Faculty/Staff

Reusable takeout containers are coming to Campus Dining

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 18:10:45 +0000

Reusable takeout containers are coming to Campus Dining Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 08/04/2026 - 12:10

Getting takeout at CU �鶹ӰԺ is about to become more sustainable.

Campus Dining & Hospitality, in collaboration with the Environmental Center, is launching USEFULL—a new reusable takeout container program that replaces disposable containers with durable stainless steel ones at participating dining locations. The program is part of CU �鶹ӰԺ's ongoing commitment to reduce waste and make sustainable choices easier for everyone on campus.

Whether you're grabbing lunch between classes or taking your meal back to your office, you'll simply check out a reusable container, enjoy your meal and return it when you're finished.

Where takeout is changing

USEFULL will replace disposable takeout containers at participating Campus Dining locations. If you order takeout at these locations, you'll use a reusable USEFULL container instead.

The program launches:

SEEC Café: Aug. 10

Alferd Packer Grill: Aug. 16

Students, faculty, staff and campus visitors can all participate by downloading the free USEFULL app and creating an account before ordering takeout.

How it works

Before using a reusable container for the first time, download the free USEFULL mobile app for Apple or Android and create an account.

When you order takeout:

Open the USEFULL app.

Scan your personal QR code at checkout.

Take your meal to go in a reusable container.

Return the container to any USEFULL return station within two days.

That's it! You don't need to wash the container before returning it—just empty any leftover food or drinks. Campus Dining will wash and sanitize every container before it's used again.

Remember to return your container

USEFULL is free to use when containers are returned within two days.

Containers that aren't returned within the two-day checkout period are subject to a $1 per day late fee. After two weeks, an unreturned container is considered lost and a replacement fee is charged.

The good news? You can return your container to any USEFULL return station. It doesn't have to be the same dining location where you picked it up. Return stations are currently located in the designated dining areas within the UMC and near the SEEC Cafe.

Supporting a more sustainable campus

Choosing a reusable container may seem like a small action, but together those choices can make a big difference.

By replacing single-use takeout containers with reusable ones, the USEFULL program helps reduce waste while supporting CU �鶹ӰԺ's broader sustainability goals. Every returned container can be washed, reused and kept in circulation, reducing the number of disposable containers used across campus.

”Partnering with the Environmental Center to bring USEFULL to campus is an exciting step for Campus Dining & Hospitality,” said Matt Bratton, director of Campus Dining. “This program reinforces our commitment to making collaborative operational decisions that support CU’s sustainability and waste reduction goals. It also provides a unique opportunity to raise awareness and educate the campus community on how sustained behavioral change can make a big collective impact.”

Learn more about the USEFULL program at CU �鶹ӰԺ.

Beginning Aug. 10 at SEEC Café and Aug. 16 at Alferd Packer Grill, reusable USEFULL containers will replace disposable takeout containers. Download the free USEFULL app before ordering takeout.

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Strengthen your syllabus to support the Honor Code in the age of AI

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 18:11:06 +0000

Strengthen your syllabus to support the Honor Code in the age of AI Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 07/28/2026 - 12:11

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution

As generative AI tools become more common, it’s more important than ever to clearly communicate your expectations for how students may—and may not—use AI in your course.

When Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution reviews an alleged Honor Code violation, your course syllabus is one of the primary resources used to understand your expectations. Clear, specific syllabus language helps students make informed decisions and provides important context if a concern arises.

Here are a few ways to strengthen your syllabus before the semester begins.

Make your AI expectations clear

Be as specific as possible about how and when AI tools may be used in your course.

Consider whether your course falls into one of these categories:

Full AI use: Students may use AI throughout the course.

No AI use: AI tools are not permitted.

Conditional AI use: AI is allowed only for specific assignments or parts of assignments.

If your course uses a conditional approach, clearly explain when AI is permitted, when it is not and any requirements for documenting or citing its use.

The Center for Teaching & Learning offers sample syllabus language that can help you develop an AI policy that fits your course.

