April 3, 2020
We've Gone Virtual!
During these times of social distancing and online engagement, you can know keep up with L.E.A.P.S via our newsletter.
Professional Development
Using Zoom in Professional Settings
  • Pay attention to your background. We can see all the stuff that your camera can see. If you’re finding it challenging to make your space camera-ready (of if you’re too stressed or tired to clean) you can always choose a virtual background. You can get a walk through for the process here. 
  • Remember the camera. It can be hard to seem engaged on Zoom because you’re looking at the screen of your device. As a result, it often looks like you’re looking away from the person you’re trying to talk to. If you look at the camera when you’re talking, it can help folks in the meeting connect with you. 
  • Check your settings. Once your meeting/class/etc. starts, double check to make sure your mic is muted.You can always un-mute your mic later. If you haven’t used Zoom or Teams Video Chat on a given device before, you can check your audio and video capabilities before your meeting starts, especially if it’s important that you not look like this photo for the duration of the conversation. If you’re having trouble hearing or your computer’s mic isn’t picking you up, consider plugging in a gaming headset if you have one. Finally, if you are sharing a computer with a family member, partner, or roommate, check and make sure they haven’t changed settings before beginning your class. 
  • What do you suggest? Did we miss a tip or trick that has helped you live your best life in video-conferences for class or meetings? Let us know! We’ll continue adding your tips and suggestions in future issues. 
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Cesar Chavez Day
Labor Rights Legacy

Cesar Chavez became a prominent leader in the movement La Causa, or, the fight for labor rights. "Sí, se puede", is the iconic slogan that epitomized the farmworkers rights movement. The positive phrase was coined by Dolores Huerta and served to motivate the marginalized farmworkers. His activism inspired many laborers to fight against agribusiness and organize to earn a living wage. Chavez organized non-violent protests, strikes, fasts and boycotts that led the workers to earn the right to unionize. Cesar Chavez, alongside Dolores Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers union. His fight for labor justice was acknowledged in 2014 when March 31, Cesar Chavez’ birthday, was declared a federal commemorative holiday by President Barack Obama.

For more information:
COVID-19
Stay in the Know

In order to protect yourself and others from getting sick, be sure to keep up with the latest information from the CDC.

Working From Home?
Many of us face a few challenges when adapting to a new routine. If you are new to working from home, read the article linked below on how to adapt to your new workspace.

Let Us Know What You Think!
We use survey feedback to make sure we're giving you the best possible professional development, learn more about the folks who engage with HSI STEM LEAPS Programming, and we're hoping to learn more about whether a newsletter like this one would be a helpful supplement to in-person professional development offerings next fall. Thanks in advance for helping us help you!