this interactive experience. There will be fun, hands-on activities, as well as information about scientific advances in agriculture production. Visit https://cropsciences.illinois.edu/news-events/harvest-open-house for more details. The Constitution and Everyday Life—The Main Library Gallery (1408 W. Gregory Dr., Champaign) has an exhibit on the US Constitution that runs through September 30, during regular library hours. It “highlights key rights and freedoms and their relevance for all who are part of campus life.” Learn more at https://calendars.illinois.edu/detail/1546/33532166. Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library—People with wee ones can sign their kids up (birth to five) to receive a free age-appropriate book each month from the Imagination Library. Nearly 3,000 children in Champaign County are already participating. Join at https://imaginationlibrary.com/usa/affiliate/ILCHAMPAIGN/?. Use the site to check availability in other Illinois counties. Sustainable Timber—Two events on Sunday, September 21 and Monday, September 22 open to the public will take place to demonstrate and encourage discussion of sustainable timber. On Sunday, a local lumber solar mill demo at the Experimental Forestry Plantation starts at 1 p.m. On Monday, September 22, a lecture on sustainable timber extraction will happen at 6 p.m. at Plym Auditorium. For more information, maps, and parking options, visit: https://go.illinois.edu/SustainableTimber.
Save the Date September 21 to 27—Illinois Homecoming September 30—F&S Fall Blood Drive October 22—Noontime Knowledge October 23—All-Employee Expo November 11—Veterans Day Through November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive November 27 & 28—Thanksgiving break

September 12, 2025

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September 5, 2025

Click here to see this online
Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)
F&S Fall Blood Drive:
Now with Afternoon Hours!
If you’ve been wanting to donate blood at F&S, but prefer to wait until after you’ve had your lunch, now is your chance! Sign up for the fall blood drive, which offers afternoon hours on Tuesday, September 30. The drive begins at 11 a.m., and there are slots available until 3 p.m. for both whole blood and double red cell. Donate blood and receive a voucher for a $20 gift card! Sign up at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BloodDrive or by contacting Steve Breitwieser sbreit@illinois.edu, 217-300-2155. Now, your donation can count doubly. Register your donation at the F&S drive (Text DONATE to 222688 (ABBOTT) or go to https://bigten.org/abbott/) and earn a limited-edition Homefield vintage Illini T-shirt while helping the U. of I. in a friendly competition with the other Big Ten schools. The university whose supporters donate the most blood during the competition (ending December 5) will win $1 million to use toward health initiatives. And in case it motivates you to donate at F&S or at another campus drive, the Badgers are currently winning. You can also check the standings at the link. Blood donation is always an approved activity with prior supervisory approval. Team members may charge up to one hour to work order {XX-9999} phase 42 Blood Donations.

Mentoring Recruitment Lunch
Do you enjoy talking with kids? Consider becoming a mentor! CU One-to-One pairs each adult volunteer with a student in third grade or older. Mentors are not responsible for a student’s academic achievements at all. The purpose of mentoring is to provide each student with a trusted adult who listens to them and shows up for them. You may play games, do puzzles, shoot baskets, or just hang out and chat. Mentors, over time, can become friends and confidants to their mentees. Mentors report that watching their students grow and mature over time is very rewarding. One who has been mentoring for several years said, “I love meeting my mentee and enjoying her energy and passion about things. I’m honored she trusts me.” Mentees say that they enjoy having an adult show up for them without an agenda. One noted, “I love being able to have someone who always believes in me and supports me in all my endeavors.” If this sounds like fun, you can be a mentor to a student in the Champaign-Urbana schools. Mentoring is an approved activity at F&S. Learn more about this opportunity at one of two mentoring recruitment lunches at PPSB on Thursday, September 11. Choose either noon or 12:30 p.m. to stop by conference room 128. You’ll enjoy a pizza lunch and a mentoring presentation by Lauren Smith, the community outreach coordinator for CU One-to-One Mentoring. Current mentors will also be on hand to answer questions about why they started mentoring and why they keep going. You can also learn more on the CU One-to-One website at https://www.cu1to1.org/. Questions about the mentoring recruitment lunches may be addressed to Jim Sims jimsims@illinois.edu.

Leave Balance Discrepancies in Mobile Timekeeping
Several team members have noted discrepancies in their leave balances as noted in Mobile Timekeeping. Illinois Human Resources is aware of an issue regarding non-exempt civil service team members, particularly those who experienced a job change during a pay period. Team members are asked to compare their “check stub” balance to their Mobile Timekeeping balance. The former is pulled from Banner. If there is a discrepancy, please report it to your supervisor, who will add your name, badge number, and shop code to the spreadsheet for tracking and reconciling this issue. If you have questions or concerns, please contact Angela Cravens acravens@illinois.edu or Eric Smith eas@illinois.edu in Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy.

Bike to Work Day
Cycling enthusiasts are invited to meet up with other like-minded folk on Wednesday, September 10, to celebrate the 15th annual Bike to Work Day in Champaign County. Stop by a campus welcome station between 7 and 10 a.m. for snacks and drinks. If you register in advance, you can also receive a free T-shirt. There are eight campus welcome stations: Alma Mater Plaza Campus Bike Center Campus Recreation Center East College of Veterinary Medicine – Lot F27 Disability Resources and Educational Services I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center – Intersection of First Street and St. Mary’s Road Orchard Downs Siebel Center for Computer Science – Intersection of Main Street and Mathews Avenue You can also stop by your community location to meet friends and neighbors on your way to work. There are eight additional stations. Champaign: Centennial Park (John St. & Crescent Dr.); Downtown; First Street Trail (north of Windsor Rd. at Carle Orthopedics); and Wolfram Research Rantoul: Downtown Savoy: Recreation Center Urbana: Brookens Center and Downtown For exact locations, visit the 2025 map at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BikeToWorkLocations. To preregister, go to https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BiketoWorkDay. In case of inclement weather, Bike to Work Day will be postponed until the following day (September 11).

Software Upgrades for My.FS Portal Scheduled
Several my.FS Portal applications will receive both design and look-and-feel enhancements on Tuesday, September 16, including the following: AiM Account Request Division of Responsibility Preventive Maintenance Reports Voucher Work Order Reporting Work Status Communications These changes will improve security and the user experience. The aim is to create a seamless transition by testing the upgrades before the new environment goes live. No significant maintenance downtime for the portal is expected ahead of this transition. Once the push is made, if you still have questions or concerns, please contact the F&S Information Technology Services Support Desk fandssupportdesk@illinois.edu, 217-244-6350, or at https://supportdesk.fs.illinois.edu.

CCFD Agency Fair
If you’ve been with the university for a while, you are aware that the Campus Charitable Fund Drive (CCFD) takes place every fall; it offers staff, faculty, and retirees the opportunity to join together to make a big difference for hundreds of different charities—locally, nationally, and globally. Last year, more than $1.1 million was raised. Illinois’ new chancellor, Charles Isbell Jr., said in a video about the upcoming giving period that he believes “we must be good ancestors.” This means, he explained, “doing things right now that will create a better place for generations to come. We need to create the future that we want our children and their children to live in.” Whatever that hope for the future looks like for you, there is sure to be a charity or agency that supports that dream. In fact, with more than 700 charities to choose from, it may feel a little overwhelming to see where you’d like to throw your support. This year, to help make your choices a little easier, you’re invited to attend the 2025 CCFD Agency Fair to meet with charitable organizations and learn how your donations can make a difference now and in the future. This is a drop-in event on Wednesday, September 17, between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m., in Illini Room BC, in the Illini Union. Light refreshments will be served. Learn more and watch Chancellor Isbell’s full video at https://ccfd.illinois.edu/.

