MCCB Human Resources Newsletters 2020

NEWSLETTER MCCB HR

1st Quarter News 2020

IN THIS ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE 1 MAKE READY, AIM 1 EOQ

MAKE READY

2 BIRTHDAYS 2 NEW HIRES 2 TRIVIA 2 INTERNSHIP MESSAGE 3 LAUNCH 3 OPEN POSITIONS 4-5 WELLNESS 6 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR 8-9 NOTABLE CONGRATULATIONS 10-11 CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 12-16 EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT— WHAT’S YOUR STORY

What makes and organization ready for success?

Innovation? Efficiency? Connectivity? Engagement?

All of the above. And more.

Empower yourself and those around you. Enable and assist colleagues in collaborative efforts to find and develop creative solutions. Navigate inten- tionally.

Life-long learning and activity with a focused passion is the steering wheel of purpose.

1. Learn and use tech advancements for productivity and growth (Creating Futures Through Technology Conference - March 2-4, 2020) 2. Limit competing priorities to avoid fatigue Avoid the Shiny Object Syndrome https://www.developgoodhabits.com/shiny-object-syndrome/ 3. Track and acknowledge records of your successes and that of your team 4. Communicate effectively for better program alignment 5. Build trust through active engagement and meaningful collaboration

17 MCCB NEWS 18 GOOD EATS

EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER

AIM

1. Personalize Your Management and Interaction Style 2. Encourage Creativity 3. Guide, Motivate, Inspire, and Coach 4. Be a Role Model

Better Together

Cynthia Jiles Assistant Executive Director for Human Resources

Raul Fletes

Continued-

1

BIRTHDAYS

January \7 Melissa Readus 14 Shelika Hooker 16 Jason Carter 25 Tunga Otis 30 Vernitta Crawford 31 Renitta Cotton

March

February 4 Marilyn Gardner 5 Dr. Krista LeBrun 5 LaJuna Ivory 12 Megan Akins 13 Dr. Andrea Mayfield 15 Robin Griffith

7 Nikitna Barnes 13 Dr. Tierra Flowers 13 Jeb Stuart 17 Sherriel Rush 21 Veronica Dunning 22 Lisa Bonds 28 Cindy Goodin

MCCB NEW HIRES

TRIVIA TIME!

Farrah Appleberry

October 15

Want two free movie tickets?? Just answer these questions below. One winner will be selected at random! Answers can be found in this issue!

Renitta Cotton October 15 Vernitta Crawford October 15 Shanudra Forman October 15 Wanda Johnson October 15 Daphne Miller October 15 Shelby Gann October 16 Dr. Erin Eaton January 6 Cindy Goodin January 6 Lauren Stewart February 3

Submit your responses to HR@mccb.edu - no later than Wednes- day, February 5 — 5 pm. Drawing to be held February 7. 1. Make Ready, Aim, ________. (Fill in the blank) 2. What’s the forth option to Move More At Meetings? 3. Will you submit your spotlight story for publication? 4. List a Professional Development Session you would be interest- ed in presenting. 5. What employee did you spot in the WJTV highlight?

TRIVIA ANSWERS 4th Quarter 2019

1. 10 minutes 2. Four weeks—Online 3. October 28, 2019 4. Collaboration

INTERNSHIP PARTNERSHP

Missy Saxton

If you have not yet met Mr. Felix Fair—please stop by and make his acquaintance. (519-B) Felix will be working with us through our partnership with MDRS for the next 20+ weeks. Fe- lix will be in the office on the following dates: 8:30—12:30 every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Felix is available to offer support across the agency in various aspects. He has a wide range of experience and an interest in learning more and supporting our operations.

2

LAUNCH

 Transformative launches must be bold and rapid to succeed. The change mindset must be embedded at the core and move outward.  Business as Usual Management is not the growth model—challenge the status quo.  Think agile. Think flexible.  Build momentum with small wins—celebrate them!  Keep your focus.  Communicate early and often with everyone.  When the needle grinds—take initiative.  Engage all employees—shift your typical relationships.  Evaluate and reevaluate progress and processes.

OPEN POSITIONS - Until Filled

 Assistant Executive Director of Research and Effectiveness  Monitoring and Inventory Specialist—ECA  Technical Specialist for Finance—ECA

3

WELLNESS

Shana Hansen

Don’t you just LOVE wellness?! If you don’t then you will.

We are committed to your wellness!

Your C3 Ambassadors are working hard to meet the fitness/wellness needs of all! From the indoor wellness area to your NEW outdoor wellness area—we are certain you will find your happy place for wellness and activity.

What else do you have to look forward to? The Bike Share System .

What is Bike Share ?

This is a service in which bicycles are made available for shared use to individuals (you) on a short term basis. They will be docked on-site and available for use during C3 Wellness hours.

Bicycles are a healthy and sustainable way for employees to exercise and get around campus. Bikes offer a unique way to build exercise into a daily routine to help improve employee health – which studies have shown to reduce sick days, increase mental alertness, and im- prove decision-making. There will be eight total bicycles on our campus. Five bicycles will be located on the court- yard side of the IHL building (Bike Share docked-style) and three bicycles will be located in front of the Mississippi Library Commission (individual bikes - not part of the Bike Share docked-style system). Bicycles at both locations will be available to all R&D campus employ- ees. The C3 wellness bicycles are solar powered and the weather-sealed locks are controlled by a smartphone App. Just select a bike, and the App unlocks the bike from the docking station au- tomatically using your phone's Bluetooth. Each rider must review the C3 Bicycle Rules and have completed the C3 Wellness Waiver pri- or to bicycle use. Both forms will be required before bicycle use. If you have a pin code, and you have already signed a C3 Wellness Waiver, then you will only be required to review and sign the C3 Bicycles Rules form.

