Monday, August 18, 2025

Professional Development

GROW@FIU


Take charge of your professional development with My Career Journey, a personalized tool available through LinkedIn Learning.


Powered by AI, My Career Journey can help you:

  • Explore career paths tailored to your goals
  • Identify the skills needed for your next role
  • Build a customized LinkedIn Learning plan


How to Get Started:

Log into LinkedIn Learning using your FIU credentials and select My Career Journey from your dashboard.


Featured Course:

Artificial Intelligence Foundations: Machine Learning | Learn how AI is reshaping higher education. Ideal for professionals in advising, IT, student services, and leadership. Stay ahead and future-proof your skills!


Questions? Contact Talent Management and Development at (305) 348-3206.


Event Management System Trainings


Don’t miss the upcoming Event Management System (EMS) Trainings hosted by the Central Reservations Office!


Whether you're overseeing venues or planning events, these sessions are designed to help you navigate EMS processes with confidence and ease. The trainings below will be held in the Student Academic Success Center (SASC), room 100. Be sure to register ahead of time!


EMS Essentials for Space Managers:

  • Tuesday, August 19, 2 p.m.
  • Wednesday, August 20, 9:30 a.m.
  • Thursday, August 21, 9:30 a.m.


EMS Billing Essentials: Charging for Campus Events:

  • Tuesday, August 19, 9:30 a.m.
  • Wednesday, August 20, 2 p.m.


EMS WebApp 101: Creating Reservations Online:

  • Thursday, August 21, 2 p.m.


Questions? Contact the Central Reservations Office at (305) 348-1100.

Compliance Matters

Compliance Policy Updates


Please make sure to familiarize yourself with any policies and policy updates that may impact your work here at FIU!


The following policies were recently updated and published:


  • 1910.002 IT Asset and Computer Purchasing: The purpose of this policy is to outline guidelines for the purchase, management and disposal of Information Technology (IT) assets and computer systems owned by Florida International University (FIU).


  • 1705.024 Prohibition of Hazing by Faculty and Staff: This policy ensures Florida International University is dedicated to facilitating a respectful and safe environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors. Hazing committed by university faculty, staff, or visitors, volunteers, or third parties affiliated with the university is forbidden.


Questions? Contact the University Compliance Office at 305-348-2216.


Fire Arms & Dangerous Weapons Policy


To ensure the safety of our faculty, staff, and students, FIU maintains a strict policy pertaining to the use of firearms and dangerous weapons.


This policy contains information regarding possessing, storing, manufacturing, or using a dangerous article, including but not limited to, firearms, destructive devices, explosives, slingshots, weapons, tear gas guns, electric weapons or devices and fireworks, on any property owned, used or under the control of Florida International University in accordance with Florida Statutes Section 790.115 except as provided by Florida Statutes Section 790.25(5). 


Any violation of this policy will result in immediate termination of employment.


For more information, review the Fire Arms and Dangerous Weapons Policy.


Questions? Contact Employee

Labor Relations at 305-348-4186.


Fall Into Wellness: Upcoming Workshops

Qigong for Your Health & Well-being

The Office of Employee Assistance (OEA) is excited to bring back biweekly Qigong classes during the Fall semester!


Qigong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is a gentle, accessible practice blending breathwork, movement, and meditation to boost energy, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. These sessions are suitable for all fitness levels.


The perk of joining include:

  • Reduce stress, increase vitality, and improve focus
  • Enhance flexibility and relieve tension
  • Connect with colleagues through a shared wellness experience


Sessions are offered in person on a biweekly basis starting Tuesday, September 9, at 12 p.m. at the Modesto A. Maidique Campus (MMC), Green Library, room 220.


Register ahead of time to attend!

Sound Bath Meditation Sessions

Are you ready to experience deep relaxation and inner peace?


The OEA invites you register and attend the transformative Sound Bath Meditation Sessions held on a biweekly basis starting on Thursday, August 28, at 12 p.m. at MMC in the Green Library, room 220.


Sound baths use soothing vibrations from instruments like crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes to wash over you. Sessions aim to melt away stress, restore balance and clear mental blockages. This immersive experience promotes emotional well-being while helping you reconnect with your body and mind.


We can't wait to slip into relaxation together!

New Virtual OEA Fall Workshop


Anxiety is a natural human experience, but when it becomes a habit, it can shape how we think, feel, and respond to life.


The Rethinking and Rewiring: Breaking the Anxiety Habit Loop workshop aims to help you discover how anxiety forms, the habit loop that reinforces it, and mindful practices to create a more balanced, compassionate response.


