Smeal Update: December 3, 2021
Tis the season for patience and understanding
As we enter this busy, often hectic time of the year, please remember our Smeal values when interacting with one another. Assuming positive intent and simply expressing “please” and “thank you” can make a meaningful impact on someone’s day. We live in uncertain times; let’s be good to one another and to ourselves.
Record number donates to Smeal on GivingTuesday
Thank you to everyone who made a gift or became a “Champion” for this year’s GivingTuesday effort to raise funds for the Smeal Student Emergency Fund. More than 160 donors, surpassing last year’s record, helped the college raise more than $26,500 to support Smeal students who unexpectedly cannot afford food, rent, utilities, internet access, medical bills, or other necessities.
Executive MBA undergoes changes
The Penn State Smeal Executive MBA in Philadelphia recently enhanced its program format for Fall 2022, providing students with unmatched flexibility and customizable options to tailor a curriculum that aligns with their unique career ambitions. Read the story.
CSCR develops two-part white paper on blockchain
The Center for Supply Chain Research has developed a two-part white paper that explores blockchain technology and enterprise applications. Part 1 of the paper discusses blockchain technology from various perspectives, ranging from a birds-eye view, an evolutionary view, to a light technical view. This work aims to bring researchers and business leaders up to speed on the essential foundations about blockchain technology and pave the way for Part 2 of the white paper, which will investigate its applications in supply chain management. Part 1of the white paper is available online.
Preparing for January return to campus
Unit heads will submit Spring 2022 work arrangements for staff and academic administrators to Tamara Giluk by the end of the day. Smeal leadership and the Ad-hoc Return-to-Work Committee will review submitted plans, balancing continued support for flexibility for employees where possible with ensuring business and customer needs are met. We anticipate finalizing these arrangements prior to the winter break. Supervisors will notify employees of the their approved work arrangements once finalized.
United Way remains a critical resource for the area
Once again this year, Penn State has named the Centre County United Way its charity of choice. The University is encouraging all employees and members of our community to take part in helping to support the many vital services provided through the United Way. Both the history of Penn State’s involvement with the United Way and the impact a gift can make are explained in this letter from University leadership.
DEP, WIB partner to help Toys for Tots
The Office of Diversity Enhancement Programs and Women in Business are collaborating to help Toys for Tots for Centre County. If you would like to help bring joy to a child this season, consider bringing a new, unwrapped toy to 204 Business Building. The groups are also collecting non-perishable food items to help restock local food pantries. Donations will be collected through Thursday. All toys and food items will be distributed to children in need within Centre County. If you would like to participate in the annual wrapping schedule, registration is required for each session. Information on the wrapping schedule and collection locations can be found online.
Next week at Smeal
Smeal Holiday Reception planned for Thursday
Don’t forget, the Smeal Holiday reception will be held from 3:30-5 p.m. Thursday in the Business Building Atrium. We will have food, drinks, music, and a photo booth. Hope to see you there!
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
Click this link to participate in this week’s survey. Results will be shared during the next Smeal Community Zoom, at 1 p.m. Monday.