Page _________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 1 Issue 11
U N I V E R S I T Y O F T E C H N O L O G Y, J A M A I C A
Quarterly Newsletter of the Division of Human Resources and Administration , University of Technology, Jamaica
Volume 3
Issue 1
Welcome Back Everyone!
July 2013
Inside this issue Editorial………………………………………………………..……..….1
As the President outlined at the start of the year, the University is facing considerable economic constraints which will affect how we do things this year.
Personality of the Quarter……………………………………….2
Despite these challenges we as a team of academic, administrative, technical and ancillary staff can still pull together to offer world class service to both our internal and external customers. Now is not the time to despair and lose motivation.
Hospitality & Tourism Management…..………..…….…...6
We must see this as an opportunity to be creative and to find innovative ways to improve our services and market our product. Our university has a lot to offer and we must demonstrate this every day as we work.
Your Health Matters—Asthma……………..…….….13—14
This quarter we will be showing appreciation to those who have served and performed. On May 10, 2013, 138 employees who have served between 10-40 years will be honoured. We commend their commitment and applaud their level of service. We hope that they will serve as inspiration for all of us to continue at the task
Awards , Achievements & Appointments...…..…….......3 Highlights from the Poster Competition….……..…..4—5 Conversation with the Head of School - School of
Wellness Page – Estate Planning………………….………….7 Highlights from the 2013 HR Conference…….……8—11 Know Your Benefits—Health Insurance News…...…..12
Your Money Matters…………………………………….....……15 Office of the Customer Service Advocate.………..…... 16 Environmental Health Unit…………………………………….16 Rewards and Recognition …………………...…….……17 –18 Highlights from the 2nd Staging of the Professional Development Day…………………………..…………………..…19 Just for fun/Did you know corner.…………………..……..20 Managing the Performance Review and Appraisal Meeting…………………………………………………………….…..21
Jennifer Ellis Vice President Division of Human Resources & Administration
UTECH Staff Dearly Departed....………………………..…..22 Thank you………………..………………………………….…………23 Upcoming Training Events & Directories.……………...24
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HR FOCUS_________________________________________________________________________Junly2013
Ques. Where do you most want to travel, but have never been?
Prof. Paul Miller, Professor of Educational Leadership and Management, in the School of Graduate Studies, Research and Entrepreneurship
Ans. I have been to Africa several times but I have never been to Egypt-regarded as the birthplace of modern civilization. I would love to visit one day. Ques. What is your favourite food?
GETTING TO KNOW YOU
Ques. Which High School did you attend? Ans. Clarendon College Ques. What’s your sign? Ans. Scorpio Ques. What are some character traits that friends would use to describe you? Ans. Passionate, kind, easy going, caring father Ques. You were hosting a dinner party and must invite 3 famous persons. Who would you invite and why? Ans. Former President of Cuba and South Africa-Fidel Castro, Nelson Mandela and Angela Merkel –The current German Chancellor. These are visionary leaders who posses a strong humanitarian zeal and social and cultural capital well beyond national and regional borders. Ques. What is your philosophy on life? Ans. Love God: love your family; love your friends; keep your enemies very close and live as if there is no tomorrow. Ques. What is your favourite TV show? Ans. I don’t have a favourite show at the moment. However, before returning to Jamaica from the UK I enjoyed watching Downtown Abbey-a British period drama about aristocracy, gallantry and humanitarianism. Ques. Who is your favourite author? Ans. I enjoy all sorts of books and I have hundreds of books on my Kindle. Therefore, I wouldn’t say I have one favourite author. At the moment I am reading “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott and recently I read “Falling Star” by Diana Dempsey.
Ans. I am very easy to feed. I don't eat pork, beef, mutton and much more. I eat chicken and fish (though not salt fish) done just about anyway. Ques. What is your favourite time of the day/day of the week/month of the year? Ans. My favourite time of the day is in the evening-after work when I get to unwind and regroup with family and friends. My favourite month of the year is October! Figure it out. Ques. If you could be a fictional character, who would you choose? Ans. Sherlock Holmes. His druggie life aside, Sherlock is a deductive genius who uses his analytic mind for the good of others. Ques. If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet? Ans. Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. She represents, in my mind, stability and continuity, humility and strength and a fount of knowledge about people in the world.
Editorial Committee Jennifer Ellis
Jacqueline Cook
Tracey-Ann Pessoa Norma Messam-Hinds
Heather White Urla Junor
Kamla Anderson
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HR FOCUS_________________________________________________________________________July2013
Awards and Achievements
Heartiest congratulations to the following persons who have successfully completed their degrees.
Mr. Hector Wheeler was appointed to the position of Associate Vice President, Advancement effective April 1, 2013.
Dr. Maurice Fletcher
PhD - University of Miami Dr. Sean Thorpe
PhD - University of Technology, Jamaica
Dr. Nilza Justiz-Smith was appointed Dean of the Faculty of Engineering & Computing effective January 2, 2013.
