All employees are invited to Employee Appreciation Ice Cream Socials on Tuesday, June 11 and Thursday, June 13. This annual event is held to thank employees for their hard work and dedication. On June 11, from 1-2:30 p.m., UW‒Madison leaders will be handing out free Babcock ice cream on Bascom Hill (weather permitting) and as supplies last. Ice cream will be served in cups in two areas of Bascom Hill, including one area with flat or gentle surface slopes for greater accessibility. In case of rain or severe weather, the event will move to Birge Hall. On June 13, from 10 p.m. to midnight, there will be free Babcock ice cream in the Lake Mendota Room at Dejope Residence Hall for second- and third-shift employees. Additional details, including parking and transportation tips, can be found at go.wisc.edu/99c162.

All UW–Madison employees are paid biweekly on Thursdays. Benefits deductions for insurance premiums and voluntary benefit elections are taken across the first two biweekly paychecks paid in the month. In May 2024, there are three pay dates of May 2, May 16, and May 30. The paycheck on May 30 will include only the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) deduction; deductions for insurance premiums and voluntary benefit elections 403b Supplemental Retirement Program and Wisconsin Deferred Compensation 457b will not be taken. The check paid on June 6, 2024, will resume all benefits deductions.

A new video, “Benefits 2024: Benefits Overview for UW–Madison Employees,” is now available online in six languages. The video provides a concise summary of important benefits options in easy-to-understand language, with versions available in English, Spanish, Hmong, Tibetan, Chinese and Nepali. The video provides employees who are eligible for the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) with basic information about WRS, health insurance, supplemental insurance, and life and disability insurance. The information is designed for new employees and anyone who would like to refresh their knowledge of benefits. Learn more about benefits and find the videos at hr.wisc.edu/benefits.

Career Development@UW is a new virtual learning series designed to empower employees to take charge of their careers and explore opportunities for growth within UW–Madison. Three upcoming workshops are offered. The first workshop, scheduled for Wednesday, June 5, 11 a.m. to noon, will be an introduction to career development, career planning, and the resources available for career growth at UW–Madison. Additional workshops will be offered on creating an action plan to achieve career goals on July 23, and professional development with the 70–20–10 model on August 22. UW faculty and staff may attend single sessions or all three at no cost. Register to receive the Zoom link.