UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 04.08.22

Dear Team:

Each new season includes beginnings and ending, and maybe even more so when you work in a field whose calendar is as cyclical as that of higher education. Commencement is probably a university’s most significant ending (and beginning) in the spring, but there often are many personnel changes made or in progress this time of year, too—maybe even more so in 2022 with our nation’s current employment climate. University of Illinois advancement programs are certainly not immune to staff changes. We’ve said farewell to several individuals, welcomed others, and there are still many positions to be filled.

Human capital is our most precious resource, so it is critical to take the time to get it right when we hire new talent. To select employees who will be most successful in our organization, we should share our culture code and core values with candidates. Our DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging) strategies are also essential to discuss. And while it may seem like these directives apply only to those doing the hiring, that is not the case. We all need to live our culture and values so that the Foundation and our universities will be great places to work for those who are already here and attract the best candidates when there is an opening.

Assimilating our culture code is an ongoing process, but I urge you to take ownership of our values and do something specific to advance them. Get on board, and then instead of saying “We will,” you can say “We are” or “I did,” all of which will make the Foundation and our universities the best they can be, and their work more fulfilling for current and future employees.

I wish you all a fulfilling weekend and spring weather that is not too cold or wet to enjoy while we are away from our offices.

Cheers,

Jim