Dr. Copeland Stupart
PhD - University of Waterloo Dr. Garfield Young
PhD - University of Nottingham Dr. Marcia Williams
PhD- The Queen’s University of Belfast
Dr. Doryck Boyd, was appointed Vice Dean of the College of Oral Health Sciences, effective August 1, 2012, and Associate Professor effective April 1, 2013.
Mr. L. Mark Taylor, was appointed to the position of Vice Dean of the Faculty of the Built Environment, effective April 15, 2013
Roberta Carridice
Master of Arts degree in Human Resource Management (Merit) from the University of Westminster.
APPOINTMENTS
Dr. Fitzroy Henry, Newly appointed Professor of Public Health Nutrition in the College of Health Sciences effective April 2, 2013.
Mr. Kent Pantry, CD, QC, was appointed Professor of Law and Associate Vice President, Legal Affairs, effective March 1, 2013.
Dr. Vernon Buchanan, was appointed to the position of Professor of Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Computing and Vice Dean of the Faculty effective April 1, 2013.
Dr. Wessel Thomas, was appointed to the position of Associate Professor in the Faculty of Engineering & Computing, effective March 1, 2013.
Mr. Arnett Campbell, was appointed to the position of Head of School, School of Computing & Information Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Computing, effective September 1, 2012 for one term.
Dr. Noel Brown, was appointed to the position of Associate Professor and Head of School, School of Engineering of the Faculty of Engineering and Computing, effective April 1, 2013. Dr. Kamilah Hylton, was appointed to the position of Head of School, School of Natural & Applied Sciences of the Faculty of Science and Sport effective January 2, 2013 for a period of three (3) years.
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HR FOCUS________________________________________________________________ Volume 3 Issue 1
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE HR WELLNESS POSTER COMPETITION AWARDS CEREMONY, APRIL 18, 2013. The Division of Human Resources & Administration hosted a Poster Competition in conjunction with the 2013 HR Conference which was held on March 21-22, 2013. The Competition was opened to neighboring schools as well as University of Technology and UWI Mona Students. A total of thirty-five (35) entries were received. The theme for the Grades 2-3 and 4-6 category was POSTER COMPETITION “Children are what they eat”. The theme for the TerPreparatory/Primary Schools tiary category was “ My Wellness: My Responsibil“ Children are what they eat” ity”. Mrs. Debra GuinessBrown from the National Health Fund presents sponsor cheque valued at $200,000.00 to Mrs. Jacqueline Cook (UTECH) as part of the prize money for the Poster competition.
Grades 2-3 1st place Raoul Dennis, Mona Heights Primary 2nd place Sashia McCalla, Mona Heights Primary Grades 4-6 1st place Shannon Powell, Mona Preparatory 2nd place Aaliyah Hughes, Mona Preparatory Tertiary Schools “My Wellness: My Responsibility” 1st place Brittney Pink, UTech 2nd place Omar Williams, UWI 2nd place Sanja Bonnick, UWI
Mrs. Debra Guiness-Brown (NHF) presented with a plaque.
1st and 2nd place winners (L-R) Brittney Pink and Sanja Bonnick.
Page 5
Volume 3 Issue 1
Continued from page 4 - Highlights from the Poster Competition Awards Ceremony.
1st Place Winning Poster, done by Raoul Dennis –Grades 2-3 Category, Mona Heights Primary School.
1st Place Winning Poster done by Shannon Powell –Grades 4-6 Category, Mona Heights Primary School.
2nd Place Poster done by Aaliyah Hughes –Grades 4-6 Category, Mona Heights Primary School.
Prize money presented to 1st place winner in the Grades 4-5 category at Mona Primary School.
Mrs. Debra Guinness-Brown (NHF) presents prize money to 2nd place winner Sashia McCalla in the Grades 2-3 category.
2nd Place Poster done by Sashia McCalla –Grades 2-3 Category, Mona Heights Primary School.
Winners from both categories show their wining posters.
2nd Place winner Omar Williams (UWI) in the Tertiary category.
Mrs. Jacqueline Cook (UTECH) presents prize money to 2nd place winner Aaliyah Hughes, Mona Heights Primary School in the Grades 4-6 category.
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HR FOCUS_________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
Ques. What is the Mission Statement of the School? ANS. Our mission is to be the premier hospitality and tourism training institution in the region and beyond by:
Teaching professional and technical competencies appropriate for careers in the hospitality and tourism industry
Ques. Are there any plans for new programme offerings for the upcoming 2013-2014 Academic year? ANS. The programme offerings will remain the same. Ques. Where do you see the school in the next five years? ANS.
Providing opportunities for experiential learning
Providing an environment that fosters entrepreneurship and an ethic of service
Promoting excellence in research, innovation and creativity
Ques. We have all seen the ongoing construction in the area. Please give us an overview of what the expansion will include and how it will impact the school?