Empower yourself to shift your relationship with anxiety and uncover opportunities for self-awareness and growth through practical tools and insights.


Be sure to register for any of the 12 p.m. workshops below:

Panthers Thrive Book Club


What if the key to thriving in uncertain times isn’t just about bouncing back - but bouncing forward?


In Shatterproof, New York Times bestselling author and organizational psychologist Tasha Eurich offers a research-backed guide to becoming mentally and emotionally unbreakable. Through gripping stories and practical tools, she shows how to cultivate self-awareness, adaptability, and courage in the face of change, failure, and challenge.


Whether navigating personal setbacks or professional upheaval, Shatterproof provides a roadmap to grow stronger through struggle.


Join the Panthers Thrive Book Club to reflect, discuss, and explore what true resilience looks like today. Gatherings occur virtually on a biweekly basis beginning Friday, September 26, at 12 p.m.

Questions? Contact the Office of Employee Assistance at (305) 348-2469.

FIU KOFE Financial Wellness


KOFE (Knowledge of Financial Education) is here to help Panthers take control of their finances with confidence. With this free benefit to faculty and staff, you have access to a wealth of online self-help tools and unlimited financial coaching. Register for free using your FIU credentials.


Don't miss KOFE’s monthly webinars, held every third Wednesday, for expert tips on budgeting, saving, and more. Make sure to check out KOFE’s latest newsletter: Back-to-School Season: Smart Spending for Families.

Wellness Bite Webinar


Hosted by: Benefits Administration


Taking place via Zoom on Wednesday, August 27 at 12 p.m.

Questions? Contact Benefits Administration at (305) 348-2181.

Benefits Updates

Seasonal Perks & Promotions


Check out the great savings offered to our faculty and staff through the Employee Perks & Services Program:


  • Children's Creative Learning Center at FIU
  • Fresh Meal Plan
  • Spot Pet Insurance
  • Tickets at Work
  • Jewish Museum of Florida


For a complete list of employee perks, please visit the FIU’s Employee Perks site.

Benefits Reminders


Keep yourself informed with the latest benefits updates and reminders designed to support you:


  • Benefit Resourced for New Employees
  • 9-Month Faculty: Deferred Earning Program (DEP) Enrollment Period | 2025-2026 Academic Year


Reminder: Update Your Beneficiary Designations for Life Insurance & Retirement Plans


Updating your beneficiary designations is a simple step that makes a big difference. It ensures your wishes are honored, protects your loved ones’ future, and gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing everything is in place.


Take a moment to review and update your current beneficiary designations.

Questions? Contact Benefits Administration at (305) 348-2181.

Campus Updates

FIU Pig Roast Series Tailgate Edition


Join us for the launch of the FIU Pig Roast Series Tailgate Edition at the Pitbull Stadium benefitting FIU Athletics at 10 a.m. on Saturday, September 13!


This exciting new tradition will take place on the day of the FIU vs. FAU football game and will serve as an opportunity to bring students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to FIU.


Want to join the competition?

Rally your team and fire up the friendly rivalry! The registration fee for each team is $700 and will include:

  • Entrance into the FIU Pig Roast Series for four team members
  • Four t-shirts
  • Four tickets into the football game
  • 40-50 lb. of uncooked pig for the competition. The seasoning, marinade, and cooking equipment are up to you. Family recipes are encouraged!


Registration to join the competition is required by the deadline on Monday, August 18!


Individual tickets are also available to the general public and include entrance to the football game against FAU.


Bring your friends, family, and appetite for a full day of food, football, and Panther pride!


Questions? Contact the FIU Foundation at (305)348-3758.

Panthers' F1RST NIGHT


Let's kick off the academic year by welcoming our newest Panthers at the signature tradition event: Panthers’ F1RST NIGHT!


This signature tradition takes place at 6 p.m. on Monday, August 25, at Pitbull Stadium.


The evening begins with a formal ceremony where FIU’s president and college deans officially welcome incoming students.

Afterward, students, their families, faculty and staff can enjoy music, food, and fireworks, as well as opportunities to connect with current Panthers, alumni, and explore FIU’s many clubs, organizations, and programs.


Faculty and staff are encouraged to join the celebration, show off their blue and gold spirit, and RSVP today!


Questions? Contact the Division of Student Affairs (305) 348-2797.

Welcome Back Bash: Vice Vibes on the Bay


Come to the Welcome Back Bash: Vice Vibes on the Bay, taking place from 1 to 3 p.m. on Thursday, September 4, at the Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management patio, Biscayne Bay Campus!