It’s Time to Finalize Leave Use
University policy requires that vacation and sick leave usage be reported twice a year in May and August. It is now time to finalize leave usage for Civil Service Exempt and Academic Professional team members in the online Vacation/Sick Leave reporting tool, which may be accessed at https://portal.fs.illinois.edu/. Please note the following deadlines for reporting: Civil Service Exempt Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/18/24 – 08/30/25
b. Reporting window opens 09/05/25
c. Human Resources, Diversity & Strategy (HRDS) must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/13/25 Academic Professional Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/16/24 – 08/15/25
b. Reporting window opens 08/16/25
c. HRDS must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/07/25 Once you have entered your leave usage and it is approved by your supervisor, click the “Finalize Period” button on the “Submit Days” page (or the “No Time Used” button if you have no leave usage to report). Please work with your supervisor for accurate, timely reporting. Submit all leave usage for this period as applicable (i.e., vacation, sick, floating holiday, parental, bereavement, jury duty, etc.). If you have a designated FMLA event in progress, be sure to specify the appropriate days as such. Only days applicable to the FMLA event should be designated as “FMLA.” If you have any previous reporting periods that have not yet been finalized, please finalize those, as well.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
New Leadership Training Series
Human Resources, Diversity, & Strategy (HRDS) is proud to partner with the Illinois Leadership Center to offer a series of new leadership workshops. The first offering in this series, “Leading with Empathy and Compassion,” focuses on balancing empathy with effectiveness through compassionate leadership and will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A. Upcoming Sessions in September
F&S training sessions in September include the following opportunities: Strategies to Create the Team Culture You Want & Need: Tuesday, September 9, at 1 p.m., online. How to Successfully Leverage External Resources for Project Success: Thursday, September 11, at noon, online. Avoiding the Hulk Effect: Knowing When Your Superpower Has Become Destructive to Your Team and Career: Tuesday, September 16, at 1 p.m., online. Resolving the Biggest Issue Affecting Leaders: Self-Protective Fears: Thursday, September 18, at 1 p.m., online. Rebuilding TRUST: Tactics for Leading Hard Conversations with Heart: Wednesday, September 24, at 1 p.m., online. From Raw Data to Smart Capital Planning—Optimizing Facility Asset Investments: Thursday, September 25, at noon, online. Performance Partnership Program (PPP) and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) training sessions will be offered in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 9 to 11 a.m. on the following Thursdays in September. September 11 – Performance Partnership Program (PPP) September 25 – Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) A training session on the Grievance Process will be also be offered on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist, jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.
iSEE Congress Event
The Congress is an assembly of the world’s leading scientists, researchers, educators, and activists from different disciplines who focus on global challenges of sustainability, energy generation and conservation, and the environment. This free public event is open to everyone — students, staff, faculty, community members, and beyond. Participants may choose to attend multiple parts of Congress, or just one. Register here: https://isee.illinois.edu/engagement/isee-congress.
Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Bevier Café—With the motto, “you lunch; we learn,” the student-run restaurant reopens for the fall semester. Located in 208 Bevier Hall (905 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana), its hours for self-service are Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lunch service is Tuesday to Friday on days classes are in session, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy a tasty meal while helping students learn restaurant-related skills. Learn more at https://beviercafe.illinois.edu.

Arcola Broom Corn Festival—Festivities begin today (Friday, September 5) and continue through Sunday. The Broom Palace opens at 5 p.m. tonight, and there will be live music at several locations. Tomorrow’s events include street and food vendors; a Broomcorn Parade at 3 p.m., which features the Lawn Rangers; the Little Sweepers Xtreme Fun Zone; and more. Sunday highlights include a Kiddie Tractor Pull at 11 a.m. Throughout the festival, visitors can enjoy broom making and other hands-on activities. Visit https://www.arcolachamber.com/broomcorn-festival for many more details.
One Week Boutique—If you are outfitting kids (newborn to size 14), need gear or toys/books, or even maternity clothes or furniture, you’ll want to check out the One Week Boutique. Everything is gently used (and checked) before it can be sold at the consignment sale. Fall and winter items are featured at the Leonhard Recreation Center (2307 W. Sangamon Dr., Champaign) this Saturday, Sunday, and Monday (September 6 to 8). Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day, with $2 admission for adults on Saturday (but see the link for a free admission coupon). On Monday, most items are 50 percent off. For more information, go to http://oneweekboutique.com/.
Ellnora 20—The biannual guitar festival is back, with a great lineup of musicians and family-fun activities. The 20th event kicks off tonight and continues through September 6. See the schedule, get tickets, and find a note about parking at the venue, the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts (500 S. Goodwin Ave., Urbana), at https://krannertcenter.com/ellnora.
13 Things to Do on Campus with Kids—Chambamamoms has a new list of fun ways to explore the university. Check it out at https://www.chambanamoms.com/2025/09/03/university-of-illinois-campus-things-to-do-with-kids/.
Night Market at the Square—Weather permitting, Urbana will host food trucks, artists, musicians, and more on Thursday evenings in September. The fun takes place in the farmers’ market location of the Lincoln Square parking lot (199 E. High St., Urbana). See their Facebook posting for a list of bands and more: https://www.facebook.com/events/1941990316567794/1941990323234460/?active_tab=about.
Save the Date September 10—Bike to Work Day September 11—Mentor Recruitment Lunches September 16—Light the Night Bike Light Giveaway September 17 to November 12—Campus Charitable Fund Drive September 21 to 27—Illinois Homecoming September 30—F&S Fall Blood Drive October 23—All-Employee Expo

August 29, 2025

Team Member Appreciation Picnic
Keep those summer vibes rolling after Labor Day by coming out for the F&S Team Member Appreciation Picnic on Wednesday, September 3. Three picnics will be held under the Chancellor’s tent in Lot 31 to accommodate all shifts: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 7 to 8:30 p.m., and 2 to 3:30 a.m. (September 4). Please plan on attending during the time slot that corresponds with your work schedule.

Food choices include the following:

Mains: Pulled pork, pulled chicken, beef brisket, or Impossible burgers
Sides: Baked beans, potato salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, and chips, along with a variety of Coke products.
Dessert: Kona Ice Truck or the Moo Mobile

After you eat, relax with colleagues and team up to try your hand at one or more lawn games, including 4-in-a-Row, Bags, and Tumbling Tower.

The appreciation picnic is an F&S-approved event. Day and evening shift team members who attend their respective events will be allotted up to 1½ hours to participate. Use work order {XX-9999}, phase 065, for the time that exceeds your regular lunch hour.

For questions, please contact Doni Walker, associate director of inclusion and organizational development, dewalke@illinois.edu, 217-333-0101.

Bike to Work Day
Cycling enthusiasts are invited to meet up with other like-minded folk on Wednesday, September 10, to celebrate the 15th annual Bike to Work Day in Champaign County. Stop by a campus welcome station between 7 and 10 a.m. for snacks and drinks. If you register in advance, you can also receive a free T-shirt.

There are eight campus welcome stations:

Alma Mater Plaza
Campus Bike Center
Campus Recreation Center East
College of Veterinary Medicine – Lot F27
Disability Resources and Educational Services
I Hotel and Illinois Conference Center – Intersection of First Street and St. Mary’s Road
Orchard Downs
Siebel Center for Computer Science – Intersection of Main Street and Mathews Avenue

You can also stop by your community location to meet friends and neighbors on your way to work. There are eight additional stations.

Champaign: Centennial Park (John St. & Crescent Dr.); Downtown; First Street Trail (north of Windsor Rd. at Carle Orthopedics); and Wolfram Research
Rantoul: Downtown
Savoy: Recreation Center
Urbana: Brookens Center and Downtown

For exact locations, visit the 2025 map at https://tinyurl.com/ms5bp6k7. To preregister, go to https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BiketoWorkDay. In case of inclement weather, Bike to Work Day will be postponed until the following day (September 11).