Please contact the C3 Ambassadors, Shana Hansen & Cynthia Jiles at C3Wellness@mccb.edu if you have any questions.

4

WELLNESS IN THE NEWS

The Health Fair made the news!

WJTV highlighted our annual Health Fair. Take a moment and thank your wellness coordina- tor, Shana Hansen, for her efforts and that of the Campus Wellness Committee to bring you this beneficial event every year.

Check it out! Education and Research Center Comprehensive health fair for state employees

https://www.wjtv.com/news/comprehensive-health-fair-for-state-employees/

C3 Sessions

Tai Chi and Yoga Sessions are held weekly in the Commons of JSU.

Tai Chi—Dr. Mina Li

Yoga—Jean Powers

C3 Wellness Challenges commence February 3.

Request a C3 Calendar for a full list of events and sessions and follow C3 on Facebook at C3Wellness. We would love to hear your wellness suggestions. Leave comments and suggestions at C3Wellness@mccb.edu

MCCB Wellness Days Initiative

January – December 2020 MCCB employees who visit their physicians for an annual wellness check will be given the option to take personal leave or to work off-site the remainder of the day of the visit. Employ- ees must immediately submit documentation of the annual visit to Human Resources in order to participate in the provided option. February 2020 – January 2021 In addition, MCCB employees are provided 5 EAP visits per year. February 1 will begin the new period for 2020. MCCB employees who visit EAP will be provided the option to take per- sonal leave or to work off-site the remainder of the day of the visit. Employees must immedi- ately submit documentation of the EAP visit to Human Resources in order to participate in the provided option.

5

HOW TO MOVE MORE IN MEETINGS (WITHOUT FEELING AWKWARD)

Even if you can’t stand up and walk around the room, there are a few things you can do to be more active during meetings—without disrupting others.

1. Stretch your neck Simple stretches can help you feel more energized without causing a big distraction. 2. Squeeze those glutes Squeeze for 5 seconds, then release for 2 seconds. Repeat until muscles in your rear end are tired or the meeting has concluded. 3. Walk it out Leading the meeting? Have attendees stand up and walk around the table clockwise and counter clockwise for 1 minute each 4. Tap your toes Quietly tap your toes on the ground, alternating feet. These movements will engage your shins and calves. 5. Lift your heels Sit up in your chair and pull your abs in, keeping your toes on the floor, slowly lift your right heel and tighten your calf muscle. Release your heel back to the floor, then perform the move with your left heel. Do 15 reps on each side, rest 30 seconds, and repeat. 6. Carve your core Sit up straight in your chair and engage your abs to perform isometric contractions. Without holding your breath, tightly contract your abs and hold for 5 seconds, release and repeat for 5 minutes.

Fitbit Health Solutions The Definitive Guide to Staying Active At Work

6

CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Krystal Thurman

Developing Your Professional Portfolio

Dr. Kim Jones and Dr. LaToya Sterling presented an informative session about preparing our professional portfolios. I know I personally benefited from the discussion! For those unable to attend the session, please request the handouts for the information provided by Drs. Jones and Sterling. Links to the videos shown during the presentation can be found on the handouts.

Stay tuned for details about our upcoming PD sessions.

Scheduled PD Safety

February

TBD TBD TBD

Implicit Bias Training

March

Applied Behavior Analysis

April

CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT - ONLINE TRAINING and PD

Request for Instructors Submit proposals to Dr. Krystal Thurman

7

GREAT APPLES

JAZZ THE SNAZZ: Words Matter (Adventures of Jazz Book 1) by LATOYA REMBERT STERLING Ph.D. | Sold by: Amazon Digital Services LLC

Dr. Sterling wrote Jazz the Snazz to be an easy read for children who are faced with real life issues. Additionally, the book was written to encourage Sterling’s daughter, Miyah, the books illustrator. This is an opportunity for Miyah to embrace and show- case her artistic gift. This first issue of Jazz is centered around bullying. In penning this book, Dr. Sterling’s hope is to address the issue of bullying and spread love, peace, and hope to those impacted by this crisis. Look out for Jazz the Snazz book two coming soon.

Available on Amazon Follow on Instagram Jazz_thesnazz.

Jazz The Snazz will also be featured at the SMMEIIS 2nd Annual Liter- ary Festival and Book Fair on Saturday, February 1. The event will be held at the Holmes Student Union of Southwest Community College.

CONGRATULATIONS!

Mrs. Veronica Dunning— Recipient of the Bill Pope Property Award at the 2019 MAGPPA Conference. This award is given annu- ally to the outstanding Property Officer for the State of Mississippi.

8

CONGRATULATIONS!

