The Benefits Open Enrollment period is currently underway and will end at 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 31, 2025. Employees who need more information in order to make informed decisions about benefits may wish to attend a live, virtual presentation of “Benefits 2026: What You Need to Know” on October 15, 16, or 22 via Zoom. This session includes a review of 2026 benefits changes, information on how to enroll, and time for questions and answers. The recorded presentation is available for viewing 24/7 on YouTube. Links to these and other resources can be found at benefits.wisc.edu/2026.

Each year, UW–Madison and Universities of Wisconsin honor academic staff members for their achievements and dedication to excellence. The UW‒Madison Academic Staff Excellence Awards will honor nine individuals in seven categories. The deadline for nominations is 11:59 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.

Nominations are also open for the 2026 Alliant Energy Underkofler Excellence in Teaching Award. This award recognizes outstanding undergraduate teaching at Universities of Wisconsin institutions within the Alliant service area. Nominations for this award are also due Dec. 8, 2025.

The Learn@UW team is offering a one-hour workshop to introduce the basics of AI using UW–‍Madison approved artificial intelligence tools: Microsoft Copilot and Google Gemini. This hands-on session will show attendees how to log in, write a successful prompt, protect university information, and think critically about the results these tools provide. Sessions will be held Monday, Oct. 20, noon–1 p.m., and Wednesday, Nov. 12, noon–1 p.m. via Zoom. UW–Madison employees may attend at no cost.

LifeMatters and the Employee Assistance Office are offering a virtual webinar, Holiday Stress, on Tuesday, Oct. 28, noon-1 p.m. via Zoom. Participants will learn how to create a holiday season that is relaxed, fun, and comfortable. This session will explore topics such as finding the meaning in the holiday season, evaluating traditions, relieving stress, tips for parents, and managing the holiday blues. The webinar is offered at no cost to all UW–Madison employees.