It’s Time to Finalize Leave Use
University policy requires that vacation and sick leave usage be reported twice a year in May and August. It is now time to finalize leave usage for Civil Service Exempt and Academic Professional team members in the online Vacation/Sick Leave reporting tool, which may be accessed at https://portal.fs.illinois.edu/.

Please note the following deadlines for reporting:

Civil Service Exempt Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/18/24 – 08/30/25
b. Reporting window opens 09/05/25
c. HRDS must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/13/25
Academic Professional Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/16/24 – 08/15/25
b. Reporting window opens 08/16/25
c. HRDS must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/07/25

Once you have entered your leave usage and it is approved by your supervisor, click the “Finalize Period” button on the “Submit Days” page (or the “No Time Used” button if you have no leave usage to report). Please work with your supervisor for accurate, timely reporting. Submit all leave usage for this period as applicable (i.e., vacation, sick, floating holiday, parental, bereavement, jury duty, etc.). If you have a designated FMLA event in progress, be sure to specify the appropriate days as such. Only days applicable to the FMLA event should be designated as “FMLA.”

If you have any previous reporting periods that have not yet been finalized, please finalize those, as well.

iCount Volunteers Needed
Every fall, the local iRead • iCount program looks for volunteers for the iCount portion of the program, which this year runs from September 29 through December 12. During that period, volunteers will spend an hour a week in a Champaign or Urbana public elementary school (you can choose which school you volunteer at). Many volunteers are needed; while no additional language skills are required, people fluent in Spanish or French are necessary for the dual-language programs.

Applications for the fall iCount program must be submitted by Thursday, September 4. Those submitting an application can choose to participate in iCount, the spring iRead program, or both. Volunteers work with kindergartners and first graders, so no need to worry that your math skills are not high enough to help. The purpose of the program is to “develop and reinforce basic reading and math skills.” The kids benefit from extra attention in a small group setting. All necessary materials are supplied. The only missing ingredient is you!

If you’d like to help the youngest learners, please visit https://www.champaigncounty.org/iread-icount/ to learn more or fill out an application for either Champaign Unit 4 or Urbana District 116. Note that volunteer mentoring activities for local elementary and secondary students (with supervisor approval and not to exceed one hour per week) are an approved event. See the campus policy at https://cam.illinois.edu/policies/hr-12/.

Mentoring Recruitment Lunch
If volunteering to support academics (see above) is not your forte, but you enjoy helping students, consider becoming a mentor! CU One-to-One pairs each adult volunteer with a student in third grade or older. Mentors are not responsible for a student’s academic achievements at all. The purpose of mentoring is to provide each student with a trusted adult who listens to them and shows up for them. You may play games, do puzzles, shoot baskets, or just hang out and chat.

Mentors, over time, can become friends and confidants to their mentees. Mentors report that watching their students grow and mature over time is very rewarding. One who has been mentoring for several years said, “I love meeting my mentee and enjoying her energy and passion about things. I’m honored she trusts me.” Mentees say that they enjoy having an adult show up for them without an agenda. One noted, “I love being able to have someone who always believes in me and supports me in all my endeavors.”

If this sounds like fun, you can be a mentor to a student in the Champaign-Urbana schools. Mentoring is an approved activity at F&S. Learn more about this opportunity at one of two mentoring recruitment lunches at PPSB on Thursday, September 11. Choose either noon or 12:30 p.m. to stop by conference room 128. You’ll enjoy a pizza lunch and a mentoring presentation by Lauren Smith, the community outreach coordinator for CU One-to-One Mentoring. Current mentors will also be on hand to answer questions about why they started mentoring and why they keep going.

You can also learn more on the CU One-to-One website at https://www.cu1to1.org/. Questions about the mentoring recruitment lunches may be addressed to Jim Sims jimsims@illinois.edu.

Upcoming Conferences

NSC Safety Congress & Expo
The National Safety Council’s annual conference for safety professionals is being held in Denver this year, with professional development seminars from September 12 to 14 and 17 to 18. The Congress & Expo portion is from September 15 to 17. The Expo has lined up more than 1,00 exhibitors, along with keynote speakers, and seminars on a variety of topics, including OSHA’s Top 10: The Most Frequently Cited Standards of FY2025 and Safety Is a Shared Responsibility. Learn more at https://congressprogram.nsc.org/.

MAPPA Conference
The Midwest Region of APPA is excited to host its 2025 conference at the historic Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from September 22 to 24. Join other facilities professionals in learning about operations, space management, leadership, training, technology advances, renewables, and more. This year’s theme is “Brewing Up Success: A Better Future in Facilities.” For the conference schedule or to register, visit https://whova.com/web/nFw3mn-vAku5G9L99jTziG7zzdD38fsCHW6uyYJkF3E%3D/.

Road Closures (and an Opening)

Flyover Ramp Now Open
The new five-story tall flyover ramp connecting westbound I-74 to southbound I-57 opened this week. This is an exciting development in the ongoing project to convert the former cloverleaf-design ramps to safer flyover ones. Construction efforts continue in the area, as work proceeds on the remaining three ramps. Crews are striving to complete this work by the end of the year. See the press release at https://illinois-department-of-transportation.prezly.com/i-5774-milestone-new-flyover-ramp-opens-to-traffic.

Anthony Drive Road Closure Extended
The daytime closure of traffic in both directions on Anthony Drive between Dobbins Drive and Campbell Drive has been extended through Friday, September 26. East- and westbound traffic will continue to be rerouted between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Learn more at https://champaignil.gov/tag/road-closure/.

Football Traffic Closures
Team members are reminded to watch for increased traffic (vehicle and pedestrian) around Memorial Stadium as sports fans arrive to kick off the fall football season today. Street closures in the area begin at noon. See many more details at https://emails.illinois.edu/newsletter/61/260948261.html.

Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:

New Leadership Training Series
Human Resources, Diversity, and Strategy (HRDS) is proud to partner with the Illinois Leadership Center to offer a series of new leadership workshops. The first offering in this series, “Leading with Empathy and Compassion,” focuses on balancing empathy with effectiveness through compassionate leadership and will take place from 10 to 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 16, in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A.

Upcoming Sessions in September
F&S training sessions in September include the following opportunities:

Strategies to Create the Team Culture You Want & Need: Tuesday, September 9, at 1 p.m., online.
How to Successfully Leverage External Resources for Project Success: Thursday, September 11, at noon, online.
Avoiding the Hulk Effect: Knowing When Your Superpower Has Become Destructive to Your Team and Career: Tuesday, September 16, at 1 p.m., online.
Resolving the Biggest Issue Affecting Leaders: Self-Protective Fears: Thursday, September 18, at 1 p.m., online.
Rebuilding TRUST: Tactics for Leading Hard Conversations with Heart: Wednesday, September 24, at 1 p.m., online.
From Raw Data to Smart Capital Planning—Optimizing Facility Asset Investments: Thursday, September 25, at noon, online.

Performance Partnership Program (PPP) and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) training sessions will be offered in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 9 to 11 a.m. on the following Thursdays in September.

A training session on the Grievance Process will be offered in Stores 1A on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training.

HRDS is always seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community

Financial Fitness—Prepare for the financial challenges of retirement with a webinar that covers the most common challenges people face in planning for, and successfully navigating, retirement. The free Zoom event on Thursday, September 4, from noon to 1 p.m., is offered by Prudential Pathways in partnership with the university’s Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services.Register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/FinancialWellness. You could also sign up for a free personalized financial wellness check on Thursday, September 11, at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/financial_wellness_checkup.

Penguin Project—The Champaign Urbana Theatre Company proudly presents Shrek The Musical Jr. The Penguin Project fills each featured role with a young person (ages 11 to 24) with a developmental disability. These young artists are joined on stage with a peer mentor (ages 12 to 24) without disabilities. Paired together throughout the rehearsal and performance process, the Penguin Project brings creative collaboration and a joy of theatre to performers and audience alike. Attend a show at the Urbana High School Theatre (Cobb Auditorium, 1002 S. Race Street, Urbana) tonight (Friday, August 29, at 7 p.m.), tomorrow (Saturday, August 30, at 3 p.m.), or Sunday (August 31, at 3 p.m.). Tickets are available at https://cutc.ludus.com. Learn more about the Penguin Project at https://www.cutheatreco.org/penguin-project.

MVP Mondays—If the Fighting Illini win this weekend, you can parlay that into a 20 percent discount off your purchase at the Illini Union Bookstore on Monday. Just say, “Go Illini!” at the register or type the code GOILLINI online. This promotion will be good every Monday following a U. of I. football win this semester. Some exclusions apply. Learn more at https://www.instagram.com/p/DNvsYiF2iBU/.

Labor Day Parade—The parade steps off at 11 a.m. on Monday, September 1, at the corner of N. Chestnut Street and E. Main Street in downtown Champaign. The route proceeds along N. Walnut Street, E. Chester Street, and N. Neil Street, ending at E. Washington Street. A picnic will follow between noon and 2 p.m. at the Neil Street Plaza. There will be food, magic, bounce houses, music, and other family-friendly activities. The Esquire is offering 10 percent off if you wear a union shirt. More information is available at https://champaigncommunitycoalition.org/event/champaign-afl-cio-central-labor-council-labor-day-parade-and-celebration/.

Illini Union Restaurants—Illini Union restaurants are ready for the fall semester. Eateries include Brien’s Bistro (coming soon), Just Bee Acai, Maize Mexican Grill, Mia Za’s Express, Moo of I, Starbucks, Tai Fusion, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe. See locations, hours, menus, and more at https://union.illinois.edu/food.

August 22, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Team Member Appreciation Picnic
Mark your calendars! The F&S Team Member Appreciation Picnic will be back under the Chancellor’s tent in Lot 31 on Wednesday, September 3. Three picnics will be held to accommodate all shifts: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., 7 to 8:30 p.m., and 2 to 3:30 a.m. (September 4). Please plan on attending during the time slot that corresponds with your work schedule. Food choices include the following: Mains: Pulled pork, pulled chicken, beef brisket, or Impossible burgers Sides: Baked beans, potato salad, pasta salad, coleslaw, and chips, along with a variety of Coke products. Dessert: Kona Ice Truck or the Moo Mobile After you eat, relax with coworkers and team up to try your hand at one or more lawn games, including 4-in-a-Row, Bags, and Tumbling Tower. The appreciation picnic is an F&S-approved event. Day and evening shift team members who attend their respective events will be allotted up to 1½ hours to participate. Use work order {XX-9999}, phase 065, for the time that exceeds your regular lunch hour. For questions, please contact Doni Walker, associate director of inclusion and organizational development, dewalke@illinois.edu, 217-333-0101.

Jeff Angiel Interview in the News-Gazette
F&S’ Associate Vice Chancellor and Executive Director Jeff Angiel was spotlighted in the “Beyond the Boardroom” series this past weekend. The recurring column interviews local movers and shakers in a Q&A format. The News-Gazette noted that Angiel’s edition was the 294th installment. The Q&A is always a mix of light general questions and ones that delve into the work philosophy of the featured person. Questions for Angiel ranged from the last good book he read (Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer) to what time he wakes up in the morning (the “oddly specific time” of 6:11 a.m.) and from his philosophy on meetings (“purposeful and action-oriented” and to always close “with a summary of the content and any action items that result”) to inquiring about his “one unbreakable rule of the workplace.” To learn what that is and to see the answers to these and more than a dozen additional questions, visit https://www.news-gazette.com/news/local/people/beyond-the-boardroom-ui-facilities-services-jeff-angiel/article_2a477bcc-5470-4ce0-b464-0ed3e10bb730.html.

iCount Volunteers Needed
Every fall, the local iRead • iCount program looks for volunteers for the iCount portion of the program, which this year runs from September 29 through December 12. During that period, volunteers will spend an hour a week in a Champaign or Urbana public elementary school (you can pick which one you volunteer at). Many volunteers are needed; while no additional language skills are required, people fluent in Spanish or French are necessary for the dual-language programs. Applications for the fall iCount program must be submitted by Thursday, September 4. Those submitting an application can choose to participate in iCount, the spring iRead program, or both. Volunteers work with kindergartners and first graders, so no need to worry that your math skills are not high enough to help. The purpose of the program is to “develop and reinforce basic reading and math skills.” The kids benefit from extra attention in a small group setting. All necessary materials are supplied. The only missing ingredient is you! If you’d like to help the youngest learners, please visit https://www.champaigncounty.org/iread-icount/ to learn more or fill out an application for either Champaign Unit 4 or Urbana District 116. Note that volunteer mentoring activities for local elementary and secondary students (with supervisor approval and not to exceed one hour per week) are an approved event. See the campus policy at https://cam.illinois.edu/policies/hr-12/.

Mentoring Recruitment Lunch
If volunteering to support academics (see above) is not your forte, but you enjoy helping students, consider becoming a mentor! CU One-to-One pairs each adult volunteer with a student in third grade or older. Mentors are not responsible for a student’s academic achievements at all. The purpose of mentoring is to provide each student with a trusted adult who listens to them and shows up for them. You may play games, do puzzles, shoot baskets, or just hang out and chat. Mentors, over time, can become friends and confidants to their mentees. Mentors report that watching their students grow and mature over time is very rewarding. One who has been mentoring for several years said, “I love meeting my mentee and enjoying her energy and passion about things. I’m honored she trusts me.” Mentees say that they enjoy having an adult show up for them without an agenda. One noted, “I love being able to have someone who always believes in me and supports me in all my endeavors.” If this sounds like fun, you can be a mentor to a student in the Champaign-Urbana schools. Mentoring is an approved activity at F&S. Learn more about this opportunity at one of two mentoring recruitment lunches at PPSB on Thursday, September 11. Choose either noon or 12:30 p.m. to stop by conference room 128. You’ll enjoy a pizza lunch and a mentoring presentation by Lauren Smith, the community outreach coordinator for CU One-to-One Mentoring. Current mentors will also be on hand to answer questions about why they started mentoring and why they keep going. You can also learn more on the CU One-to-One website at https://www.cu1to1.org/. Questions about the mentoring recruitment lunches may be addressed to Jim Sims jimsims@illinois.edu.

F&S Safety Committee
There’s a new committee at F&S that will convene monthly to discuss safety issues. The committee comprises a representative for each trade, as well as an individual serving in leadership from Building Maintenance & Grounds, Safety & Compliance, Shared Administrative Services, Transportation & Building Services, and Utilities & Energy Services. The current makeup of the committee is as follows: Woody Bagwell Shawn Hadler Rob Roman Jenny Watkins Steve Bainbridge Steve Hahn Cory Roseman Nathan Whalen Stuart DeHaro Travis Molitor Becky Sudduth Dan White Adrian Flowers Jeremy Neighbors Pete Varney Al York Ryan Goulding Ryan Ritter Ryan Waters
F&S team members are invited to bring safety-related concerns to any committee member, who will then bring these concerns to the committee for discussion of the issue and potential solutions. Your participation in making the F&S workspace as safe as possible is greatly appreciated.