Think through how students might use AI

AI tools continue to evolve, and so do the ways students use them.

As you prepare assignments, projects and exams each semester, consider where AI could reasonably be used and whether your syllabus addresses those situations. Reviewing your course materials regularly can help ensure your expectations remain clear as technology changes.

Providing students with an easy way to ask questions about assignment expectations can also prevent confusion before it becomes an academic integrity issue.

Review your syllabus each semester

An AI policy that worked a year ago may no longer address today’s tools and classroom practices.

Before the semester begins, review your syllabus to make sure your AI guidance is current. It can also be helpful to ask a colleague to review your language or consult campus experts for feedback.

Use campus resources

Student Conduct & Conflict Resolution can answer questions about the Honor Code process and how syllabus language is considered during case reviews.

The Center for Teaching & Learning offers guidance on teaching with AI, academic integrity and sample syllabus statements to help you communicate expectations clearly.

Taking time to clarify your AI expectations now can help students navigate your course with confidence and uphold the Honor Code throughout the semester.

As generative AI tools become more common, it’s more important than ever to clearly communicate your expectations for how students may—and may not—use AI in your course. Here are a few ways to strengthen your syllabus before the semester begins.

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Fall Welcome reminders for faculty and staff

Anonymous — Wed, 22 Jul 2026 17:23:53 +0000

Fall Welcome reminders for faculty and staff Anonymous (not verified) Wed, 07/22/2026 - 11:23

Each August, new Buffs and their families arrive on campus for residence hall move-in and Fall Welcome. It's one of the busiest and most exciting times of the year as students settle in and begin their CU �鶹ӰԺ experience.

As you prepare for the start of the semester, here are a few important reminders about parking, traffic and ways you can help welcome our newest Buffs.

Plan ahead for parking and traffic

Welcoming thousands of new Buffs brings significantly more traffic to campus and the surrounding �鶹ӰԺ area. Temporary parking restrictions help manage congestion while giving students and their families the space they need to move into the residence halls safely and efficiently.

Faculty and staff can keep these important dates in mind:

Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15: Parking restrictions will be in effect in lots near residence halls.

Sunday, Aug. 16 through Tuesday, Aug. 18: Expect significant traffic and parking impacts across campus. From 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Aug. 16-18, only vehicles displaying official move-in permits may access Regent Drive and Colorado Avenue east of the Colorado Avenue/Folsom Street intersection.

Parking Services will email permit holders with information about any impacts to their assigned lot or parking zone.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to plan ahead by using alternate transportation, allowing extra travel time or discussing flexible work arrangements with their supervisor if appropriate.

Volunteer during Fall Welcome

Fall Welcome is a campus-wide effort, and faculty and staff volunteers play an important role in helping new students and their families feel welcomed from day one.

Volunteers are especially needed during signature events and evening programs, where they help greet students, answer questions, assist with activities, and create a positive first impression of CU �鶹ӰԺ.

Whether you can volunteer for one shift or several, your time helps make Fall Welcome a memorable experience for thousands of new Buffs as they begin their college journey.

Ready to help? Review available volunteer opportunities and sign up for a shift.

�鶹ӰԺ 8,000 new students and their families will arrive on campus soon, marking the start of Fall Welcome. Here’s what faculty and staff need to know to get ready.

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Be part of the tradition: Volunteer for Fall Welcome

Anonymous — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Be part of the tradition: Volunteer for Fall Welcome Anonymous (not verified) Mon, 07/20/2026 - 00:00

Fall Welcome and move-in are almost here! This is your chance to make a difference, join an annual campus tradition and help new students and families feel at home.

Move-in takes place Aug. 14-18, and Fall Welcome runs Aug. 16–29—bringing faculty, staff and students together to kick off the school year in an exciting way. Volunteering gives you the chance to be part of this meaningful tradition, creating a positive and inviting atmosphere for the newest members of our Buff community. Whether you help with move-in or assist at fun events, there are plenty of ways to get involved.

