An unsuspecting Peter August, Assistant Dean of Enrollment School of Graduate, Online and Continuing Education (SGOCE), made his way to the President's Conference Room where President Donna Hodge,  Chief Information Officer Stefan Dodd, Chief Information Security Officer Eric Boughton and Cameron Emanuel of our Technology Department presented him with the inaugural Fitchburg State University Phishing Award. After making his way back to the School of Graduate, Online and Continuing Education (SGOCE) Offices to brag a bit to his co-workers, the trophy was given a place of honor in Peter's office.

Each year, Fitchburg State University's Office of Student Development holds, and judges, the Staff Golden Pumpkin Costume Contest - this year's theme was Movies. The winning office gets bragging rights for an entire year along with the Golden Pumpkin Trophy! 

As part of Human Resources and Payroll Services Development Programs, Maria Millagros Vasquez, Class of 2001, author and motivational speaker empowered participants to find their why, practice intentionality, own their happiness, honor their feelings, and live in the present moment. A sense of belonging begins with oneself. Director of Title IX & Equal Opportunity Rebecca H. Newell introduced Maria, who kicks off the University’s Belonging Campaign with this  keynote presentation.

Earlier this week,  Biology and Chemistry Department Chair Dr. Erin Rehrig hosted a gathering to celebrate the "retirement" of  Biology and Chemistry Professor Dr. Michael Nosek at the Liscotti Pavilion in the Antonucci Science Complex. After being presented with a certificate from Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Patricia Marshall on behalf of President Hodge and the Board of Trustees, Dr. Rehrig gave a basket of gardening tools from her and the rest of the Biology and Chemistry Department - of which he made good use of to serve cake. While Dr. Nosek has officially retired, he will remain with the university as an Adjunct Professor.

This morning, Vice President for Student Affairs Laura Bayless welcomed President Donna Hodge and the Student Affairs staff to join her for Kick-Off 2024-25 in the Main Lounge of Hammond Hall. President Hodge thanked the staff for all their efforts made for the success of our Fitchburg State University students as well as fielding questions.

This morning, Director of of TRIO Student Support Services Beth Swartz, held a Managing Stress session with our Orientation Leaders (OLs) in the Hammond Center Main Lounge. She taught the OLs some stress relieving techniques, and discussed strategies on dealing with stressful situations.

It was a gorgeous morning on the Fitchburg State University quad for a breakfast. Capital Planning and Maintenance Maintainer staff members were invited to join President Hodge for an appreciation breakfast. This gave President Hodge the opportunity for her to connect with, and thank them for all their work before the start of the new semester. President Hodge will also be hosting a dinner this evening for those who work second shift. 

Yesterday, President Donna Hodge, in collaboration with Human Resources, hosted a BBQ luncheon for the university's AFSCME employees on the quad. This was a great opportunity for campus colleagues to enjoy some social time with one another before the start of the fall semester.

Have you admired the reflection of Thompson Hall from the Hammond Hall Plaza and noticed some greenery in the third floor windows? The plants are the result of a Student Affairs retreat program that was held in May. All offices under the Student Affairs umbrella decorated a pot for another office and then planted a random mix of wildflowers. Counseling Services are the caretakers because of the amazing window space.

This afternoon, soon to be retired President Lapidus, and incoming President Donna Hodge hosted an Ice Cream Social at the Lisciotti Pavilion in the Antonucci Science Center. The event was an opportunity for colleagues to gather, meet our new President, and catch up after the academic year and before the summer. Both Presidents doled out the ice cream to an eager and grateful crowd.