Dr. Rachel DeVaughan is currently serving the Interim Executive Director of the State Workforce Investment Board

Check out the MCCB FLICKER link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/147556248@N02/albums/with/72157710989533543

Mark Jenkins

9

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS Random Acts of Kindness

Dr. Sheriece Robinson

Fostering a culture of kindness embodies the well-being of individuals in the workplace. When acts of kind- ness are displayed, it positively impacts the work environment and it leaves a lasting impression on an indi- vidual’s experience, performance, and attitude. Nurturing a compassionate community creates a sense of belonging and provides inclusivity in the workplace. Organizations such as the Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Foundation invests and endorses making kindness the norm. Their foundational framework is de- signed to inspire, empower, act, reflect, and share. In an effort to support their framework, the Foundation is promoting RAK Day and RAK Week during the month of February. Over the years, the observance of Random Act of Kindness Day has grown in popularity. This year, February 17 th is set aside to commemorate this day which is designed to kick-off a week-long celebration of kindness by exhibiting compassionate gestures. This year’s RAK Week is observed on February 16-23. Let us join the RAK movement and show kindness daily.

Below are some random acts of kindness that can be displayed in the workplace.

     

 Congratulate others on their accomplishments  Attend MCCB activities/events (i.e. Social Com- mittee, Professional Development, etc.)  Encourage others  Support MCCB’s Community Service and C3 Well- ness initiatives  Leave positive comments on divisional and/or individuals social media platforms  Share inspirational quotes and positive thoughts  Share recipes/books  Give candy grams  Be fair and be kind to everyone  Avoid being hurtful-think before you respond  Volunteer  Leave money in the vending machine for the next person

Make someone laugh Make a pot of coffee

Say please, thank you, and have a great day

Tell someone you appreciate them

Take time to meet and listen to others

Ask someone how they are doing

 Send an e-card or a GIF (graphics interchange format)  Leave a handwritten note in someone’s box  Create a culture of support  Assist someone with a project  Make a video to cheer someone up, to inspire someone, etc.  Share your mid-morning/afternoon snack  Create a compliment box and read the compli- ments at your staff meeting  Collaborate with others  Fill the candy jar on someone’s desk  Invite someone to lunch

For more information about the RAK Foundation go to: https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/about-us

10

Love in the Workplace

Dr. Krystal Thurman

With Valentine’s Day on the horizon, it’s time to think about love in the workplace. No, not that kind of love - agape love. At the Ignite Leadership Conference in Tupelo, MS, Ron Kitchens, CEO/ President of Southwest Michigan First, spoke about agape love and its powerful positive impact on the workplace environment. Working simply for a paycheck is thought to be a way of the past. In- stead, employees today seek more meaning and fulfillment from their work. As Stefano Tasselli ar- gues in this recent Forbes article, technology has stunted our awareness of the importance for “personal connections, compassion, and even love at work.” Love is key for motivating one’s staff. With all of this talk about love, let’s step back and review three types of love. First, eros is consid- ered passionate love and is what society associates with romantic love. The second type of love is philia , which in Aristotle's Nicomachean Ethics is usually translated as friendship or affection. Tasselli describes this love as one built on trust and one that results in emotional bonds that can promote loyalty. Finally, the third type of love, and the focus of this article, is agape . Agape , which means compassion for humankind, is often considered the greatest of all loves for its unconditional and pure qualities. Leaders who display agape love are willing to show compassion, concern, and emotion towards their employees. This approach also extends to colleagues displaying the same behaviors to one another. Agape is a major motivator in the workplace and can be integral for the positive functioning of an or- ganization. Kitchens encouraged business leaders and managers to take the time each week to share verbal and written appreciation. He argued that expressing one’s appreciation to another is a huge endorphin release and critical motivator. Kitchens stated that four of the post powerful words that can be likened to fuel for any leader or organization are, “I believe in you.” As you spend time making Valentine’s Day plans, why not consider how to embrace agape love at work? What can you do to motivate others? What can you do to grow and develop stronger rela- tionships with others? Write a note of appreciation to someone. Journal something you are thank- ful for at work and verbally share that with someone. Show compassion and understanding when possible. In the famous, wise words of the Beatles – all you need is love, love is all you need!

Sources:

Kitchens, R. (2019, January). Leadership Talk. Ignite Leadership . Talk presented at 2020 Ignite Leadership conference, Tupelo, MS. Tasselli, S. (2019). The Biggest Motivator at Work? Love. Forbes . Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/ sites/rsmdiscovery/2019/07/16/the-biggest-motivator-at-work-love/#6b90c2a66d9c .

11

WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Dr. Andrea Mayfield (Part 1—Re-release First published July 2018)

There is nothing one cannot do! I believe life is what you make of it. There are many things I can tell you about my life. Some are laden with tragedy, loss and adversity. Most are laden with my spirit for adventure. In all, my essence is one of determination and bold ad- venture. Education has always had a special place in my heart as a result of my own experiences growing up. I grew up in a traditional 1960’s family atmosphere with a mother and father married for 50+ years, and 3 brothers. Growing up in a small southern college town, I spent my time reading and finding ways to create my own adventures. As I write this article, I see vivid images of events in my life. My 8 th birthday party where the fun activity was to cut down the neighbors swing and slide down the red dirt banks to the creek. Thinking about it today, I am sure the mothers didn’t anticipate muddy children after my party. The neighbor game me the tire swing (I cut down) when they moved and it hangs today in my parent’s yard. As a young child, I frequently argued with my brothers in back seat of my parent’s sta- tion wagon. At one point during our arguments, my father threatened to put me out of the car as we traveled down I-20. I said “fine”. He pulled over. I got out and started walking. I was told my mother screamed at my father to go back and get me.

12

Re—Release Dr. Andrea Mayfield

At 5, my trusty bicycle took me on some really fun adventures until a neighbor saw me crossing a bridge as I rode out of town. I didn’t have my bicycle for a while. Walking home from the bus stop, I made a habit of admiring the wildlife. I put snakes in my lunch box and quite regularly would throw rocks at a mass swarm of bees hanging from the tree limb and then run. I suppose I thought I could run faster than the bees could fly. Growing up playing football with neighborhood boys after school in the grass lot close to my home, I decided it was time for my career in football to begin. In the 8 th grade I went out for spring training for the football team. I stayed after school to practice and lift weights…until my mother found out. Every time I thought about running away from home…my idyllic life that I didn’t know I had…my big plan was to pack some things and go live in the woods behind the house. I spent a lot of time in the woods and loved the quiet solitude I found there. Today I feel most “at home” in the deep woods…day or night. I attended Marion Military Institute for my high school years. As a Ranger, I had oppor- tunities to engage in the fun I relished. Operation exercises in the swamp and hiding in a bea- ver den to evade the opposition to win the game was a thrill. I took opportunities to pick up “trophies” to leave in the shower of the barracks. Let’s just say, my roommate was not thrilled. That summer, I had an opportunity to canoe the boundary waters. Spending two weeks in the remote wilderness living on lake water and MREs was a blast. The highlight came when we failed to hang the fish oil in the tree before going to bed. I woke to someone outside the tent grabbing my leg. After repeatedly telling whoever was doing it to “STOP”, I left the tent and discovered a bear. I grabbed a heavy branch and whopped the bear on the butt. It ran into the woods behind the tent. I followed to see what the bear was “doing”. That bear was sprawled out on his belly licking pudding that SOMEONE on this team dumped out. I thought the bear looked so cute I wanted to pet him. Let’s just say that didn’t happen. In college, the university always had a spring concert. This particular year, Bad Compa- ny came to perform. I volunteered to be a part of the “roadie” crew. During the concert, I was charged with posting on top of a scaffold 40 feet up with lights and a headset. My job was to take direction and spotlight the performers on stage by cue. It was one of the hardest jobs. I thought it was cool to eat dinner with the band and introduce my baby brother to his rock star idol. Because this article is not supposed to be lengthy, I am skipping 98% of my adventures. Continued -

13

Re—Release Dr. Andrea Mayfield (continued)

While teaching the sciences at the community college where I was employed, I had some adventures outside the classroom. As a 4th grader, I sustained a broken bones from rid- ing a unbroken horse bareback. After my college class, I decided to ask the locals if I might ride their horses…knowing I hadn’t been on a horse since 4th grade. The local horse owner said he had a great barrel racing horse and wanted to know if I could ride. My response tongue in cheek was, “of course I can”. Well I mounted the horse and gave commands to have him pick up speed and gallop as fast as he could. I hung on for dear life…until the horse made a 90 degree turn. I hobbled for 2 months trying to heal. I was lucky! I brushed myself off, hobbled to the horse, managed to mount and took him HOME. My husband George and I enjoyed the outdoors each and every day through the com- mercial hunting operation we owned and operated called The Roost. I met many people from all over the world and felt quite proud when we went to an outdoor expedition in the city and people recognized me….not him. This was before “Lee and Tiffany”. I had a show that aired on the Outdoor Channel before it was cool. Whitetail 101- Bushnell Outdoors hosted by Dave Watson. The focus was the Biology of Deer and the field application by understanding the animal. Camera crews would regularly come to The Roost to film. When one of the camera crew got poison oak in his eyes, I became the ad hoc cameraman. A rainy hunt 40 plus feet in the air hanging off of a “platform stand” the size of a dinner plate, was no easy feat. Add concentration and camera work to boot and what a RUSH! Other than my hunting, the biggest rush…most exhilarating burst…was experienced during my days as a pilot. Yep, I said it. I flew Cessna and Piper aircrafts for fun after teaching at the college. It was common for me to finish teaching Friday, drive to the local air strip (airport) and fly to MO to hunt for the weekend with George. Bag a turkey and fly back Sun- day in time for work. For me, connections to adventure, to nature, to people, to common goals and inter- ests…have value. Perspectives differ among people and those who have felt the rush of exhil- aration mixed with fear, heard a turkey gobble in the spring, seen a flush of a wild covey of birds or witnessed a 10-point buck chase a doe understand my essence, my determination to live life as an extended ADVENTURE.

AM

14

Part 2—WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Dr. Andrea Mayfield

With a love for adventure it is not surprising that my face was crammed between the pages of a book for most of the day and night when I wasn’t creating my own excitement in the physical world. Reading was my escape, an adventure between the pages, which allowed me to experience the remarkable from the comfort of my bedroom. Early on, I rarely pon- dered the impact that reading had on my personality, my life choices, and on my career path. Every Birthday, and Christmas wish included a list of books. My love for the story, the lesson, began very early in life and prevails today, fifty years later. When I think about my long relationship with pages filled with adventure, life lessons, and raw emotions, I can’t help but wonder if reading recreationally is all but extinct. Reading for the sheer joy of adventure, of mystery, of learning, doesn’t seem to exist in the lives of young people at the same level present 30 years ago. As a foundation for my success, I can easily discern an avid reader from someone who doesn’t enjoy reading based on the level of insight, analytical thinking and creativity one exhibits. For me, stories were my entertain- ment, my counselor, and my teacher. Written words strung together gave meaning to my life in ways that cannot be quantified. Reading and comprehension fueled my drive to learn, to experience, and to understand. It is for this reason, I attribute my success to my love of read- ing. Learning to embrace change, confront challenges analytically, and interact with people on multiple levels has been critical to both my personal and professional growth. It is this growth that fueled learning, and this learning served to catapult my career. Every role I have ever lived, has allowed me to grow, learn to embrace change and confront challenges. With fifty-two years of adventure, lessons learned and unique experiences, I could author a library. Continued -