Here are three reasons to volunteer this year:

1. Make a difference for new Buffs and their families

Your friendly presence as a volunteer can transform what might be an overwhelming experience into one that’s filled with positivity and support.

By assisting with move-in or volunteering at signature events, you have the chance to connect with students and their families, offering valuable advice or simply a warm smile. This is your chance to show them what makes our community so special.

2. Strengthen bonds within your department or group

Volunteering with your department or colleagues is a wonderful way to step outside your day-to-day responsibilities and engage in something both impactful and rewarding.

Fall Welcome offers an energizing environment where you can build camaraderie with your peers while contributing to a common goal. Why not sign up together and make it a team effort? For group sign-ups or additional information, reach out to Andrew Alexander.

3. Enjoy perks, including CU �鶹ӰԺ gear

For your time and effort, all volunteers receive a CU �鶹ӰԺ T-shirt. Not only will you feel good about your contributions, but you’ll also look the part as a proud member of our campus community.

Your participation is essential to creating a warm and welcoming environment that sets the tone for a successful year ahead. Join us in making Fall Welcome and move-in unforgettable for our new Buffs. Sign up to volunteer today!

Fall Welcome is almost here, and you can be a part of this exciting tradition by volunteering to help with move-in and signature events. Here are three reasons to volunteer for Fall Welcome this year.

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Recreation Services is becoming Campus Recreation & Well-Being

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 21:27:42 +0000

Recreation Services is becoming Campus Recreation & Well-Being Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 07/14/2026 - 15:27

CU �鶹ӰԺ Recreation Services is entering an exciting new chapter with a new name: Campus Recreation & Well-Being.

This updated name reflects the department’s growing role in supporting the health, well-being and success of the campus community. Although the name is changing, the welcoming spaces, engaging programs and experiences will remain the same.

Reflecting the impact of recreation

The addition of “well-being” helps tell a fuller story about the department’s purpose and the positive impact recreation has across campus.

Campus recreation has always been about more than physical activity. From fitness classes and outdoor adventures to intramurals, sport clubs and community spaces, these experiences foster health, resilience, belonging and success. The new name celebrates well-being as the outcome of this work and recognizes the many ways students, faculty, staff and community members can find connection, energy and support through recreation.

The term “well-being” also reflects the language students, families and campus leaders use when talking about what helps students thrive. By naming this more directly, Campus Recreation & Well-Being offers a clearer picture of the department’s role today and creates room to keep growing alongside the needs of the campus community.

Services and access remain the same

Campus community members can continue to count on the same access, opportunities and welcoming experiences they know and value. The following will not change:

Facilities and spaces

Access and memberships

Hours of operation

Fees and pricing

Student and staff employment opportunities

Supporting well-being across campus

Campus Recreation & Well-Being's name better reflects the department’s commitment to helping the CU �鶹ӰԺ community move, connect and thrive. This new name celebrates the role recreation plays in supporting health, belonging, personal growth and well-being while creating a strong and inspiring foundation for the future.

CU �鶹ӰԺ Recreation Services is entering an exciting new chapter with a new name: Campus Recreation & Well-Being. This updated name reflects the department’s growing role in supporting the health, well-being and success of the campus community. Although the name is changing, the welcoming spaces, engaging programs and experiences will remain the same.

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Volunteer for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026

Kyra Raye Loch — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 21:22:53 +0000

Volunteer for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026 Kyra Raye Loch Wed, 07/08/2026 - 15:22

Help welcome our newest Buffs to CU �鶹ӰԺ!

Each year, campus community members play an important role in helping new students and their families feel at home during move-in and Fall Welcome. Whether you're greeting students, answering questions, helping families find their way or supporting campus events, a few hours of your time can make a big difference.

Move-in takes place Aug. 14-18, and Fall Welcome runs Aug. 16–29. There are a variety of volunteer opportunities to fit different schedules and interests.

Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to participate. Be part of the team that helps new Buffs feel at home from the moment they arrive!

