Education Benefits Transform Staff to Masters
Three University staff members who took advantage of Pitt’s education benefit to earn a new degree are set to graduate this spring. They believe the tuition benefit to be one of the top perks of working for the University — and say they couldn’t have accomplished their advanced studies without it.

Bonneau to Succeed Wilson as Senate President
Chris Bonneau, a political science faculty member, has been elected to succeed Frank Wilson as president of the University Senate. Online voting for membership on Senate committees is currently taking place and will run through May 7.
Medical Plans to See Small Increase in Premiums for 2018-19
Health insurance premiums will see a minimal increase for 2018-19, said Lori Carnvale, director of benefits in the Office of Human Resources, at the April 17 meeting of the University Senate’s benefits and welfare committee.
New Name Coming for Total Rewards Study
The Total Rewards study is going through a name change, said Cheryl Johnson, vice chancellor of human resources, at the Senate budget policies committee’s April 20 meeting.
Faculty Assembly, Senate Pass New, ‘Friendlier’ Conflict of Interest Policy
A new conflict of interest policy characterized as less restrictive was approved by members of Faculty Assembly and Senate Council at their April meetings. The policy is now friendlier, both in ease of reading and with regard to restrictions.

Commencement Volunteers: Behind the Scenes of Pomp and Circumstance
Pitt staff who volunteer at the University’s spring commencement ceremonies start their days hours before the ceremonies start — and once events begin, most of their work is already complete.

Photos: Pitt Community Celebrates Provost Beeson With Reception
The University community gathered at a reception to celebrate Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Patricia E. Beeson as she prepares to leave her administrative role.

Particles and Prose: Making Science Understandable Through Creative Writing
The creative science writing program piloted last summer in Pitt’s sciences and English departments aims to train and inspire students to bring attention and understanding to science through popular written forms, from creative nonfiction and journalism to poetry.

Targeted Connections Between Diverse Businesses, Pitt Purchasers at Heart of Matchmaking Events
To create a more diverse supplier pool and support more local businesses, Renée Galloway has been organizing a series of matchmaking events that bring representatives of smaller companies to campus.

Staff Showcase Lean Six Sigma Certification Projects
Fourteen staff members in the Office of Human Resources recently celebrated becoming Lean Six Sigma Certified Green Belts by hosting a poster board session in Craig Hall on April 6.
Opportunities to Lean Green Extend Beyond Sustainability Week
Pitt Sustainability Week raised awareness of a new University-wide sustainability plan that sets the bar even higher. Using the free public transportation that comes with a Pitt ID or considering commuting alternatives such as vanpools, carpool and shuttles are among the ways that faculty and staff can help the University reach its goals.