15

Part 2—WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

Dr. Andrea Mayfield

My professional story would certainly focus on various approaches to change and the courage needed to face specific challenges navigating the circumstances of life. Having served in every role in the community college, from faculty to president and beyond, I have experi- enced situations and circumstances that have brought joy, anger, disappointment, fear, and even disbelief. Unequivocally, the most challenging of circumstances are those which involve personnel. When you care about people and want them to achieve their maximum potential, the decisions that you make have a lasting impact. While people bring us joy, people also bring us sadness, disappointment and feelings of betrayal. As a recent example, an employee inserted themselves into a legal matter and intentionally took actions which sabotaged the integrity of the case. Circumstances like this, often leave the employer and other employees with an overwhelming feeling of betrayal, and disappointment. When trust has been broken in the workplace, significant challenges are the result. The employer faces the challenge of navigating next steps to investigate and address the breech of trust. While people are human, and subject to mistakes, intent defines how one feels about it and “intent” can provide direction for moving forward. I have read thousands of books which have a story line focused on expectation, loyalty, deception, and betrayal. Fiction catapults the reader into unexpected circumstances, it facilitates navigation through the emotions evoked by the situation, and guides the reader through the reflection needed to act. Just as charac- ters and their circumstances define the narrative of the book, agency personnel defines the culture and direction of the organization. My love of reading has provided opportunities to hone my skills and to broaden my perspective to address complex situations. My story will for- ever be intertwined with my love of reading. AM

16

17

MCCB NEWS—UPCOMING EVENTS

1. February 3—C3 Challenges Kick off 2. February 16-23—Random Acts of Kindness Week and Challenges 3. February 17— State offices closed (State Holiday) 4. February 20—CTE Conference/ADA Meeting (Philadelphia, MS)

5. March 1-4— Creating Futures Through Technology Conference (Biloxi, MS) 6. March 19— C3 Wellness Professional Development—”Nutrition with Bronwyn” Location—MPB Auditorium (12-1) [Bring Your Lunch] 7. April 8—PTK All Mississippi

WHAT’S YOUR 20—for 2020? - A Motivation for Self-Efficacy

1. What are your first thoughts about the past year? 2. What goals have you achieved? Not achieved? 3. What were your biggest challenges and insights? 4. What of your top personal strengths were used last year? 5. How have you changed? 6. Short term goals forward—Where do you see yourself June 1, 2020? 7. Will December 1, 2020 mirror 2019—what will have changed in a year—what should have occurred by the end of 2020? 8. How can you improve 2020?

18

GOOD EATS—QUICK SNACK BITES

Instructions

Servings: 16 cups

16 cups popped popcorn (about ½ cup unpopped ker-

1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line two large baking sheets with

nels), 1 cup salted butter, 1 cup packed light brown

parchment paper; set aside.

sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, 2 tablespoons molas-

2. Pour popped popcorn into an extra large bowl.In a medi-

ses, 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice,1 teaspoon pure

um saucepan over medium-high heat, combine butter,

vanilla extract, 1/4 teaspoon baking soda, 3/4 cup

brown sugar, corn syrup, molasses and pumpkin pie spice.

chopped pecans, optional1 1/2 cups Ghirardelli Dark

3. Bring mixture to a boil. Boil for 4 minutes without stirring.

Melting Wafers

4. Remove pan from heat and stir in vanilla and baking so-

da. mmediately pour caramel sauce over the popcorn and

stir to evenly coat the popcorn. If desired, stir in pecans.

5. Pour caramel corn onto prepared baking sheets and

spread into an even layer with a rubber spatula.

6. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes, stirring every 10

minutes.

7. Allow caramel corn to cool completely. Melt Ghirardelli

Dark Melting Wafers according to package directions and

drizzle candy coating over cooled caramel corn.

8. Allow candy coating to set and break caramel corn into

pieces before serving.

HR@MCCB.EDU

Topics: Employment Regulations, Employment Policies, SMARTSHEETS, FMLA, Workers Compensation, Professional Development, etc.

19

WHAT’S YOUR STORY

YOUR STORY SHOULD BE HERE! Tell us about your interests, hobbies, and events we can support. We want to know you a bit better.

20

NEWSLETTER MCCB HR

IN THIS ISSUE

2nd Quarter News 2020

IN THIS ISSUE 1 MESSAGE FROM HR 1 EOQ 2 BIRTHDAYS 2 TRIVIA 2 INTERNSHIP MESSAGE 3 NEW HIRES 3 OPEN POSITIONS 4-5 WELLNESS 6-7 CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT 8-9 NOTABLE CONGRATULATIONS 10-12 CONTRIBUTING EDITOR 13 GOOD EATS

MESSAGE FROM HR

Difficulties and changes are an inevitable part of daily life. How we deal with issues and these changes has a significant role in in the situational dynamics and outcomes.

Resilience is your ability to use your skills and strengths to cope and recover from both perceived and actual problems.

Resilience pivots all situations into learning experiences— opportunities to grow, opportunities to challenge what we thought we knew about our limitations, opportunities to clear out the restraints of fear.

Resilience won’t eliminate difficulties or mental challenges, but it will fortify you to remain strong and move forward.

EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER

WE ARE RESILIENT

MCCB ORGANIZATONAL RESTRUCTURING

“I appreciate the work of this agency team. I am confident the agency reporting changes, and plans moving forward to work col- laboratively across the agency, will lend strength to the team and allow us build capacity as we continue to build momentum.”

Dr. Andrea Mayfield

Davita Weary

1

BIRTHDAYS

April

June

May

2 Shana Hansen 15 Krystal Adcock 15 Selena Phillips 19 Tina Bradley 19 Jevelyn Smith 26 Davita Weary 30 LaTasha Banks

5 Mark Jenkins 5 Kenecha Brooks-Smith 8 Katelynn Bowman 18 Kell Smith 20 Audra Kimble

16 Steven Martin 28 Dr. Sheriece Robinson 30 Sandy Crist 31 Lauren Stewart

TRIVIA TIME!

Want two free movie tickets?? Just answer these questions below. One winner will be selected at random! Answers can be found in this issue!

Submit your responses to HR@mccb.edu - no later than Wednesday, May 6 — 5 pm. Drawing to be held May 7.

1. What is the suggested social distancing measurement? 2. What is the name of the MCCB intern? 3. Will you submit your spotlight story for publication? 4. Are you practicing social distancing consistently? 5. Which staff member is retiring?

TRIVIA ANSWERS 1st Quarter 2020

1. Launch 2. Tap your toes

3. Varies 4. Varies

INTERNSHIP PARTNERSHP

Missy Saxton

MCCB has the pleasure of hosting Dr. Scott Bailey as latest MDRS intern. Dr. Bailey has been such an asset. Let’s put these talents to further use. Contact us for any additional assistance Dr. Bailey can provide to your division.

2

MCCB NEW HIRES

MCCB Bids Adieu

March Jamie Anderson LaTasha Banks Pamela Black Dr. Tisha Bogan Emerald Bolls

With mixed emotions (happiness and sadness to see you go), MCCB bids adieu to both Marilyn Gardner and Raul Fletes. Marilyn, this is a whole new and exciting opportunity for you. We still can’t believe you are leaving us. Thank you so much for the many years of service and dedication to the community college sys- tem. Good luck out there and keep in touch! Raul, your contributions to this agency have been immense. We hope that retirement life is just as rewarding for you and those you impact. We are seriously going to miss the both of you here. Best in your new endeavors and the never-ending adventures of life!

Patrice Carr Tiara Foster Dr. LaRicky Robinson-Harris

Crystal Moody Michael Mozee Selena Phillips Lakita Scott Tessa Tyes April Dr. Angela Payne

Dr. Andrea Mayfield and Your MCCB Family

OPEN POSITIONS - Until Filled

 Program Specialist for Accountability and Athletics  Monitoring and Inventory Specialist—ECA  Technical Specialist for Finance—ECA

3

WELLNESS

Cynthia Jiles

A special THANK YOU!! -to Missy Saxton for all of the hard work you have done in sewing masks for mem- bers of the staff and the emergency care workers. Your have truly made the staff feel safer!

C3 Events and Sessions In-person Sessions

Out of an abundance of caution, in-person sessions have been suspended.

The Ambassadors will continue to send motivational emails and respond to feedback.

To Your Best Health, C3 Ambassadors

4

MCCB Wellness Days Initiative

January – December 2020 MCCB employees who visit their physicians for an annual wellness check will be given the op- tion to take personal leave or to work off-site the remainder of the day of the visit. Employ- ees must immediately submit documentation of the annual visit to Human Resources in order to participate in the provided option. February 2020 – January 2021 In addition, MCCB employees are provided 5 EAP visits per year. February 1 will begin the new period for 2020. MCCB employees who visit EAP will be provided the option to take per- sonal leave or to work off-site the remainder of the day of the visit. Employees must immedi- ately submit documentation of the EAP visit to Human Resources in order to participate in the provided option.

5

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT - ONLINE TRAINING and PD

Request for Instructors - Highlight your talents—develop an instructional Canvas course.

Submit proposals to Dr. Krystal Thurman Kthurman@mccb.edu

6

CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Dr. Krystal Thurman

The upcoming PD schedule is in the works – to be released soon.

7

CONGRATULATIONS!

Please help me congratulate Dr. Latoya Sterling on receiving her Administrative Educator License. Dr. Sterling’s K12 curriculum experience, administrative back- ground, and license will enhance MCCB’s work with the MS Department of Edu- cation and the Research and Curriculum Unit. Congratulations Dr. Sterling!

GREAT APPLES

MCCLA 2020-2021 Class Participants

Sandy Crist

Jim Miller

Check out the MCCB FLICKER link: https://www.flickr.com/photos/147556248@N02/albums/with/72157710989533543

Mark Jenkins

8

CONGRATULATIONS!

Congratulations to the 2019-2020 MCCLA graduates!

