Smeal Update: June 12, 2021

Smeal event scheduling open for fall 2021

The RIIT Group is currently processing departmental event requests for the fall. Based on updates and/or guidelines from the University, it may have restrictions or new policies to announce once we get closer to the start of the fall semester. We will make adjustments accordingly. The RIIT Group is not processing requests from student organizations at this time. If you are planning events for the fall and have not already requested space, proceed with your requests in 25Live, as you would have prior to the pandemic. If you have any questions, call (814) 865-0366 or email ServiceDesk@smeal.psu.edu.

Business Building fourth-floor bridge closed

The fourth-floor bridge in the Business Building will be closed for approximately four weeks. A crew is applying new fire retardant and paint to the steel structure. With the overhead work taking place, access needs to be restricted to only the crew. Construction fencing is arrayed at either end of the bridge. You are asked to avoid crossing the bridge, even if workers have finished for the day. All elevators and stairwells will remain accessible during the closure.

Unique collaboration helps Smeal lead in supply chain curriculum

A unique partnership between the Department of Supply Chain and Information Systems (SC&IS) and the Center for Supply Chain Research® (CSCR®) corporate sponsors is designed to make sure Smeal maintains its leadership position in both undergraduate and graduate supply chain education. Read the story.

Performance review cycle ends June 30

End-of-year performance reviews for staff must be completed by June 30. Employees should have completed their self-evaluation. Managers should now be completing the manager evaluation. On June 30, Workday will close for this review cycle. After June 30, it will not be possible to enter evaluation comments or overall ratings in Workday. For more information, see the Penn State Human Resources website (Final Goal Review). Anyone with questions should reach out to HR Services at 814-865-1473.

Thank you for helping with the Compensation Modernization Initiative

Thank you to all staff and supervisors who completed their JRW for the Compensation Modernization Initiative. Your efforts will help Penn State to understand your role to help provide you with more support as well as to help Penn State make appropriate decisions on salaries, and to make sure employees are compensated fairly for what they do. To learn more about the project and timeline, visit the Compensation Modernization Initiative microsite.

Smeal in the News

Smeal MBA Program featured in Poets & Quants story

The college’s residential MBA program was featured in a Poets & Quants story titled “Hidden MBA Gems: These Schools Have More Applicants Per Seat Than Wharton.” Read the story.

Do you know someone who rocks? Nominate them!

Each month the Smeal Staff Advisory Committee names a You Rock! Award recipient. You can nominate a co-worker for the You Rock! Award online.

The Smeal Community Weekly Poll

This week's survey explores the relationship between muffins and cupcakes. Click this link to participate. Results will be shared during the next Smeal Community Zoom.