Update—Oct. 13:

Bring about change: Take the Working at Iowa survey

	Photo by Tim Schoon.

In 2006, University of Iowa staff and faculty were presented an opportunity to confidentially tell UI leadership how they feel about working at one of the state’s premier institutions. Some 43 percent of UI employees provided feedback in 2006—which gives employees a goal to surpass when the 2008 Working at Iowa survey is unveiled on Tuesday, Oct. 14.

The survey, which will be sent via e-mail to UI employees, will ask specific questions about staff and faculty members’ personal commitment to their jobs, their cooperation and collaboration with colleagues, supervisor effectiveness, confidence in leadership, University communications, and other issues, according to Kevin Ward, executive associate director in UI Human Resources.

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Health coaches help UI employees with smoking cessation efforts

	Photo by Tom Jorgensen.

Since July 1, smoking has been banned on the University of Iowa campus under the Smoke-Free Air Act. In response to this environmental policy change, many faculty and staff at the University have decided to try to kick the habit.

“Stopping tobacco use is extremely challenging, like any major lifestyle change,” says UI Wellness coordinator Megan Moeller. “Our health coaches work with people on a case-by-case basis to determine the best plan to help them quit.”

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Board of Regents president Miles notes Mason's achievements in first year

On Sept. 25, University of Iowa president Sally Mason formally responded to the Stolar Report at the Board of Regents, State of Iowa meeting in West Des Moines. Regents president David Miles then shared remarks as a response to the Stolar Report and prior to adopting a motion regarding Mason's compensation.

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Photo feature: Teaching papermaking history and techniques

Tim Barrett, research scientist and adjunct professor at The University of Iowa, invited fyi to observes his teachings during his Papermaking History and Techniques course, which is taught in the new Center for the Book papermaking classroom in North Hall.

See the photos...

News in brief

AROUND CAMPUS…

• UI Foundation sets new fundraising record
• Recommendations for tenure and promotions due Feb. 9
• Nominations due today for Catalyst Awards recognizing diversity efforts
• Instructional Improvement Awards support teaching initiatives
• Go Green Initiative identifies waste stream problems, solutions
• Looking to add a little adventure to your life?
• Discounts for UI employees featured on new web site
• Buildings magazine lists UI Facilities Management among top 10
• Resources available for UI faculty, staff members impacted by flood
• See which Learning and Development courses are right for you

(Full details)

DISCOVERIES…

• UI research shows tort reform sometimes lowers insurance premiums
• UI team develops imaging approach for difficult cancer diagnosis
• Researchers develop new model for cystic fibrosis
• Survival varies widely after emergency treatment for cardiac arrest
• UI researchers find potentially toxic substance present in Chicago air

(Full details)

TRANSITIONS…

• Recent deaths

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