Dr. Kimberly Jones Dr. LaToya Sterling

9

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS Preparedness and Response to COVID-19

Dr. Sheriece Robinson

The coronavirus (COVID-19) quickly changed our lives resulting in MCCB taking proactive measures to maintain productivity to work remote. On March 14, 2020, Governor Tate Reeves declared a State of Emergency due to COVID-19 ( Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, 2020b). A statewide Shelter-In-Place Order was later signed by Governor Reeves in an effort to slow the spread of the virus and to protect the health of all Mississippians (Mississippi Emergency Manage- ment Agency, 2020a). This order began on April 3, 2020 at 5:00pm and was set to end on April 20, 2020 at 8:00am ( Carlisle , 2020). As a result of this fluid situation, Governor Reeves extended the or- der an additional seven days ( Carlisle , 2020). In an effort to continue to flatten the curve, Governor Reeves signed an executive order that shifted the state to a Safer-At-Home mandate (Harris, 2020). This new order is expected to expire on May 11, 2020 at 8:00am (Harris 2020). Prior to Governor Reeves issuing the executive orders, MCCB was taking steps to develop an a ction plan to implement procedures that would provide continued service to our constituents. Before we began working remotely, a telework agreement was provided by Cynthia Jiles to ensure the agency’s priorities, goals, and operations would be sustained. We also had to email Veronica Dunning the appropriate form which identified items and equipment that would be off-site during this global crisis. To protect our health and safety, Sherriel Rush placed gloves and masks outside her office door for us to retrieve. The IT Division enabled a Multi-Factor Authentication in an effort to add perimeters for security to our emails. Dr. Andrea Mayfield also emailed expectations and guidelines for preparing to work remote during the pandemic.

10

Love in the Workplace

Dr. Krystal Thurman

Beginning March 17, 2020, Dr. Mayfield implemented the remote/telework provision. This provision was set to expire on March 30, 2020 but it had to be extended. In spite of this pandemic, Dr. May- field continues to provide us with updates on pertinent information regarding resources, legislation, community colleges, press conferences, and other subject matters. To assist with the agency’s work- flow, virtual activities are conducted by the appropriate division which include but are not limited to:  2/27/20- Coronavirus (COVID-19) Conference Call ( Dr. Paul Byers of the MS Department of Health)  4/2/20- Maintaining Wellness During COVID-19 Webinar (Bronwyn Robertson)  4/8/20- Staff Meeting (Dr. Andrea Mayfield)  4/14/20- Sew What! An MCCB PD (Missy Saxton & Dr. Kimberly Jones)  Providing wellness information and resources  Sharing best practices and resources regarding economic relief provisions, working remote, using Zoom, following safety measures to avoid Zoom Bombing , Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19): Pro- tecting the Public from the Current Outbreak webinar hosted by Emory University , ways to help children/students during COVID-19, etc.  Providing mental health resources  Presenting professional development opportunities

 Providing Early Childhood Academy resources and support for children and families  Keeping staff abreast with updates from other state agencies and professional organizations

 Offering CANVAS training for teachers

Creating tutorials for ZOOM



 Implementing a videoconference platform to host meetings

Continued -

11

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS Preparedness and Response to COVID-19 (continued)

Dr. Sheriece Robinson

To ensure safety, Missy Saxton and Dr. Kimberly Jones made masks for staff members, frontline workers, and others in the community that needed them. Due to the availability of essential sup- plies, several staff members offered to share their personal supplies with other staff members that were in need. In light of this global crisis, MCCB continues to collaborate and serve as a resource to colleges, com- munities, and other constituents. As always, we embrace our motto Better Together to fulfill our mission by advancing “the community college system through coordination, support, leadership, and advocacy” (Mississippi Community College Board, 2019).

Sources:

Carlisle, Zac (2020). Gov. Tate Reeves extends stay-at-home order another week. Retrieved from https://www.wtva.com/content/news/Gov-Tate-Reeves-extends-stay-at-home-order-another-week-- 569725501.html. Harris, Gerald (2020). Gov. Tate Reeves signs safer-at-home order for Mississippi. Retrieved from https://www.wjtv.com/health/coronavirus/gov-tate-reeves-to-announce-next-steps-in-reopening- mississippi/.

Mississippi Community College Board (2019). Vision, mission, and core values. Retrieved from https://www.mccb.edu/vision-mission-values.

Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (2020a). Governor Reeves issues a statewide shel- ter-in-place order. Retrieved from https://www.msema.org/news/governor-reeves-issues-a- statewide-shelter-in-place-order/. Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (2020b). Governor Reeves declares state of emer- gency due to covid-19. Retrieved from https://www.msema.org/news/governor-reeves-declares- state-of-emergency-due-to-covid-19/.

Newsletter Contributors Sought: Freelance Articles Suggested Reading Lists What’s Your Story

12

GOOD EATS—QUICK SNACK BITES—PITA BREAD PIZZA

Instructions

Servings: 1 Pizza Time: 10 minutes

 Brush on a little olive oil on the pita.  Spread sauce on top of the pita.  Sprinkle on the shredded cheese.  Sprinkle on pinches of desired herbs and spices, and add any toppings you'd like.  Place on baking sheet, bake for 5-7 minutes at 400°, or until cheese is melted (times may vary).

1 pita bread



 2 tablespoons of spaghetti sauce or 2 ta- blespoons of pizza sauce  1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded  Spices (oregano, basil, garlic powder) or dried herbs (oregano, basil, garlic powder)  Olive oil (optional)

Slice with pizza cutter and enjoy!

HR@MCCB.EDU

Topics: Employment Regulations, Employment Policies, SMARTSHEETS, FMLA, Workers Compensation, Professional Development, etc.

13

LIFE IS COLORFUL— WHAT’S YOUR STORY?

YOUR STORY SHOULD BE HERE! Tell us about your interests, hobbies, and events we can support. We want to know you a bit better.

