This Human Resources update was sent from Associate Vice President, Chief Human Resources Officer Charmagne Shearrill to all CalArts faculty and staff, regardiing back-to-work survey results, concerns, and support information.
Dear CalArtians:
We are halfway through 2020 and I think we would all agree, this is a year for the history books! Yet, despite the turmoil of this pandemic, we as members of the CalArts community have persevered and are working diligently to prepare our campus for reopening in September so that our students have the best educational experience possible.
Several weeks ago you were asked to complete the CalArts Return to Work Survey. Seventy-four percent of staff and seventy-two percent of faculty participated in the survey. These are outstanding participation rates. Thank you all so much for your candid and honest feedback.
Many of you shared the challenges you have encountered working remotely such as child care issues, establishing a work-life balance, concerns about safety protocols when the campus reopens, the difficulty for students to interact with one another, and the challenges of teaching remotely. These are just a few of the many concerns.
While we all seem to be spending our days on Zoom calls, and one person noted missing the comradery of colleagues, the survey revealed that communication between supervisors and coworkers has been effective. So bravo to everyone who is working hard to make the best of these very challenging circumstances.
The survey also revealed that the number one concern for faculty and staff about returning to campus is safety. Please know that our Facilities staff, who have been working consistently during this pandemic, are working tirelessly to prepare the building for a safe reopening. I thank them for their dedication and hard work.
It goes without saying that we are working in unusual times, to say the least. Please remember to practice self-care. We encourage you to take time away from work to destress, decompress, and re-energize. Also please remember that the Employee Assistance Program (“EAP”) is available with a myriad of services for you and your immediate family members. Their contact information is below.
Anthem Blue Cross EAP
800-999-7222
www.anthemeap.com
Program Name: CIA
Thank you all for your commitment and dedication to CalArts.
Sincerely,
Charmagne