禁漫天堂

Skidmore College staff gathered for the February meeting to discuss campus updates, employee wellness initiatives, and the evolving national higher education landscape.

Welcoming new staff 

Chief Human Resources Officer Julie Delay opened the Friday, Feb. 7, meeting by welcoming 23 new staff members across multiple divisions, including Finance and Administration, Student Affairs, Athletics, Academic Affairs, Communications and Marketing, and Admissions. 

Human Resources updates 

Delay highlighted New York State鈥檚 new paid prenatal leave law, which came into effect in January and grants up to 20 hours of paid time off for pregnancy-related healthcare appointments, including fertility care, for pregnant employees. This benefit is separate from existing sick or personal time and will soon be added to Skidmore鈥檚 employee handbook. 

She also reminded employees of upcoming events, including: 

• Lovefest: Friday, Feb. 14, in Wyckoff Center. 
• Writing with Clarity Workshop: Thursday, Feb. 20.   
• Retirement Planning Workshop: Tuesday, March 18 - Thursday, March 20.   Enrollment is limited and required.  
• Reclaim Your Brain Workshop: Tuesday, March 11. 
• Retirement and Recognition Ceremony: Tuesday, May 20 

Additionally, she reminded employees enrolled in MVP Health Care about a $300 annual reimbursement for alternative health services, such as acupuncture, fitness memberships, and massage therapy. 

President鈥檚 remarks 

President Marc Conner spoke about his recent attendance at an event honoring 12 employees, including three student employees, who helped to administer lifesaving support and care for others during an emergency medical crisis in the fall. They were presented with a President鈥檚 Commendation for their actions.  

He went on to address the national higher education climate, acknowledging the uncertainty and anxiety caused by recent federal actions and executive orders. He emphasized Skidmore鈥檚 unwavering commitment to its mission, values, and students. 

President Conner highlighted efforts to support students. He assured staff that the administration is closely monitoring developments affecting federal funding, research grants, and DEI policies. 

Strategic Plan draft and community feedback 

President Conner also discussed the newly released 2025-2030 Strategic Plan draft, emphasizing its aspirational yet realistic approach. He encouraged faculty and staff to review the document and provide feedback. Employees are also invited to: 

• Watch a recording of the open forum to discuss the Strategic Plan that was held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, and was open to all community members. (A recording will be available soon.) 
• Visit Strategic Planning office hours from 10 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 19, and from 9 to 10 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 20. (Email presoff@skidmore.edu to register.)  
• Email planning@skidmore.edu with additional feedback and suggestions. 

Details about the Strategic Planning process and timeline, as well as other materials, can be viewed on the Skidmore 2030 webpage. The Board of Trustees will review the plan at its February meeting, with final approval expected in May. 

Inclusion and Belonging Group 

As part of the College鈥檚 efforts to be more proactive in responding to and preparing for changes in higher education, Dean of Students and Vice President for Student Affairs Adrian Bautista noted that a number of staff members from across campus have been coming together on a weekly basis to discuss current events (both on campus and off) and what programs may be needed to best meet the needs of the campus community. 

Bautista reminded staff that the Student Assessment Intervention Group remains an ongoing resource and to use the in case of concerns about a student.  

McCaffery-Wagman Tennis and Wellness Center opening 

Peter Fisher, assistant director of athletics, shared updates on the McCaffery-Wagman Tennis and Wellness Center, which has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, staff, and alumni. Fitness classes have been expanded, and the facility is open to all students, employees, and alumni with a valid Skidmore ID. One guest accompanying each employee with a valid Skidmore ID is also allowed. Staff were reminded to bring clean athletic shoes to maintain the space. 

Upcoming Meetings 

To improve accessibility, the next staff meeting will take place on a Wednesday. The next staff meeting will take place at 1 p.m. on Wednesday, March 5, in Murray-Aikins Dining Hall.  

The following meeting will resume a Friday schedule on Friday, April 4, and will be followed by a networking luncheon and abbreviated staff meeting on Wednesday, April 23.