Volunteers are essential to the success of move-in and signature Fall Welcome events. Roles include providing event support, distributing welcome bags, driving golf cart shuttles and more. Sign up to volunteer today!

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Support the Career Closet: Donate professional clothing

Kyra Raye Loch — Tue, 12 May 2026 19:49:14 +0000

Support the Career Closet: Donate professional clothing Kyra Raye Loch Tue, 05/12/2026 - 13:49

Career Services

Career Services is collecting gently used professional attire to help CU �鶹ӰԺ students prepare for upcoming career and networking events.

Donate on campus

Faculty, staff, alumni and employers are invited to donate items June 1-Aug. 7 at the following locations on campus:

University Memorial Center: Second floor next to the elevator, 7 a.m.-10 p.m.
Career Services. C4C S440, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Donation guidelines

Clean and ready to wear
No stains, damage, or visible wear
Buttons and zippers intact
Shoes with minimal wear
All sizes welcome!

Items needed

Dress shirts
Blouses
Blazers
Pants/slacks
Skirts
Dresses
Ties
Belts
Professional shoes

Career Services is collecting gently used professional attire to help CU �鶹ӰԺ students prepare for upcoming career fair prep events.

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Prepare for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026

Emily Sampl — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Prepare for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026 Emily Sampl Tue, 04/14/2026 - 00:00

Plans are already underway to welcome our new class of students this fall. For fall 2026, new student move-in will occur Friday, Aug. 14 through Tuesday, Aug. 18. During this time, nearly 8,000 new students and their families will arrive on campus, marking the start of Fall Welcome and the new academic year.

Faculty and staff play an essential role in helping campus operations run smoothly. Here’s what you need to know to prepare.

New Student Orientation

All incoming students are required to attend New Student Orientation in June or July, and faculty and staff will see more new students and families on campus this summer. Students and families will spend two days on campus, where they will connect with others, learn about life at CU �鶹ӰԺ and explore campus resources. Students will also register for fall semester classes.

Move-in

Move-in for students participating in pre-arrival programs will be Friday, Aug. 14. International students will move in on Saturday, Aug. 15, and first year and returning students will move in on Sunday, Aug 16 through Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Parking

Faculty and staff should plan for parking restrictions on Friday, Aug. 14 and Saturday, Aug. 15 in the parking lots near residence halls. Significant on-campus parking and traffic disruptions can be expected from Sunday, Aug. 16 through Tuesday, Aug. 18. Campus event planners should also consider the impacts on guests if events are hosted Aug. 14-19.

With increased traffic around �鶹ӰԺ during move-in, parking closures help create a more efficient move-in experience for new students and families by limiting the number of vehicles driving to, on and around campus.

Closer to move-in, permit holders will receive an email notification of any parking lot impacts from Parking Services.

Fall Welcome

Students will participate in Fall Welcome events Aug. 16-29. Students will learn more about campus resources and support services, while making valuable connections with fellow Buffs, faculty and staff.

Parent and family engagement opportunities will also take place during this time. These opportunities will help welcome them to our CU community and share resources and services to help with their student’s transition to CU �鶹ӰԺ.

Campus departments are invited to submit programs, events and opportunities to be included in the Fall Welcome schedule. Submit your Fall Welcome program by May 8, 2026. Any questions regarding Fall Welcome can be directed to New Student and Family Programs.

Volunteers needed

Volunteers are essential to the success of New Student Orientation, Fall Welcome and move-in. The university needs enthusiastic volunteers to help welcome new students and families to campus, with a heightened need for volunteers anticipated for Sunday, Aug. 16.

The volunteer sign-up will be released soon. To be notified once the sign-up is live, or to begin coordinating group volunteering, please email reslife@colorado.edu.

For fall 2026, new student move-in will occur Friday, Aug. 14 through Tuesday, Aug. 18. Faculty and staff play an essential role in helping campus operations run smoothly. Here’s what you need to know to prepare.