Quad Day Approved Closures
A major student gathering event will necessitate closures this weekend. Traffic maps and additional information for the closures are available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Closures. When traveling on campus at the start of the semester, please slow down, use caution, and yield to pedestrians. Especially remain aware in areas with street closures or around construction areas. For questions about university-related transportation services and initiatives, contact Transportation Systems Manager Stacey DeLorenzo sdeloren@illinois.edu, 217-300-1750. Quad Day – Sunday, August 24, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Bike racks south of the Natural History Building, adjacent to the Woolly Mammoth sculpture Gregory Drive between Sixth Street and the Morrow Plots crosswalk The parking lot between the Literatures, Cultures and Linguistics Building and Smith Memorial Hall

It’s Time to Finalize Leave Use
University policy requires that vacation and sick leave usage be reported twice a year in May and August. It is now time to finalize leave usage for Civil Service Exempt and Academic Professional team members in the online Vacation/Sick Leave reporting tool, which may be accessed at https://portal.fs.illinois.edu/.
Please note the following deadlines for reporting: Civil Service Exempt Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/18/24 – 08/30/25
b. Reporting window opens 09/05/25
c. HRDS must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/13/25 Academic Professional Reporting
a. Reporting period: 08/16/24 – 08/15/25
b. Reporting window opens 08/16/25
c. HRDS must transmit balances to Banner via the VSL application NO LATER than 09/07/25 Once you have entered your leave usage and it is approved by your supervisor, click the “Finalize Period” button on the “Submit Days” page (or the “No Time Used” button if you have no leave usage to report). Please work with your supervisor for accurate, timely reporting. Please submit ALL leave usage for this period as applicable (i.e., vacation, sick, floating holiday, parental, bereavement, jury duty, etc.). If you have a designated FMLA event in progress, be sure to specify the appropriate days as such. Only days applicable to the FMLA event should be designated as “FMLA.” If you have any previous reporting periods that have not yet been finalized, please finalize those, as well. Benefit usage must be reported and finalized promptly, in case there are issues that need to be resolved. Again, Civil Service Exempt reporting must be uploaded to BANNER no later than 09/13/25, and Academic Professional reporting must be uploaded no later than 09/07/25.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring: F&S Training Calendar
The fall training calendar is beginning to fill up with interesting offerings for professional development. Here are a few examples: Coaching for Accountability: Beyond Discipline and Compliance: Wednesday, August 27, at 1 p.m., online. Finding the Holy Grail—The Integration of Capital and Maintenance Datasets: Thursday, September 4, at noon, online. Strategies to Create the Team Culture You Want & Need: Tuesday, September 9, at 1 p.m., online. How to Successfully Leverage External Resources for Project Success: Thursday, September 11, at noon, online. Avoiding the Hulk Effect: Knowing When Your Superpower Has Become Destructive to Your Team and Career: Tuesday, September 16, at 1 p.m., online. Resolving the Biggest Issue Affecting Leaders: Self-Protective Fears: Thursday, September 18, at 1 p.m., online. Rebuilding TRUST: Tactics for Leading Hard Conversations with Heart: Wednesday, September 24, at 1 p.m., online. From Raw Data to Smart Capital Planning—Optimizing Facility Asset Investments: Thursday, September 25, at noon, online. Performance Partnership Program (PPP) and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) training sessions will be offered in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 9 to 11 a.m. on the following Thursdays in September. September 11 – Performance Partnership Program (PPP) September 25 – Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) A training session on the Grievance Process will be offered in Stores 1A on Thursday, October 9, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, and register at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. Human Resources, Diversity, & Strategy is seeking your input on future learning opportunities. If you or your team have a training need, please submit a Facilities & Services Training Request or contact Joseph Meeker, F&S training & development specialist.

New Information Technology Hub
Technology Services, the university’s information technology unit, has an updated microsite to make asking for IT help and resources easier. The site is easier to navigate. You can request help, review your requests, learn more about what the Enterprise IT Service Catalog has to offer, use the software webstore, and more. You can find the new Illinois Help Center at https://help.uillinois.edu/TDClient/42/UIUC/Home/.

ERIN Now Integrated
ERIN, a long-standing source for F&S “employee resources, information & news,” has now been fully integrated into the F&S external site. The new team member–only site can now be reached at https://fs.illinois.edu. You’ll find the link on the F&S Links pull-down menu or bookmark https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/Home. You’ll still need to use your NetID and password to access the site. In search results, ERIN pages will be marked with the ERIN logo. Questions about the new ERIN experience may be directed to Travis Tate, assistant director of digital strategy & development, tbtate@illinois.edu, 217-244-0493.

The University Shared Benefits Program ensures eligible employees—who have exhausted all accumulated sick leave and, if applicable, vacation leave—can receive additional leave days when a disability claim is pending with the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). Employees must donate to the pool to receive leave from the pool. Civil Service, faculty, and academic professional employees may be eligible to participate if they meet specific requirements. To learn more or to donate to the pool, please visit https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/sharedbenefits. Eligibility will be determined after logging in to the online Donation of Leave form.
Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community
Dump & Run^® Big Sale—If you’re in the market for gently used household items from the big (e.g., sofas) to the small (e.g., books), you’re in luck this weekend: the University YMCA is hosting its Big Sale at the Stock Pavilion (1402 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Urbana; https://www.universityymca.org/what-we-offer/programs/dump-run). Come out during one of these times: Saturday, August 23, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. ($5 admission; free for U. of I. or Parkland College students) Sunday, August 24, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (free admission for all; $3 bag sale and 1/2 price furniture) Sunday, 2:30 to 3 p.m. (all remaining items free)
The Illiac—A free, fun day of music is planned at Hessell Park (1400 Grandview Drive, Champaign) on Saturday, August 23, from 3 to 9 p.m. Kick off your afternoon with fan favorites The Marching Illini, at 3:30 p.m., and wind up your day with Sinfonia Da Camera at 8 p.m. In between, enjoy Bandoneo Massacre and The Soul Syndicate. Food trucks from Smith Burger, Huaraches Moroleon, Stango Cuisine, La Paloma, Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee, and Kona Ice will be available for sustenance purchases, along with beer and wine sales. Bring your own chairs or blankets for seating. Learn more at https://theilliac.com/.
Wellness On-Demand Library—The University of Illinois System has a collection of quick videos (one to 10 minutes in length) to help you take a break. Try a Box Breathing exercise to help you focus, or choose to Move for Two Minutes, or take a Head-to-Toe Stretch Break. If you’ve been sitting at your desk all day, try the 5-Minute Upper Body Reset, or improve your mood with a Gratitude Meditation. Find these and many others at https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/employeedevelopment/sowellness under the On Demand header.
Riggs Sweetcorn Festival—If you’re craving local sweetcorn, come out to Riggs Beer Company (1901 S. High Cross Rd., Urbana) this weekend for fresh-cooked sweet corn and live music. Corn sales support Heritage High School Future Farmers of America (bring some raw ears home to cook later, too). Festivities begin at noon on Saturday, August 23, and the food and music continue until 8 p.m. On Sunday, August 24, food and music run from noon to 7 p.m. See the full schedule of events at https://www.riggsbeer.com/events/sweetcorn-festival/.
Illini Sports Ticket Discount—Faculty and staff can save on season tickets for volleyball and women’s basketball by using the respective links. Two discounted season tickets may be purchased for each sport.
Other Late Summer Festivals—Several other towns in Central Illinois are hosting festivals this weekend. Make a day of it and hit up a couple! Le Roy Fall Fest: https://www.leroy.org/visitors/upcoming-events/event/le-roy-fall-festival-2025 Mahomet Music Festival: https://www.mahometmusicfest.com/schedule-of-activities Ogden Street Fest: https://www.chambanamoms.com/events/ogden-street-fest/ Rantoul Half Century of Progress: https://www.halfcenturyofprogress.com/schedule.html
Save the Date Through August 24—University Housing Move-In August 23 & 24—Dump & Run Big Sale August 25—First Day of Classes September 1—Labor Day (holiday) September 3 & 4—Team Member Appreciation Picnic September 4—iRead • iCount Application Deadline September 10—Bike to Work Day September 11—Mentor Recruitment Lunches September 16—Light the Night Bike Light Giveaway September 30—F&S Fall Blood Drive October 23—2025 All-Employee Expo