Don’t miss this chance to connect with new friends, mingle with colleagues, and indulge in some delicious bites!


Questions? Contact the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at

(305) 833-7359

Celebrate the First Week of Fall with Coca-Cola!


Join us on Wednesday, August 27, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Graham Center Lawns as we celebrate the start of the Fall semester during the Coca-Cola Welcome Back Block Party!


Enjoy exciting Coca-Cola activities, music, and plenty of surprises in a lively event atmosphere. It’s the perfect midweek break to welcome the start of the new academic year.


We can't wait to see you there!


Questions? Contact the Office of Business Services at 305-348-2187

Hazing Prevention Week


Mark your calendars for Hazing Prevention Week events taking place Tuesday, September 23 to Thursday, September 25!


Student Health & Wellness and the Center for Fraternity & Sorority Enrichment invites faculty and staff to a series of engaging events to raise awareness, promote respect, and strengthen our FIU community.


Check out the upcoming events below:

Tuesday, September 23, 6 to 8 p.m.

Graham Center room 243


Wednesday, September 24, 12 p.m.

Held virtually on the FIU Center for Fraternity and Sorority Enrichment Instagram


Thursday, September 25, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Student Academic Center for Success, room 160


Learn how you can help prevent hazing, support students, and create a safer environment!


Questions? Contact Greek Life at 305-348-5299

Get Ready for FIU Family Weekend!


FIU Family Weekend is set for Friday, September 19 to Sunday, September 21!


Celebrate Panther pride with campus tours, museum visits, and our Family Weekend Tailgate, followed by the FIU vs. Delaware Fightin' Blue Hens football game on Saturday, September 20. This year’s theme is Biscayne Blue, so don’t forget to show your spirit in FIU gear! Kickoff is at 6 p.m. at the Pitbull Stadium.


Be sure to purchase your 2025 Family Weekend Package which includes trendy FIU swag, a tailgate entry ticket, admission to the football game and the chance to sign up for the on-field tunnel to help hype up the Panthers before kickoff!


Check out the full schedule and start planning your weekend!


Questions? Contact Orientation and Family Programs at 305-348-6414.

Panthers Sustainable Tailgate


Go green on gamedays by purchasing a Sustainable Tailgate Package from the Office of Sustainability for your tailgating event!


These eco-friendly packages come with a set of 10 compostable plates, cups, forks, spoons, knives and napkins. It also comes with a free rental five gallon composting bucket.


Looking for ways to keep your Panther pride green? Try these tips:

  • Bring empty plastic bottles (no caps) and aluminum cans to recycling stations.
  • Carpool, take Freebee, or ride Panther Express on gamedays.
  • Use eco-friendly, reusable décor and tailgating supplies.
  • Plan portions to reduce food waste.


Help keep trash from getting into our environment by cleaning up any litter from your event!


Follow the Office of Sustainability on Instagram for more environmental tips.


Questions? Contact the Office of Sustainability at (305) 348-3717.

Congratulations to EH&S!


Please join us in congratulating the Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S) team for proudly representing FIU at the 2025 The Campus Safety, Health, and Environmental Management Association (CSHEMA) 72nd Annual Conference!


The team was honored with three prestigious CSHEMA awards:

  • Innovation Award for Process Improvement
  • Marketing Campaign Award
  • Marketing Single Media Award


Additionally, they contributed by presenting a technical session on safety outreach and participating in a panel discussion, where Tamece Knowles, director, shared insights from her leadership experience.


Be sure to send the EH&S team a congratulations through Empower!


Questions? Contact Environmental Health & Safety at (305) 348-2621.

HR News & Updates Feedback

Tell Us What You Think!


This newsletter is aimed to keep our workforce updated with important information. To ensure we continue to meet your needs, we welcome your valuable feedback. Email us at hrrel@fiu.edu and we will make sure to contact you.

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FIU is a State University System of Florida member, Equal Opportunity, Equal Access, and Affirmative Action Employer for individuals with disabilities and veterans. FIU does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, national origin, marital status, and veteran status in its employment decisions, programs, and activities.  For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination, contact FIU's Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Accessibility at 305.348.2785 or email ocrca@fiu.edu.


Should you need an ADA accommodation to participate in a university event, program, or activity or need to request materials in an accessible format, please contact FIU’s Office of Civil Rights Compliance and Accessibility (CRCA) at (305) 348-2785 or accommodations@fiu.edu. All requests for ADA accommodation or accessible materials for this event must be submitted to CRCA at least seven (7) business days prior to the event or at the earliest possible opportunity.