14

NEWSLETTER Human Resources

3rd Quarter 2020

IN THIS ISSUE

WHAT LIES AHEAD

A message from Cynthia Jiles, Assistant Executive Director, Human Resources

MESSAGE FROM HUMAN RESOURCES

C haos breeds necessity which in turn breeds opportunity — as better stated by Sun Tzu, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity.” Coronavirus has changed the way we work, the way we shop, the way we play, the way we interact, and the way we plan our futures. Our challenge is to successfully pivot the negative impact of current circum- stances toward community, regional, and global opportunities. What are you open to? Since March 2020, our society has battled “this invisible enemy.” And as you know, strategy is a huge element in mastering any battle. What you may not realize is that you have strategized your interactions most every day since the onset of this pandemic. Now pivot. What have you changed, improved, and learned? Opportunity can assume many forms. Take those, even the most minute, and strategize on how you and those around you can benefit from what you have learned. We each have something to offer from our varied life experiences. Life is less uncertain when you grab hold of your ability to recover. And know that each new second, minute, hour and day is opportunity to do something different. What lies ahead is a resilient you—that person who will encourage, motivate, and inspire others.

MCCB AND COVID-19

EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER

NEW HIRE WELCOME

OPEN POSITIONS

POLICY UPDATES AND REMINDERS

BENEFITS MESSAGE

CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

WELLNESS

NEWSLETTER CONTRIBUTORS

STAFF BIRTHDAYS

TRIVIA TIME!

GOOD EATS

Welcome to the Mississippi Community College Board’s Human Resources news- letter. The goal of our newsletter is to provide staff with news and information about MCCB policy updates, Human Resources’ programs, and agency events. The newsletter is emailed to staff on a quarterly basis.

We are here for you!

1

MCCB COVID-19 Response

T o ensure a reasonably safe and healthy workplace, MCCB has developed the Pandemic Return to Work Policy. This policy/plan outlines the manner in which MCCB is acting proactively and responsively to the impact of COVID-19. Dr. Andrea Mayfield has secured additional CARES funding to amp up our ability to maintain a rea- sonably safe office environment by providing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). These funds will also allow MCCB to purchase equipment for more efficient remote work and continuity of operations.

Return to Work – At a Glance

Starting the day

Perform a self-check (temperature/symptom check) prior to leaving home Do not come to the office if you are showing symptoms and/or have a temperature of 100.4 F – contact your physician Do not come to the office sick with or without a fever Complete your Daily Log entry for contact tracing purposes Wear your mask/PPE In the office Enter the building at staggered times Mask/PPEs are mandatory in all common areas (hallways, elevators, restrooms, breakrooms, copier rooms, etc.) Limit elevator capacity Visit the sanitization counter to sterilize hands after touching common surfaces Practice frequent and thorough hand washing

Cover coughs and sneezes Keep your office door closed Do not visit co-workers Avoid using the offices, phones, supplies or equipment of other employees

Internal meetings

Practice social distancing Remain 6 feet apart Limit room capacity Zoom participants Practice social distancing Wear your mask/PPE Remain 6 feet apart Limit room capacity

External meetings

Visitors

Inform visitors that mask/PPEs are mandatory in all common areas (areas listed above) MCCB staff must receipt, log, and take the temperature of all visitors Complete the MCCB Visitor Log – for contact tracing purposes

Visitors must be escorted to the meeting location Visitors cannot visit additional staff during the visit No children are allowed (at this time)

Ending the day

Put on your mask/PPE Place your trash receptacle in the hallway Limit elevator capacity Leave the building at staggered times Clean your mask/PPE

2

Social distancing is vital to stop the spread of COVID-19. Maintain a 6-ft distance between yourself and others.

Wear a mask or face covering. This will reduce the risk of transmitting COVID-19.

Be aware that most infected people are asymptomatic and fully capable of spreading COVID-19.

Set the example and remind others (politely) to remain vigilant in the fight against the spread of COVID-19.

3

HUMAN RESOURCES for YOU

Visit the HR and Professional Development website pages often to:

Download and Print Forms



Review available benefits



Review MCCB policies



 Review informative Training Sessions opportunities

_______________________________________________________________________________________

Employee Relations:

Recognition Program—Employee of the Quarter Award

Recognition helps employees understand that their contributions are noticed and valued. This particular award is bestowed by your peers. This is a great way to encourage your colleagues and motivate every- one to continue this great work!

Please make time to participate—your vote counts!

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Congratulations Jacob!

EMPLOYEE OF THE QUARTER Jacob Goodwin

We appreciate the effort and time you put into your job. You display a great enthusiasm for your contributions to our team efforts. Jacob’s nominators describe him as “a positive person with a commitment to quality. Jacob is always ready with a smile and a willing attitude to do more in the advancement of our great community college system.” Jacob recently celebrated his 3-year work anniversary with MCCB in April 2020.

We thank you for you service.

Dr. Andrea Mayfield

“Life is about making an impact…”

4

NEW HIRE

Yolanda Brown Office: 632 Email: ybrown@mccb.edu Phone: 601-432-6295

Yolanda will be assisting in all aspects of Accountability support and de- velopment with an emphasis on Athletics. Yolanda brings with her a plethora of experience from head women’s volleyball coach at Dillard University to recreation management for the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission.

Please help me welcome Yolanda to the team!

_________________________________________________________________________________________

OPEN POSITIONS

Professional Development Specialist for eLearning

Instructional Design Specialist for eLearning

ECA Coach and Professional Development Specialist

The Mississippi Community College Board is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability or veteran status.

_________________________________________________________________________________________

5