August 15, 2025

August 8, 2025

Click here to see this online Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas)

Continuing construction activities for the Illini Hall replacement project will necessitate multiple adjustments to street and sidewalk closures. Through these efforts, crews are striving to finalize the project’s long-term construction configuration and fencing perimeter before the start of the semester.
John Street Closure Extension
Due to ongoing work to support chilled water, electrical, and fiber relocations on John Street, the road will now be closed to traffic through Friday, August 22—a week later than initially indicated. The sidewalk on the north side of John Street, in front of the construction site, will remain closed throughout the project. Pedestrians will be directed to use the south sidewalk from Wright Street and Sixth Street.
Wright Street Sidewalk Adjustment – East Side Section Reopening
To help provide additional access to the Main Quad during the fall semester, the sidewalk on the east side of Wright Street from Alma Mater Plaza to John Street is now open to pedestrians. However, crews may temporarily hold traffic to help facilitate service vehicle entries and exits to the Altgeld Hall exterior renovation construction site. The original Wright Street lane adjustment and sidewalk closure information is at https://fs.illinois.edu/News/long-term-wright-street-sidewalk-adjustment-and-lane-closure/. New pedestrian traffic patterns include a covered walkway on the west side of Wright Street as a part of the expanded construction site perimeter. All approved campus closures can be viewed at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Closures.

Noontime Knowledge: Well-Being Services
Did you know that the university offers well-being services to faculty and staff? On Wednesday, August 20, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee is excited to have two guest speakers from Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services (FSAWS) to explain what is available to you! Assistant Director Sara Maxwell and Program Assistant Yasmin Ofiana will give a “Well-Being Services Overview,” offering an opportunity to learn about the support for creating and maintaining sustainable, healthy habits. Together, we will Discover the goal and functions of FSAWS Explore the wellness activities, challenges, and programs available to help faculty and staff reach their goals (in all eight dimensions of wellness), including Annual initiatives Semesterly programs Resources and services Additional complimentary wellness engagement opportunities Please bring your questions about these benefits; there will be time to ask them after the presentation. To join the Noontime Knowledge on Wednesday, August 20, at noon, use this link: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/88238969720?pwd=bGFyX4EddI55niQF2P69Af13RbEXsb.1 Alternatively, open Zoom, click “Join a Meeting,” and enter the following meeting ID and password where prompted: Meeting ID: 882 3896 9720
Password: 420337 You can also join by phone at 312-626-6799 or 470-250-9358, using the same meeting number, followed by the pound sign (#), when prompted. If you have questions, please contact Julie O’Mahoney jao22@illinois.edu, 217-244-0905.

Household Hazardous Waste Collection
The latest one-day collection event will take place in the State Farm Center parking lot on Saturday, August 9. Registration is required, and a few time slots are still available at https://hhwevent.simplybook.me/v2/. Sign up to recycle your oil-based paints, pesticides, cleaning products, used motor oil, and more. Only one reservation per household is necessary. Click on “Book Now” above and then select one of the available 15-minute time slots. You will automatically receive a confirmation email and/or text if you complete the registration. Other upcoming events that may also be reachable for team members are: Springfield (September 27) https://www.springfield.il.us/Departments/PublicWorks/PublicWorksDefault.aspx?HouseholdHazardousWaste Bloomington (October 4) https://hhwmclean.as.me/schedule/84e46642

Help Make Streets Safer for All!
Have you noticed specific safety concerns when traveling or have thoughts about the future of street redesign, including bike lanes and pedestrian pathways? The Champaign County Regional Planning Commission (CCPRC) and the Champaign Urbana Urban Area Transportation Study (CUUATS) want to hear from you. Take the new Champaign County urban and rural safety plan survey (https://ccrpc.gitlab.io/ss4a-urban/) by Saturday, August 30, to help them develop strategies to address General traveling conditions in Champaign County Intersections or roadway layouts where safety could be improved Opportunities for incorporating new transportation technologies and infrastructure Perceptions of overall multimodal safety (drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, etc.) Additional community insights and concerns Thanks for helping the CCRPC and CUUATS advocate for improvements that make our streets better for all, including roadways that connect with the University District.

Dump & Run Collection
If you’ve spent some time cleaning out your attic, garage, or basement this summer, and you have accumulated things you no longer need, such as Furniture Kitchen items School and office supplies Lawn and garden items Books Clothing Electronics and small appliances … or similar items Consider donating them to the Dump & Run^® hosted by the University YMCA. Collections are underway at the Stock Pavilion (1402 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Urbana). You can drop your gently used items off between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays, through Friday, August 15.* If Saturdays work better, you can bring donation items on either August 9 or 16, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Need assistance with larger items? Dump & Run staff can pick up furniture for free between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. on either August 9 or 16. The Dump & Run also needs volunteers. Sign up to help or schedule a furniture pickup at https://www.universityymca.org/what-we-offer/programs/dump-run. *If you need a later drop-off time, stop by on the Late Collection Day, Wednesday, August 13, when volunteers will be around until 7 p.m. to help.

Dump & Run is a registered trademark of the University YMCA.
Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:
Biannual Crafts & Trades Testing Extended
The enrollment period for testing for the university’s Crafts & Trades positions has been extended. August Openings are available through August 13. Interested people can upload copies of their certifications and licenses, along with a detailed work history. Go to https://humanresources.illinois.edu/bi-annual-testing/ to see the list of available tests. Then click the “View Postings on the Job Board” button at the top to go to the page where clicking the job title will garner more information for that job. Learn about the process online at jobs.illinois.edu or by calling Illinois Human Resources at 217-333-2137.

The fall training calendar is beginning to fill up with interesting offerings for professional development. Here are a few examples: Finding the Holy Grail—The Integration of Capital and Maintenance Datasets: Thursday, September 4, at noon, online. From Raw Data to Smart Capital Planning:
Optimizing Facility Asset Investments: Thursday, September 11, at noon, online. Transforming Higher Education—Practical Applications for Modern Technology and AI in Campus Maintenance: Thursday, October 9, at noon, online.
Performance Partnership Program (PPP) and Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) training sessions will be offered in Stores & Receiving conference room 1A from 9 to 11 a.m. on the following Thursdays in September. Thursday, September 11 – Performance Partnership Program (PPP) Thursday, September 25 – Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) A training session on the Grievance Process will be offered in Stores 1A on Thursday, October 9, from 10–11:30 a.m. Register, and find information about these and other opportunities, such as New Team Member Orientation, at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training.

New Information Technology Hub
Technology Services, the university’s information technology unit, has an updated microsite to make asking for IT help and resources easier. The site is easier to navigate. You can request help, review your requests, learn more about what the Enterprise IT Service Catalog has to offer, use the software webstore, and more. You can find the new Illinois Help Center at https://help.uillinois.edu/TDClient/42/UIUC/Home/.

ERIN Now Integrated

ERIN, a long-standing source for F&S “employee resources, information & news,” has now been fully integrated into the F&S external site. The new team member–only site can now be reached at https://fs.illinois.edu. You’ll find the link on the F&S Links pull-down menu or bookmark https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/Home. You’ll still need to use your NetID and password to access the site. In search results, ERIN pages will be marked with the ERIN logo. Questions about the new ERIN experience may be directed to Travis Tate, assistant director of digital strategy & development, tbtate@illinois.edu, 217-244-0493.

The University Shared Benefits Program ensures eligible employees—who have exhausted all accumulated sick leave and, if applicable, vacation leave—can receive additional leave days when a disability claim is pending with the State Universities Retirement System (SURS). Employees must donate to the pool to receive leave from the pool. Civil Service, faculty, and academic professional employees may be eligible to participate if they meet specific requirements. To learn more or to donate to the pool, please visit https://www.hr.uillinois.edu/leave/sharedbenefits. Eligibility will be determined after logging in to the online Donation of Leave form.

Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the Community Champaign-Urbana Days—The Champaign Park District is hosting this free event in Douglass Park (501 E. Eureka St., Champaign), and the fun lasts all weekend (Hours: Friday, August 8, 5 to 8 p.m.; Saturday, August 9, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Sunday, August 10, 1 to 6 p.m.). There is something for everyone with live music, food, activities for kids, free back-to-school supplies (including backpacks, notebooks, folders, and more; 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, while supplies last), a CU All Stars basketball tournament, inflatables, and other activities. See the full schedule at https://champaignparks.org/event/champaign-urbana-days-cu-days/2025-08-08/.
Shred Day—Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group (1608 Broadmoor Dr., Champaign) is hosting a free shred event on Saturday, August 9, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Securely discard old household papers by bringing them to be shredded at this drive-thru event. Learn more at https://experiencecu.org/events/calendar-of-events?event=20093.
Urbana School District Community Open House—Unit 116 is hosting an open house at the new Sixth Grade Center (1101 E. University Ave., Urbana), from 6 to 7 p.m. on Monday, August 11. This drop-in event is open to the public; stop by to tour the new building. More details are available here: https://www.facebook.com/USD116/photos/incoming-sixth-grade-students-and-families-mark-your-calendar-for-the-ribbon-cut/1381423327033021/
Creating an Ancestor Sketch—How can you present your family history in an engaging and accessible way? The Urbana Free Library and the Champaign County Genealogical Society invite you to learn about ancestor sketches from professional genealogist Thomas MacEntee. He’ll discuss creating interesting pages with photos, facts, family stories, and more. This free event is available over Zoom on Tuesday, August 12, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Come at 6:30 to socialize with other genealogy enthusiasts. To register or learn more, go to https://urbanafreelibrary.libnet.info/event/13225253.
S’mores and Stars—The Champaign Park District invites you to view the peak night of the annual Perseid meteor shower at Porter Park (2310 S. Rising Rd., Champaign) on Tuesday, August 12, from 8 to 10 p.m. A local astronomer will be on hand to discuss the Perseids. There will also be a bonfire over which to make s’mores, or bring your hot dogs to roast. Visit https://champaignparks.org/event/smores-and-stars/ for more details.
Save the Date Through August 16—Dump & Run^® Collection Period (days and time vary) August 17 to 24—University Housing Move-In August 20—Noontime Knowledge August 23 & 24—Dump & Run Big Sale August 25—First Day of Classes September 1—Labor Day (holiday)

Pats on the Back
Remember to give colleagues a Pat on the Back by sending an email to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu. Compliment a deserving team member and have your words posted at https://fs.illinois.edu/Employee/pats-on-the-back/.
Katie Slough, Building Services

August 1, 2025

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Cover of the Summer 2025 Quarterly Report

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Sticky note on a read background. Text says "To Do: Meet FY25 Deadlines

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Persons of Japanese ancestry arrive at the the former Santa Anita race track before being moved inland to relocation centers.

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FY26 Benefit Choice - State Employees Group Insurance Program (May 1 - June 2, 2025) Effective July 1, 2025

April 25, 2025

April 18, 2025

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April 11, 2025

April 4, 2025

An image of the Engineering Open House with tents and people

March 28, 2025

March 21, 2025

March 14, 2025

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March 7, 2025

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Two-Day Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue Training: April 15 and 17

WASP Elizabeth L. Gardner of Rockford, IL, gets ready to fly a B-26 Marauder

February 28, 2025

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Click here to view a printable .pdf of the E-Update F&S TEAM MEMBERS (supervisors, please post in your areas) Facilities & Services Brand Checklist for Staff

University Branding: Brand Platform Launch
Campus has rolled out its new brand platform and is calling for faculty and staff to adopt and follow brand standards. Chancellor Robert J. Jones explained why this is important: “It is critical that we speak with a unified and consistent voice in all of our messaging and communications. A unified brand elevates us all, showcases our unique university personality, and responsibly stewards our resources.” At F&S, there are many things team members can do to help with this effort. Among these are Updating your email signature if you have not already done so (https://brand.illinois.edu/applying-the-brand/email-signature)Referencing the university correctly (https://brand.illinois.edu/messaging/name-and-boilerplate)Using the university’s colors (https://brand.illinois.edu/visual-identity/color)The full brand platform is available at https://brand.illinois.edu/. Questions may be addressed to Associate Director of Customer Relations & Communications (CRC) Malikah Gordon magordon@illinois.edu, 217-333-9218. University Branding: Illinois-Branded Apparel or Merchandise
Illinois-branded apparel and merchandise designed by an F&S unit must now receive written approval from CRC prior to proceeding with any purchase. This includes anything designed at the F&S division level that features our unit’s name, college name, or wordmark. This applies to items for both internal and external use, such as conference swag, office materials, and any other branded materials.Members of the CRC team are the subject matter experts in this area and can assist with ensuring all designs are in compliance. Please send all pre-approval requests and related inquiries to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu. A pdf of the approval must accompany all procurement requests entered in my.FS Portal and be attached to any PCard transactions. Thank you for your attention to this matter and for ensuring we stay aligned with campus branding standards. Windows 11 Hero-Bloom logo

Windows 11 Upgrade
Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 1, 2025. In preparation for this, F&S Information Technology Services (ITS) has been working on a project to update all computers to Windows 11. Over the past year, 20 percent of our computers have been replaced as part of the normal refresh process and are already running Windows 11. In April, ITS will start the next phase of the project. Team members will be contacted individually before their PC is updated to Windows 11. In some cases, it may be necessary to replace PCs instead of updating them. ITS will be updating 400 computers over the next seven months. User support may be unable to accommodate some refresh requests during this time. This update is essential to ensure our systems remain secure, efficient, and up to date with the latest technology. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the ITS Support Desk fandssupportdesk@illinois.edu, 217-244-6350, or at https://supportdesk.fs.illinois.edu. Image of the new additional step screen for multifactor authentication

Image of the new additional step screen for multifactor authentication

Update to Duo Look and Feel
Beginning Monday, March 10, team members who are asked to authenticate themselves on university websites via Duo will notice an additional screen when logging into campus resources. The new screen will note that verification is required and that you will be redirected to Duo (see image at right). You’ll need to click the Continue button to proceed. Once you do that, you’ll sign in via Duo in the usual way. Learn more about this multifactor verification update at https://cybersecurity.illinois.edu/. Athletico at F&S March Schedule
Now with afternoon availability! Athletico’s Industrial Wellness Specialist (IWS) can help assess your aches, pains, stiffness, and the like that are associated with sprains, strains, and other minor ergonomic injuries. IWSs can then address these with heat, ice, massage, taping, stretching or light exercise, and similar remedies that will help promote blood flow and healing.Tuesdays
Thursdays
March 4, 7 to 10 a.m., room 127b
March 6, 7 to 10 a.m., room 127b
March 11, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., room 127
March 13, 7 to 10 a.m., room 127b
March 18, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., room 127b
March 20, 7 to 10 a.m., room 127b
March 25, 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., room 127
March 27, 7 to 10 a.m., room 127b

The program is free, so drop by PPSB to feel and move better after communicating with your supervisor. Remember: these services are only meant to help with minor problems. If you have a major injury, please seek prompt medical care. Questions may be addressed to Occupational Safety and Health Coordinator Ben Kuhlman kuhlmanb@illinois.edu. Orange and Blue logo

Orange and Blue Week
Between Monday, March 3, and Sunday, March 9, the U. of I. is highlighting several crowdfunding projects across campus, including the Bike at Illinois (https://go.fs.illinois.edu/BikeCrowdfunding) initiative that F&S sponsors. The goal of Bike at Illinois is “to promote bicycling on campus and throughout the community as a safe, sustainable, inexpensive, and healthy mode of transport.” Your donation will help support the implementation of the 2024 Campus Bicycle Master Plan. To learn more about Orange and Blue Week, see all the crowdsourced causes that can be supported, or to make a donation, visit https://payment.giving.illinois.edu/orange-and-blue-week-2025. Spring Conference OpportunitiesIllinois Chief Engineers & Facility Managers:This conference will take place at the I Hotel and Conference Center (1900 S. First St., Champaign) on Thursday, March 6, and Friday, March 7. Learn about efficient and sustainable operations of buildings, including the latest technologies and applications; hear from keynote speakers; and join roundtable discussions. A variety of topics will be covered, including energy conservation, solar, sustainability, monitoring and data analytics, construction design and delivery, and more. See the schedule and register at https://publish.illinois.edu/chiefengineers/registration/.

