Of all the things we are missing these days, human connections are near the top of the list. It’s “The UP Way” to create and feel part of a vibrant, caring community. The Garaventa Center offers a modest proposal for connecting with colleagues: a new program we call Person to Person. Reach out to have a physically distant cup of coffee with someone when you’re on campus. Call someone to ask them their best Zoom tip or, even better, just see how they are doing. People who’ve been here a while check in with our newest colleagues and make a human connection.
Over the years, many friendships and collaborations have been formed at Thirst Fridays, and while those are shuttered for now, Person to Person might help us remember that we are all in this extraordinary endeavor together. The goal is 100 connections made by the end of the semester. Let us know you’ve made a personal connection (eifler@up.edu) –no details needed, just tell us you’ve connected with someone from UP. A private donor committed to nurturing humane, collegial relationships has provided funds that allow for one person each week to receive a Starbucks gift card. Names will be pulled on Fridays from all who have noted they made a Person to Person connection (again, NO details needed; this is 100% honor system). The more Person to Person connections you make, the more chances you have to win.
The Garaventa Center offers its patio on the 3rd floor of Franz for your conversations. It’s also a great place just to think and Be. You are most welcome here.
For more information contact Karen Eifler, Garaventa Center, at eifler@up.edu.