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.

Student Development staff, Associate Director of Student Development & Commuter and Volunteer Affairs Shane Franzen, and Capital Planning and Maintenance staff members joined forces to erect the Highland Plaza Holiday Tree in preparation for the Fitchburg State University Annual Lighting of the Campus. The campus will gather at the plaza for the Lighting of the Campus this Thursday, November 30, at 4:30. 

Damp weather couldn't dampen spirits at this morning's Welcome Back & Employee Recognition Celebration. Due to inclement weather, President Lapidus hosted this annual event at the Liscotti Pavilion in the Antonucci Science Complex Colleagues gathered and were able to reconnect after the summer, and before the start of the fall semester next week. After making their way to Kent Recital Hall, President Lapidus welcomed all, gave an update and a look to what's ahead, followed by awards and recognitions.

Earlier this week, as part of Women's History Month, members of the Fitchburg State University community gathered to discuss the four most remembered and acclaimed of Maya Angelou's poems "Phenomenal Women", "Still I Rise", "Weekend Glory", and "Our Grandmothers". These poems celebrate women with a majesty that has inspired and touched the hearts of millions.

President Lapidus joined staff this morning at the North Street Bistro for the first of three Staff Appreciation events, also held simultaneously at the McKay Café. Staff were treated to a beverage, and a snack, with their tickets entered into a prize raffle. The other appreciation dates are, April 12, and May 4, 2023.

This afternoon, the Fitchburg State University gathered in President's Hall to bid a fond farewell to Sherry Horeanopoulos who is retiring after 27 years of dedicated service to the university.