Although we are already recognized- forging stronger linkages with industry partners (locally and regionally) and government through collaborative activities.
Create business activities based on the skills and knowledge within the School to increase revenues to the School and by extension the College – the new teaching facilities to be renowned as a premier location for dining and function activities
To better enable the research process as we seek to encourage sustainable tourism, hospitality and culinary practices and in doing so positively impact the environment within which we operate
Increasing and strengthening our presence in the Englishspeaking Caribbean in an effort to increase our student intake from these areas
ANS.
The long awaited expansion to the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management commenced March 2012 with a double pronged approach, including both the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) Project as well as the two-story expansion to the existing structure is well underway. It is anticipated that at the end of the CDB Project, SHTM will have a fully operational teaching hotel with a 108-seat restaurant with additional capacity for banquets and functions, accompanying 6,000 square feet state-of -the-art culinary laboratories as well as demonstration lecture theatre. The expansion to the present structure was completed in April with the construction of a two-storey extension to the existing single-storey building, together with some alterations and extensions to the existing ground floor. The end result of this project has seen the addition of eight classrooms, relocated administrative offices and staff rooms a relocated culinary lab and other support spaces along with an elevator.
Being the tertiary School of choice for all hospitality programmes but with definite emphasis on the culinary Arts. Focused on improving the overall image and consciousness of the tourism and hospitality graduate – as we look to them as the change agents for creating and sustaining the country’s Vision 2030 goals – achieving their fullest potential, seeing to the formation of a healthy natural environment all leading to a economically prosperous Jamaica.
Ques. What does the job of Head of School entail? ANS. The work ranges considerably and entails a blend of internal and external activities. The job of Head of School is challenging but rewarding in many ways especially when students do well academically; represent the University and excel. I find it most rewarding when I know I have made a difference in the life of my staff and students.
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HR FOCUS_________________________________________________________________________July 2013
WELLNESS PAGE Estate planning The University has experienced grief at various times due to the untimely passing of members of the community. Death is not something that we like to think about, especially when it hits so close to home. These recent events have provided an opportunity for us to feature the topic of Estate Planning. As such a session on estate planning was held on March 4, 2013 in collaboration with the Administrator General’s Department. This session was very enlightening and as such useful information provided by the Presenter is being shared with the University Community. Firstly, all adults over the age of 18 need to make a will. You may not think that you have much to leave behind but you would be surprised. In addition to the big ticket items such as property and cars, there are items such as clothing, books, and jewelry that need to be designated as to who they should go to. If you have children you can designate a trust for establishing expenses for your dependents and determining who their primary caregivers should be.
In your will you can express your wishes about your funeral, burial or cremation. When a will is drafted you must name an Executor who will act upon your wishes. This must be a trustworthy person who can be depended upon to execute your wishes as you desire. Things to know about writing a will: 1. A will must be written, whether typed or handwritten. 2. It must include your full name, occupation and address. 3. An appointed Executor must be named. 4. The will must be dated and signed by you (the testator) and two witnesses. 5. Any person who is named in the will as a beneficiary (including a spouse) cannot be a witness on the will. 6. The executor cannot be both a beneficiary and a witness.
7. The two witnesses must sign at the same time.
8. Marriage automatically revokes a will. If you get married you must re-do your will. 8. You can change your will as often as you want. 9. You do not need a lawyer to sign your will. 10. A will only takes effect after your death. These tips presented are merely a summary of the important things you need to know. The HR Division has received copies of a document that can be used to
draft wills so if you need this information please do not hesitate to contact us. Dying intestate (or without a will) can cause a lot of unnecessary headache and stress for your loved ones. So please take a few minutes to make these preparations.
Administrator General Department It is better to foresee even without certainty
The Administrator General is an Executive Agency in Jamaica that administers estates under three circumstances: 1. A person dies and leaves no will and there are minor beneficiaries
than not to fore-
2. Where a will does not name an Executor
see at all.
3. The named Executor has died or refuses to act
Henri Poincare
If you or anyone you know need the services of the Administrator General they can be contacted at 12 Ocean Boulevard Kingston, telephone no. 922-1930-3 or 922-0700-5 or via email at admingen@cwajamaica.com
Page 8 _______________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
Highlights From the 2013 HR Conference The third staging of the Human Resource Conference in conjunction with the University Diabetes Outreach Programme (UDOP) 19th Annual International Conference examined the topic: “Emerging Trends in Human Resource Management: Preparing Your HR To Add Value” The seminar took place at the Sunset Jamaica Grande Hotel and Spa, Ocho Rios on March 21-22, 2013. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9 Panelists from the Round Table Discussion – Unlearning intolerance: Creating an Inclusive & Diversified Society. (L-R) Prof. Paul Miller (UTECH);Mrs. Christine HendricksJamaica Council for Persons with Disability; Her Excellency, Mrs. Mathu Joyini-South Africa High Commissioner; Dr. Carolyn Gomes-Jamaicans For Justice and Mr. Dane Lewis-J-FLAG)
Page 9 _______________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
Highlights From the 2013 HR Conference The focus was on bringing to the fore important issues and challenges that modern organizations face and the implications of these challenges for HR Professionals as they contribute to enhancing business competitiveness. The conference was divided into five professional sessions and a CEO’s forum which was thought provoking as CEO’s views on the concept of HR adding value “Rhetoric or Reality” was discussed. Our round table discussion “Unlearning Intolerance: Creating an Inclusive and Diversified Society” dealt with diversity in the workplace and in societies as a whole. This segment was aired live on Power 106 FM.
Plaque presented to Dr. Fitzroy Henry (Professor of Public Health Nutrition –COHS) by Mrs. Norman Messam (HR-UTECH).
Page 10 _______________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9
Highlights From the 2013 HR Conference
Plaque presented to Mr. Gary Peart (CEO Mayberry Investment Limited) by Ms. Ava Weatherly (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Dr. Phillip Brown (Group Director, Human Resource Training & Service Standards-Sandals Resort International) by Mrs. Jennifer Ellis (VP HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Mr. Ian Kenyon (CEO Harris Paints-Barbados) by Mrs. Jacqueline Smith (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Ms. Jenita Townsend (General Manager, Human Resources -National Housing Trust) by Mrs. Janet Barrett (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Ms. Gail-Ann King (Human Resources Advisor, Barbados Light & Power Company Limited) by Mrs. Andrea Findlayson (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Mr. Rickert Allen (Senior General Manager, HR-National Commercial Bank) by Mrs. Heather White (Medical Centre-UTECH).
Page 11 _______________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10
Highlights From the 2013 HR Conference
Plaque presented to Mr. Andrew Dale (Ministry of Labour) by Mrs. Jacqueline Cook (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Mr. Dane Lewis (Executive Director of Jamaica’s Premier Human Rights Organization & Executive Member of CariFlags, the Caribbean Forum for Liberation and Acceptance of Genders & Sexualities) by Mrs. Norma Messam (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Mrs. Christine Hendricks (Executive Director of the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities-JCPD) by Mr. Michael McAnuff-Jones (President, Human Resource Management Association of Jamaica-HRMAJ)
Plaque presented to Her Excellency, Mrs. Mathu Joyini (South African High Commissioner to Jamaica) by Ms. Sheryl Jones (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Dr. Paul Miller (Professor of Educational Leadership, School of Graduate Studies, Research & Entrepreneurship, UTECH) by Mrs. Jacqueline Smith (HR-UTECH).
Plaque presented to Dr. Carolyn Gomes (Executive Director of Jamaicans for Justice) by Mrs. Heather White (Medical Centre-UTECH).
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HR FOCUS______________________________________________________________________________ July 2013
Based on consultation with staff and the unions, the University has taken a decision to renew the Group Health Insurance Plan with Guardian Life (Medecus) for the period February 1, 2013 – January 31, 2014 with increases in benefits as listed in Option 2a outlined below. The schedule illustrates all four (4) renewal proposals considered. Option 2a represents a 22.36% increase in premiums over the existing rates. The University has agreed to support Option 2a against the background that a beneficial Health Plan is in keeping with the thrust to enable a healthy workforce/workplace, particularly in a harsh economic climate. An updated benefit schedule is now available on the intranet and can be accessed by clicking on the link below: http://intrautech/administrative/human-resources/policies-and-procedures/ HealthInsuranceBenefitSchedule2013.pdf Below is an illustration of the current and new rates showing the distribution for both employee (20%) and employer (80%) premiums:
Categories
Existing Employer Employee (80%) (20%)
Renewal (22.36%) Employer Employee
Single Coverage
$823.80
$4,119
$1,006.80
$5,034
Family Coverage
$2,185.40
$10,927
$2,674.80
$13,374.00
Please note the following changes to Guardian Life/Medecus costs associated with the following transactions effective April 8, 3013 . Transactions
Previous Fees
New Fees
Stop Payment on Cheque
$1,356.28
$1,750.00
Replacement of Cheque
$832.98
$1,300.00
Replacement Swipe Card
$300.00
$500.00
Replacement Benefit Card
$200.00
$300.00
Income Verification Statements
$2,000.00
$3,000.00
Page 13
Volume 3 Issue 1
CHRONIC ILLNESS AND YOU
What is Asthma? Asthma is a condition that affects the airways, which are small tubes that carry air in and out of the lungs. People with asthma have sensitive airways that respond badly to conditions which can lead to an asthma attack. These airways are hyperactive and can react badly when you have a cold or viral infection or when you come into contact with an asthma trigger. A trigger is anything that irritates the airways and causes symptoms of asthma to appear. Common triggers include colds or ‘flu”, cigarette smoke, exercise and allergies to things like pollen, furry or feathery animals or dust mites. When someone with asthma comes into contact with an asthma trigger, the muscle around the walls of the airways tightens so that the airway becomes narrower and less air flows through to the lungs. The lining of the airways becomes inflamed and swollen, as well as produces sticky mucus or phlegm. All these reactions cause the airways to become narrower and irritated leading to difficulty in breathing. The usual symptoms of someone with asthma are:
Coughing Wheezing or whistling noise in the chest
Shortness of breath A tight feeling in the chest Continued on Page 14
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Volume 3 Issue 1
CHRONIC ILLNESS AND YOU
What is Asthma?
Continued from page 13
Not everybody will get these symptoms. Some people may experience them from time to time if they get cold or come in contact with one of their asthma triggers. Others experience their worst symptoms at night or first thing in the morning or after exercise. A few people may experience asthma symptoms every day and asthmatics must ensure that they have their medication on hand in the event of an asthma attack. It is important to recognize and treat mild symptoms in order to prevent severe asthma attacks. If the symptoms of an asthma attack worsen, visit your doctor or the nearest hospital immediately.
Prepared by the National Health Fund “Your Health is Your Responsibility� September 2010
Chronic illnesses are rarely cured but can be treated.
Page 15
There's no better time than now to make the most of your hard-earned cash! View some tips to help you stretch your dollar. With the economic downturn affecting businesses big and small, many of us are feeling the pinch. However, getting a good buy doesn't mean paying the cheapest price for something. It's all about getting the most value for your dollar. We've put together our first set of tips to help you budget and save, yet still have enough left over to give yourself a little treat from time to time .
Reading the newspaper is good for you and your pocket
Check out newspaper ads to see which stores are having sales. However, note that advertised prices may not always be the cheapest, nor are you likely to save more, if the store is some distance away. Unless you're planning to stock up on offer-price items, whose savings would help offset add-on costs like transport, you may find yourself saving more money at your neighbourhood supermarket/stores.
Buy More, Pay Less
Buy in bulk items that you use regularly and replenish often. Many items are cheaper if you buy them in larger packaging and/or quantities. When buying food items, be sure to check and keep track of the expiry dates.
Minimize debt
Keep your debt level low. By reducing debt, you also minimize interest and other bank charges. When you are tempted to use your credit card, remember that you are committing yourself to pay for it from income you have not yet earned.
Trim Transportation costs
Transportation is another large expense for most households especially those who own more than one vehicle. The more car s you own, the higher the costs for insurance, repairs and fuel.
Set aside a cash reserve.
Having a cash reserve can help you stick to your spending plan and help keep you out of debt when emergencies, such as a major car repair or short-term disability, arise. Cutting back on excess spending does not have to be difficult, nor does it mean that you must continually deny yourself many of life’s simple pleasures. You will find that, when you live within your means and pay yourself first, your debts will decrease as your savings grow. A personalized spending plan can provide that “extra” income and stretch your hard-earned cash. http://www.epopular.com.sg/family-focus/dollars-and-sense/stretchyour-dollar-money-saving-tips.ph & Liberty Publishing Inc.
Check out House Brands
House brands and no-frills brands can really stretch your dollar. You can receive numerous savings and you may not even notice and difference in the product.
Volume 3 Issue 1
SAFETY TIP FOR USING A PUBLIC COMPUTER
Make a List
One sure way of not overspending is to go shopping with a list in your head. Make a list, decide on a budget and stick to it as best as you can. Buy what you need, not what you want. Give yourself a little flexibility in your budget so you can take advantage of “deals’ should you see them.
Don’t save your login information. Always log out of websites by clicking “log out” on the site. Its not enough to simply close the browser window or type in another address.
Page 16 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, JAMAICA
Office of the Customer Service Advocate
A Partition was installed on the counter at the Front desk in the Main Administration Lobby, this enables a more uniformed approach in customer service delivery as well as to ensure confidentiality of documents handled by our employees.
Customer Service Training was held on April 17 and 18, 2013 with staff members from the following areas: Admissions, Student Services, Office Services (Driver), COBAM, Built Environment and Counseling Unit.
From left: Nigel Cooper,( Lecturer and Volunteer at Hear the Children’s Cry), Betty Ann Blaine (Founder of Hear the Children’s Cry), Mr. Ian Jackson (Jamaica Yellow Pages), His Excellency, Robert Ready ( Canadian High Commission), Andrea Hardware, ( Environmental Health Office, UTECH), Karen Mc Donald- Gayle.( CEO Environment Foundation of Jamaica.)
The Environmental Health Unit of the University of Technology launched its paper recycling project on March 18, 2013 in the Sculpture Park located on the main campus. The launch of the project was marked by a presentation of five large capacity skips at a handing over ceremony by the NGO CEO, Hear the Children’s Cry, Mrs. Betty Ann Blaine and the associated sponsors of the project. On hand to witness and participate in the event were Students from the Halls of Residents, and members of staff representing faculties and departments. Sponsors, The Canadian High Commissioner, His Excellency Robert Ready, The Jamaica Yellow Pages Mr. Ian Jackson, Environment Foundation of Jamaica CEO Mrs. Karen Mc Donald- Gayle and Mrs. Betty Ann Blaine of Hear the Children’s Cry brought greetings from their organizations. Receiving on behalf of the University was the Environmental Health Officer Mrs. Andrea Hardware and Mr. Nigel Cooper , a Lecturer at the University of Technology, and also a volunteer at Hear the Children’s Cry.
Page 17 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
Rewards & Recognition The Forty-Third University Awards Ceremony will be held at the Alfred Sangster Auditorium University of Technology, Jamaica on Friday, 10th May 2013 @ 10:00 a.m. The following staff members will receive awards for Long Service to the University. 10 Years
Norma Allen Dr. Claudine Allen Dr. Rohan Bailey Carmen Bailey Carrol Barnes Shermaine Barrett Karlene Barton Michelle Beckford Rolando Bell Courtney Black Totlyn Bleary Everett Bonnick Millicent Branch Caren Chambers-Cox Margaret Christian Janet Clarke Aqueleasha Dawkins Jacqueline Douglas-Brown Shamin Douse Michelle Drummond Bryan Ellis Wesley Glanville Althea Gooden Dr. Juliette Gordon Novlette Gordon Stanford Graham Janette Grayson Nyron Green Troy Hanson Gwendolyn Haughton Steve Henry Mitzie Hines Mark Jackson
10 Years
Deirdra Jones-WrightJarrett Winston Knight Preeti Kulkarni Jacqueline Lawton Balford Lewis Karen Lewis Sheila Livingston-Lacey Tanyhata Malcolm-Hew Biju Tom Manianghattu Nathan Martin Kenneth McDonald Kevin Miller Phillippa Morgan-Brown Stephanie Morris Doreen Nelson-McGowan Traig Palmer Hopeton Pommells Laura Reynolds Paul Ricketts Janet Roper Krishna Rose Charles Roye Marlene SalmonMcPherson Danneth SandersonWhite Gerald Scale Gaunette Sinclair-Maragh Jasmine Smith Antonio Smith Xhano Soares
15 Years
Denise Allen Heather Barrett Donavan Blairgrove Denese Brown-Bell Stanford Cohen Michael-Anthony DobsonLewis Carmen Facey Karlene Gordon Paulette Groves-Robinson Desmond Hall Martin Henry Lloyd Higgins Robert Johnson Angella Livermore Martin MacLeavy Kenneth McHayle Myralin McKenzie Leith Parkinson Dexter Pindling Robert Riley Elaine Robinson Audrey Saddler Dwight Sibblies Daphne Spencer Deuane Taylor Barry Thomas Anita Thomas-James Anna-Marie Thompson Patrick Vassell Vilma Waite Loretta Walters
Page 18 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
Rewards & Recognition
Continued From Page 15
10 Years
20 Years
25 Years
Joan Spencer-Rowe
Dr. Dorothy Akindele
Jayan Thomas
Earl Bailey
Sean Thorpe
Heather Clarke-White
David Finlay
Linford Tomlinson
Stephen Edwards
Angella Isaacs-Brown
Keisha Weston
Henry Gardener
Bevon March-Brown
Karen White
Anthea Graham
Dr. Damith Wickramanayke
Dr. Claudette Williams-
Gradle Grant
Kevin Williams
Sylvia Hall
Cecil Williams
Terence Henry
Primla Williamson-Munroe
Tamara Henry
Lorna Hinds-Downer
15 Years
Wilfred Watson
Andrew Isaacs
Kerry-Ann White
Corey Limonious
Patrick Williams
Janet Murphy
Mark Wong
Simone Scott-Rhone
Adrian Wray
Vanetta Skeete
Fay Wray
Sonia Young
Dr. Janet CampbellShelly
Myers 30 Years
Enid Dennis-Barnett
Theresa Easy
Glendon Newsome 35 Years
Clive Thompson 40 Years
Julet Lindsay
Page 19 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2nd STAGING OF THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT DAY HELD ON MARCH 26, 2013 AT THE SCULPTURE PARK A number of vendors participated in this event. A wide variety of professional clothing and accessories were available for staff to purchase. The venture was well supported by staff.
Thanks to all the vendors who participated in the Professional Development day.
Sam's mother had 4 children in all. The first one was named May. The second and third were called June and July respectively. What was the fourth child's name?
Answer: Sam
What happens when you throw a white rock into the Red Sea? Answer: It sinks
Page 20 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
DID YOU KNOW CORNER?
SUDOKU
The Difference Between http and https Maybe you already knew this, but we thought it was important enough to refresh your memories even if you already know. FIRST, MANY PEOPLE ARE UNAWARE OF **the main difference between http:// and https://. It's all about keeping you secure** HTTP stands for Hyper Text Transport Protocol, the ‘S’ (big surprise) stands for "Secure". If you visit a website or webpage, and look at the address in the web browser, it will likely begin with the following: http://. This means that the website is talking to your browser using the regular 'unsecure' language. In other words, it is possible for someone to "eavesdrop" on your computer's conversation with the website. If you fill out a form on the website, someone might see the information you send to that site.
Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square.
3 2 4
If a website ever asks you to enter your credit card information, you should automatically look to see if the web address begins with https://. If it doesn't, there's no way you should enter sensitive information like a credit card number.
BEWARE!!
2
3
5 7
5 6
5
3
1 9
2
5 8
7 3
8
2 8
1 9
This is why you never ever enter your credit card number in an http website! But if the web address begins with https:// that basically means your computer is talking to the website in a secure code that no one can eavesdrop on. You understand why this is so important, right?
9
4 4 2
7
4
5
In The Next Issue Riveting and exciting articles on various divisions within the University. Send your comments, views and suggestions to HrFocus@utech.edu.jm
Jus for laughs Answer to Last Edition’s Sudoku
5 9 7 1 3 4 6 8 2
3 4 8 2 6 7 1 9 5
6 1 2 5 9 8 7 4 3
9 5 4 7 2 1 3 6 8
7 2 1 3 8 6 4 5 9
8 3 6 9 4 5 2 1 7
2 8 3 4 1 9 5 7 6
4 7 9 6 5 3 8 2 1
1 6 5 8 7 2 9 3 4
Mother: Son, why did you get such a low mark on that test? Junior: Because of absence. Mother: You mean you were absent on the day of the test? Junior: No, but the kid who sits next to me was.
Page 21 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
Performance Appraisal (Follow Up from Volume 1 Issue II, May 2012)
Managing the Performance Review and Appraisal Meeting It is that time of the year again when managers should be preparing for the annual performance appraisal meeting. The performance appraisal process helps you to answer the two burning questions which most employees need answers to: What do you expect of me? and how am I doing at meeting your expectations? You answered the first question, ‘what do you expect of me’ at the start of the year when you set goals and objectives with your staff. The appraisal meeting provides an opportunity for you to answer the second question, ‘how am I doing at meeting your expectations’.
Six tips to help you through the performance appraisal process:
5. Discuss job satisfaction This is a very important part of the process. Ask the employee how he or she feels about his/her job; any new tasks or responsibilities which he/she would like to take on; any suggestions for improving how things are done; any recommendations for how the department/unit, etc is run. 6. Review and summarize the meeting and agree on the next steps Quickly go over the main points of the performance appraisal meeting and:
Highlight the achievements and successes
Underline the agreed improvement areas
Ask the employee for feedback on the meeting checking that nothing has been left unsaid
Remember that the central purpose of the appraisal meeting is to review and improve the employee’s performance and job satisfaction.
1. Welcome the employee to the meeting
The Appraisal Meeting Agenda might look like this and could be sent to staff prior to the meeting.
You could remind the employee about; the objectives of performance appraisal, how the system works, and importantly, that it is a two way discussion. 2. Review of performance against objectives You can begin by asking the employee to review his/her performance against the agreed performance objectives set. You can then add your feedback.
Summarize agreements and what happens next in the performance appraisal process.
Agenda 1. Welcome 2. Review of performance against objectives 3. Review performance objectives and agree any new objectives
3. Agree on new performance objectives These should be in line with the University’s strategic plan and reflect Faculty/College/Division/Units objectives and annual operational plans. 4. Discuss and agree development plans This should focus on knowledge/skills & attitudes required to meet the objectives and future development plans. It could also relate to building on strengths, addressing areas requiring improvement or meeting future challenges or career aspirations.
4. Discuss and agree development plans 5. Discuss job satisfaction 6. Review and summarize meeting; agree the next steps You might also find the following short presentations useful. Preparing for a Performance Evaluation Meeting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXcYDF0YdIw Holding the Appraisal Meeting http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6k5U8TietxM Having the Performance Evaluation Discussion http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3UETIwTy70
Page 22 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
UTech Staff Dearly Departed The Division of Human Resources & Administration would like to pay special tribute to those members of staff who have recently passed on:
Ms. Brittney Mighty (Personnel Assistant) Division of Human Resources & Administration
Ms. Mary Brown (Cleaner Attendant, Facilities Management Department)
Mr. Paul Hope (Driver) The School of Public Health
Dr. Heather Little-White (Programme Coordinator, College of Business & Management
Mr. Clive Vassell (Lecturer) The School of Business Administration
Page 23 ________________________________________________________________________________________________Volume 3 Issue 1
EXTERNAL PERSONS
To those persons who assisted us with our HR activities during the period, we want to say Thank You All!! SPONSORS
National Health Fund
Sagicor Life Jamaica Limited
Guardian Life Jamaica Limited
Marksman Limited
UTECH STAFF
Jennifer Valentine and the Accounting Staff
Alphanzo Frazer
Partick Vassell & the Printery Staff
Division of HR & Admin Staff
Michelle Thompson and the Library staff
Lillian’s Restaurant
The Procurement Dept. Staff
Ivor Bennett & the Marketing Staff
Finance and Business Services
Ms. Gail-Ann King (Human Resources Advisor, Barbados Light & Power Company Limited)
Mr. Ian Kenyon (CEO Harris Paints-Barbados)
Mr. Rickert Allen , (Senior General Manager, HR – NCB)
Mr. Andrew Dale (Ministry of Labour)
Dr. Fitzroy Henry ( Professor of Public Health Nutrition –COHS & Formerly of The Caribbean Food and Nutrition Institute, CFNI)
Dr. Paul Miller (Professor of Educational Leadership, School of Graduate Studies, Research & Entrepreneurship , UTECH).