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Ways to appreciate and motivate your student employees

Zoe Bryant — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 23:41:07 +0000

Ways to appreciate and motivate your student employees Zoe Bryant Fri, 04/03/2026 - 17:41

Career Services

Each year, the National Student Employment Association (NSEA) designates the second full week in April to celebrate National Student Employment Week, and this year it falls on April 13-19. This is the perfect opportunity to recognize student employees whose hard work and dedication greatly contribute to the success of our campus community. Here are a few ways you can acknowledge your student employees this semester.

The importance of celebrating

Expressing gratitude for your student employees fosters a positive work environment where students feel confident and motivated. Use the designated time during Student Employment Week to applaud the individuals and programs that impact the campus community.

Students: Show appreciation for student employees who consistently go above and beyond. Balancing academic responsibilities with on-campus work takes dedication, and their daily contributions are essential to the success of the department and campus community.
Supervisors: Recognize supervisors who hire and mentor student workers. They provide invaluable training and development opportunities to help students prepare for their future careers.
Impact: Celebrate the value of on-campus jobs. These opportunities offer students real-world skills and professional development. At the same time, student employees play a vital role in the college experience for everyone. Through their roles, they help create a dynamic and inclusive environment that meets the diverse needs of their peers.

How to celebrate

Showing appreciation for student employees can be easy, fun and inexpensive. Small acts of recognition foster a sense of belonging and create an environment where students can thrive. Here are some ideas you can use during the week and throughout the semester:

“Treat Week”: Dedicate each day of the week to a different snack—cookies, popcorn, candy, trail mix, etc.
Shout-outs: Take pictures of your student employees at work to post on social media or an office bulletin board.
Employee superlatives: Buy or print blank certificates and come up with creative awards such as an “Interior Decorator Award” for someone with the best desk decor or “Office Bestie Award” for someone who’s most likely to remember everyone’s birthday.
Goodie bags: Fill small bags with trinkets, prizes, thank-you notes and treats.
Gift cards: Give out small gift cards (e.g., fast food, coffee) or buy them a coffee or snack at their favorite on-campus dining location.
New initiatives: Student Employment Week is a great opportunity to start an award recognition program. Look around the office or at home for a “white elephant” item to serve as an award you can present. Give the award a name and purpose. For example, a “Gotcha Award” for when you catch someone in the act of doing something good.

More ways to recognize student employees

The Student Employee of the Year Award honors student employees who go beyond day-to-day expectations and make outstanding contributions in their roles. All nominees are recognized at a special luncheon with the chancellor during Student Employment Week. Thank you to everyone who nominated students this year! Be sure to nominate your exceptional student employees when nominations open in December 2026 or January 2027.

Student Employee Appreciation Week events

Encourage your student employees to attend appreciation events on campus:

Helpful resources for faculty and staff

Celebrating student employees goes beyond recognizing their achievements. It also involves supporting them as they prepare for life after college. Career Services works with faculty and staff to provide access to the best resources for our students during their job search.

Handshake: You can request a staff or faculty Handshake account to help graduating students find job opportunities from local and global employers. If you’re looking to hire student employees, use Handshake to post available hourly and work-study positions.
Recommendation letters: As a mentor, student employees might ask you to serve as a reference when they begin applying to internships or jobs. Review these guidelines, samples and resources for writing recommendation letters.
MySkills: Encourage your student employees to identify the skills they’ve learned in their on-campus job and reflect on how they apply to future careers.

Recognizing the value of student employees’ contributions supports their growth and success. Student Employment Week is a great time to celebrate, but meaningful recognition year-round is key to making a positive impact on students, promoting retention and motivating them to continue excelling.

Here are a few ways you can acknowledge your student employees this semester.

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Office spring cleaning tips for faculty and staff

Anonymous — Tue, 06 May 2025 14:36:48 +0000

Office spring cleaning tips for faculty and staff Anonymous (not verified) Tue, 05/06/2025 - 08:36

Environmental Center

At the end of another academic year, you may be looking to do some spring cleaning around your office. As you start to declutter desk drawers and other spaces, the Environmental Center has tips to help you make the most of your spring cleaning.

