"In March of 2020, along with the rest of the world, we pivoted overnight to working from home. In conducting regular “pulse surveys,” we learned that our staff needed a place to come together where they could have a personal connection with their colleagues. Staff were missing the workplace culture from the office and needed extra support during the uncertain times.
We developed #AARTogether with the purpose to create and foster a thriving, staff-centric culture, and to encourage community in Advancement and Alumni Relations (AAR). Our aim was to provide engagement opportunities to create connections, share interests, and maintain strong relationships during these trying times and beyond.
Endorsed by our vice president and led by talent management, we nominated five staff members to serve on the committee to represent their units, help execute events, and be a communication bridge to their units. We have had four committees since April 2020, with each committee serving approximately eight months. This totals to 20 staff members who have been empowered to serve in this leadership capacity!
From April 2020 to August 2021, #AARTogether operated virtually. During the pandemic and our work from home days, we held 100 activities with more than 1,000 participants. Activities ranged from professional development sessions to interest groups, to blogs, to interactive games, to mental health and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts. When we returned to the office in September 2021, we moved our programming to in-person and we have evolved to provide the most meaningful programming."
From the Judges
Judges really liked how the nominator was able to show tangible impact through staff survey data. Kudos for addressing one of the biggest issues with remote and hybrid working—lack of sense of community and belonging.