Her Excellency Mrs. Mathu Joyini (South African High Commissioner to Jamaica)
Mrs. Christine Hendricks (Executive Director of the Jamaica Council for Persons with Disabilities JCPD)
Dr. Carolyn Gomes (Executive Director of Jamaicans for Justice)
Mr. Dane Lewis (Executive Director of Jamaica’s Premier Human Rights Organization & Executive Member of CariFLAGS, the Caribbean Forum for Liberation and Acceptance of Genders & Sexualities)
Ms. Brenda Cuthbert (CEO, Jamaica Employers’ Federation -JEF)
Mr. Michael McAnuff-Jones ( President , Human Resources Management Association of Jamaica HRMAJ)
EXTERNAL PERSONS
Rev. The Honourable Ronald Thwaites, MP
The Honourable Dr. Fenton Ferguson, DDS, MP
Honourable Derrick Kellier, CD, MP
Mr. Gary Peart (CEO, Mayberry Investment Limited)
Ms. Jeneita Townsend (General Manager, Human Resources - National Housing Trust)
Ocho Rios Primary School Choir
Dr. Phillip Brown (Group Director, Human Resource Training & Service Standards -Sandals Resort International)
All the vendors who participated in the Professional Dev. Seminar
*To those persons who have helped us but were not mentioned, we want to say, THANK YOU! We are indeed grateful for your contribution in making our initiatives successful.
Page 24
HR FOcus________________________________________________________________________________________July 2013 Division of HR & Administration INTERNAL DIRECTORY
HUMAN RESOURCES
Training For May-June 2013 A series of workshops are schedule to commence in May and June, 2013 to assist supervisors and their staff to better understand the performance management and appraisal functions and to provide guidance on the process. For details of the workshops, please contact Norma Messam or Heather Crosby in the Human Resource Development Unit, Division of Human Resources and Administration.
ANDERSON, Kamla
3030
BARRETT, Janet
2895
BOLTON-FYFFE, Andrea
2815
BRANCH, Millicent
2814
CARRIDICE Roberta
2007
COOK, Jacqueline
2896
DUNLOP, Laphane
2473
ELLIS, Jennifer
2086
FINDLAYSON, Andrea
2812
JONES, Sheryl
2070
JUNOR, Urla
2813
LESLIE, Maureen
2894
McCREATH, Racquel
2893
McPHERSON, Rachana
3031
MESSAM-HINDS, Norma
2886
RICHMOND, Sangay
2090
ROCHESTER, Veniesha
2897
ROCKHEAD-REID, Antoinette
2456
SMITH, Jacqueline
2892
SOUTH, Dahoma
2814
WEATHERLY, Ava
2069
WILLIAMS-CROSBY, Heather
2811
Medical Centre
What seven -letter word has hundreds of letters in it?
Counselling Unit
WHITE, Heather
3522
HARDWARE, Andrea
3531
Nurses Station
2466
CUSTOMER SERVICE & OFFICE SERVICES
Answer: Mailbox Your Views
BAINES, Alicea
2846
The HR Focus Newsletter will be published
BLAKE, Damart
2038
on a quarterly basis. If there is something you wish us to include in our newsletter , or a topic you would like us to cover in a future issue, or any academic achievements you have obtained, please e-mail the details to HrFocus@utech.edu.jm.
BROWN, Sedonnie
2844
BROWN, Norman
2038
CAMPBELL, Shaneka
2038
FRANCIS, Michelle
2009
FULLER, Debbie
2009
Eves-McKenzie, Patricia
2028
McAnuff, Yenola
2029
McNally, Craig
2460
Psychiatrist/Psychologist
3529
LEWIS, Michael
2038
PEART, Michael
2038
PESSOA, Tracey-Ann
2848
RICHARDS, Larketh
2038
ROBINSON, Kenrick
2038
STEWART, Eustace
2038
TOMLINSON, Eval
2038