Recycling paper, cardboard and more

Recycling reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, which contributes to managing climate change. When recyclable items are put into the correct bin, it helps ensure materials maintain a high quality for the recycling process. If you have paper, cardboard or containers, there are bins with helpful instructional posters around campus to help make recycling easy. Learn more about recycling in campus buildings.

Old equipment and furniture may be reutilized, recycled or auctioned as an alternative to disposal. Contact Property Services, who manage disposal of furniture and equipment purchased with CU funds. In addition to pick-up of large items, they offer sales and auctions of used CU property to the campus community and public.

Hard-to-recycle materials

Many special material items can be recycled through CU Recycling and the Environmental Center. These include:

Old cell phones, chargers, batteries, iPods, MP3 players or portable CD players
Computer disks, DVDs, jewel cases, floppy disks, VHS tapes and other magnetic tapes generated by campus departments (personal CDs and DVDs cannot be recycled through CU Recycling)
Office supplies such as printer and toner cartridges, Tyvek envelopes, transparencies, interdepartmental mail envelopes, three-ring binders, dividers and folders.
Plastic bags and film plastics
Lab supplies

If you are cleaning out files, storerooms, etc. and have more recyclables than the current recycling station can handle, email recycling@colorado.edu or call 303-492-5321 to arrange for delivery of additional containers in advance.

Other sustainability tips for the office

Save energy by turning off computers, printers and copiers when you’re not in the office. Activate sleep mode on computers instead of screen-savers, and activate energy savers on copiers and printers.
Commit to bringing in or keeping reusable items at the office. This can include mugs, water bottles, tote bags, utensil sets and more.
Consider biking to or around campus over the summer. Faculty and staff can visit the UMC and Folsom bike stations for bike repairs, tune-ups and advice from mechanics on bike commuting. Faculty and staff also can get 50% off of an annual BCycle pass.

Earn your Green Office Certification

The Green Office Certification is a campus sustainability program through the Environmental Center that incorporates many campus sustainability initiatives. The program has environmental and financial impacts, with very little time commitment.

Increasing staff and faculty awareness of environmental policies, operations and resources at the university will maximize participation, reduce resource consumption, save money and provide practical knowledge to pass along to students and employees. As the employer of over 7,000 faculty and staff, CU �鶹ӰԺ has a tremendous impact on the community. By earning a Green Office Certificate in five easy steps, your office can have a positive lasting environmental and financial impact on the CU �鶹ӰԺ community.

Fill out this interest form to learn more about earning a Green Office Certification from an Environmental Center staff member.

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Faculty/Staff

Reusable takeout containers are coming to Campus Dining

Where takeout is changing

How it works

Remember to return your container

Supporting a more sustainable campus

Related Articles

Strengthen your syllabus to support the Honor Code in the age of AI

Make your AI expectations clear

Think through how students might use AI

Review your syllabus each semester

Use campus resources

Related Articles

Fall Welcome reminders for faculty and staff

Plan ahead for parking and traffic

Volunteer during Fall Welcome

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Be part of the tradition: Volunteer for Fall Welcome

1. Make a difference for new Buffs and their families

2. Strengthen bonds within your department or group

3. Enjoy perks, including CU �鶹ӰԺ gear

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Recreation Services is becoming Campus Recreation & Well-Being

Reflecting the impact of recreation

Services and access remain the same

Supporting well-being across campus

Related Articles

Volunteer for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026

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Support the Career Closet: Donate professional clothing

Donate on campus

Donation guidelines

Items needed

Related Articles

Prepare for Fall Welcome, move-in 2026

New Student Orientation

Move-in

Parking

Fall Welcome

Volunteers needed

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Ways to appreciate and motivate your student employees

The importance of celebrating

How to celebrate

More ways to recognize student employees

Helpful resources for faculty and staff

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Office spring cleaning tips for faculty and staff

Recycling paper, cardboard and more

Hard-to-recycle materials

Other sustainability tips for the office

Earn your Green Office Certification

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