University Schedules Staff Enrichment Day May 18

As part of its ongoing professional development component for its staff, Texas A&M International University will offer its second annual day-long Staff Enrichment Day on Friday, May 18 from 8 a.m. - 4:15 p.m.

A&M International president Charles Jennett said Staff Enrichment Day recognizes the unique talents and skills of University employees and affords all an opportunity to celebrate their diversity and grow.

"We are fortunate to have some of the most gifted and accomplished employees in the State of Texas. We want to provide them with opportunities to grow and to celebrate the diversity which they bring to the University and the communities we serve. This event will help us to enhance our strengths and address shared areas of concern," Dr. Jennett said.

Elizabeth N. Martinez, director of the Office of Human Resources, which has organized the event, said the offering is consistent with the University's goal of affording all University employees enrichment opportunities.

"Each year we offer numerous enrichment activities including lectures, workshops and special training opportunities. This day-long effort is designed to provide our employees with a series of learning opportunities that will enrich their work experience and their lives in general. While we are all committed to our University's success, we are equally committed to the success of our University employees," she explained.

The sessions will run throughout the day and will require that offices suspend normal operations in order for the event to be successful, Martinez explained.

"All offices will be closed from 8:00-9:30 a.m. with a reduced operation for the remainder of the day through 5 p.m. Offices will not be closed, but staffing will be at a minimum. We greatly appreciate the public's understanding of this important staff offering," Martinez said.

Concurrent sessions scheduled will focus on celebrating differences, email communication, phone professionalism, workplace attitudes, effective business communication, and effective time management.

Dr. Rick Rigsby, Texas A&M University award-winning professor, special assistant to football coach R.C. Slocum and Life Skills Development Coordinator for the Aggies football team, will provide the event's keynote address, "Are U Making an Impact?"

A former national TV reporter, he received his Ph.D. from the University of Oregon. He recently received the California State University, Chico Distinguished Alumni Award.

For additional information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at 326.2180, visit offices in Killam Library 268 or email to pais@tamiu.edu.

University office hours are from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu