Office of Human Resources

Staff and Faculty Appreciation

As UMaine enters month ten of what is currently the “new normal”, we want to let staff and faculty know how much their support, understanding, and commitment mean to “The College of Our Heart Always.”

Words can not express enough gratitude for your efforts in adapting, managing, and juggling a new way of working and teaching. 

Show your appreciation for a staff member and colleague by nominating them for the UMaine “Caught in the Tracks” acknowledgment and virtual “thank you note”.  Your kind words will go a long way in recognizing a colleague’s efforts, successes and contributions.

Do you know someone who:

• Goes above and beyond job expectations on specific tasks
• Helps a colleague complete a task, or fill in for a team member
• Goes out of their way to show kindness and generosity to their peers
• Makes a difference around campus that often goes unnoticed
• Possess an unwavering positive attitude

Ways to show appreciation during COVID-19

Sending a note card or an email is a quick and easy way to recognize and thank your colleagues for a job well done.  Gratitude has a favorable impact on our mental and physical well-being and helps to support a positive culture with strengthened employee relationships.  Whether giving a card, or receiving one, one feels the benefits of gratitude including happiness, optimism, and less stress.

Here are some simple ways you can help celebrate employee excellence any time of year:

• Don’t wait for the annual recognition events  – acknowledge employee achievements immediately.
• Utilize the Caught in the Tracks nomination form. It’s quick and easy and it let’s everyone know how great UMaine staff and faculty are.
• Are some days just too busy?  Set a reminder on your calendar to reach out to your colleague(s) or employee(s) with a note of gratitude.
• Connecting with your team using Zoom is a great opportunity to let your team know they are valued.
• Find the silent heroes and say thank you.  Think about those who work behind the scenes to support UMaine.  These are the hard working employees who can often get overlooked because they care more about the work than their ego.  
• Care about each other’s health and safety!  Make sure staff have what they need to do their jobs safely during COVID-19, and be flexible and understanding.