ILAPPA: This conference is Wednesday, March 12, and Thursday, March 13, at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The conference is preceded by a Toolkit, March 9 through 11. Registration is now open for “2025: Down the Rabbit Hole” at https://ilappa.appa.org/2025-conference-supervisor-toolkit-2/.

APPA Spring Conference: Early-bird pricing is available through March 7. This conference is April 9 through 11 in New Orleans. It has four tracks: Reimagining Campus Space, Capital Planning, Talent Recruiting and Retention, and Technology as a Catalyst, with many workshops and presentations offered in each category. Learn more at https://www.appa.org/professional-development/2025-appa-spring-conference/.

Iowa-Illinois Safety Council (IISC): The 72nd Annual Professional Development Conference & Expo is Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24, in Coralville, Iowa. Two- and three-day registration options are available. Two-day registration offers various environmental health and safety topic breakout sessions on April 23 and 24. Three-day registration includes a morning technical session on behavior design and an afternoon technical session on active threat preparedness on April 22. IISC is part of our campus National Safety Council membership. Learn more at https://www.iisc.org/training/pdc.

University of Illinois Web Conference: This 25th edition of the conference is Thursday, April 3, and Friday, April 4. Held virtually, it “brings together web professionals from all corners of the online space.” Learn more at https://webcon.illinois.edu/. Green recycling logo, where one of the arrows is in the shape of a leaf

Spring Leaf Collection
Several area towns have announced their spring yard waste collection dates:Champaign—Champaign residents will have two opportunities to put out yard waste this spring: Orange Zone pickups are April 7 and May 12; Blue Zone pickups are April 14 and May 19. All four dates are Mondays, and yard waste should be out by 6 a.m. Learn more at https://champaignil.gov/public-works/find-a-service/yard-waste/.Mahomet—Leaf and limb collection begins the week of April 7; it is followed by a week of leaf-only collection (no pickup on the 18th, as that is a village holiday). Click on the Landscape Waste link at https://www.mahomet-il.gov/ to download the pdf with all the details. Rantoul—Rantoul’s spring leaf collection period is March 17 to 21). They also offer monthly brush pickup. For more information, visit https://www.village.rantoul.il.us/349/Leaf-Brush-Removal.Urbana—Urbana residents should put out their yard waste on their U-Cycle collection day during the week of April 7 to 11. Note this is the only collection week in Urbana. See https://www.urbanail.gov/public-works/page/spring-leaf-collection for the particulars.The Landscape Recycling Center also remains an option for Champaign County residents: https://www.landscaperecyclingcenter.org/disposal.       Ongoing Events
The following activities are recurring:F&S Training Calendar
The New Team Member Orientation dates have been added to the F&S Training Calendar. Information about these sessions is available at https://go.fs.illinois.edu/Training. FMLA and PPP training opportunities are available on new dates, as well.

Upcoming training opportunities for supervisory staff: Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) – Tuesday, March 4, 9 to 11 a.m. in Central Receiving Building conference room 1APerformance Partnership Program (PPP) – Thursday, March 6, 1 to 3 p.m. in Central Receiving Building conference room 1AThe calendar has links to other training resources that you can explore at any time, such as the LinkedIn Learning Library and Fast-3 Training. Remember to check it regularly for updates! Questions may be addressed to Training and Development Specialist Joseph Meeker jlmeeke2@uillinois.edu, 217-300-6568.Text 9-1-1 is now available in Champaign County. To report an emergency via text, make 9-1-1 the receiver in the To section of the text message. Then include the location of the emergency and the type of help needed in the text message. Use clear, concise language without abbreviations, emoticons, or emojis. Be prepared to answer questions or follow instructions. Remember to silence your phone if a message alert could jeopardize your safety. To learn more about Text 9-1-1, visit https://www.metcad911.org/text/default.html.

988 is the number to call for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Help is available in English and Spanish, 24 hours a day. Please go to https://988lifeline.org/ for other ways to connect (text, chat, for the Deaf/HoH, etc.).

If you prefer to connect with a crisis counselor who focuses solely on supporting the LGBTQ+ community, The Trevor Project also offers 24/7 crisis counselors. Help is available through call (1-866-488-7386), chat (https://chat.trvr.org), or text (SMS:678678). Learn more at https://www.thetrevorproject.org/get-help/. The Trans Hotline (1-877-565-8860; oprime el #2 para conectarte con operadorxs que hablan español) is also available Monday through Friday. Learn more at https://translifeline.org/hotline/.       Snippets from F&S, Campus, and the CommunityClassics Summer Camps—If you have a kid (age 8 to 11) who is obsessed with Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase, Jason Grace, or other Rick Riordan characters, or one who just loves Greek and Roman myths, the university’s Department of Classics has the perfect summer camp opportunity. Registration is now open for multiple sessions of Meet the Greeks and Meet the Romans. Kids will learn about the ancient gods, heroes, and monsters, as well as how ordinary kids lived in those eras. Older kids (14 to 16) can apply for the counselor in training program. Learn more at https://classics.illinois.edu/academics/summer-camps.

Downtown Champaign Survey—The City of Champaign would like to know your ideas for downtown. Do you have thoughts on public spaces, parking, or more? City and county residents, students, business owners, and downtown visitors are invited to participate at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/downtownchampaignplan. The nine-question survey is available in both English and Spanish.
Monarch & Pollinator Fair—Saturday, March 1, 1 to 4 p.m., McKinley Foundation (main lobby), 410 E. Daniel St., Champaign—Butterfly enthusiasts will enjoy this free family-friendly event with face painting, crafts, story times, science activities, games, seed bombs, and more. For more details, visit https://mckinleycu.org/green-team-events/.

CU Day of Fitness—Saturday, March 1, 1 to 5 p.m., Martens Center, 1515 N. Market St., Champaign—The Champaign Park District is sponsoring this fun opportunity to take free classes, such as table tennis, a family fitness class, line dancing, and more. See times at https://www.chambanamoms.com/events/champaign-urbana-day-of-fitness-at-the-martens-center/.

Nick Offerman Japan House Fundraiser—Nick Offerman, fan favorite and university alum, is once again supporting Japan House. Join him for a Japanese bento lunch and his humorous reflections, as well as a chance to have a book signed. The event is Saturday, March 8, from 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Tickets must be purchased by March 5. More information is available at https://web.cvent.com/event/b0a5f397-4487-4a4b-96af-27a795fe48b1/summary.       Save the DateMarch 6 and 7—Illinois Chief Engineers & Facility Managers ConferenceMarch 15 to 23—Spring BreakMarch 26—Noontime KnowledgeApril 1—Consolidated Election

Pats on the Back
Remember to give colleagues a Pat on the Back by sending an email to fscustomerrelations@illinois.edu. Compliment a deserving co-worker and have your words posted at https://go.illinois.edu/POBs.
Tom Pagel, Building Services

February 21, 2025

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