To include UW-Madison second and third shift employees, this year's forum will have an extended format with the opening at 8 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 1, and the last session of the day at 11 p.m. The final session will focus on the fundamental values, traditions, and expectations of the UW Madison campus community. This experience will provide access to campus culture, and aims to make our campus more inclusive, especially of second and third shift employees and English language learners. This session will promote the ideas of living together as a campus community. For a full schedule and to register, visit diversity.wisc.edu/forums/ or call (608) 265-5228.

The Faculty Senate has approved revisions to the Academic Calendar for academic years 2017 through 2021, including more predictable, even-length semesters of 69 days of instruction over 15 weeks. The summary period will also be shortened by one day and no exams will be held on the day of commencement. View the calendar at secfac.wisc.edu/academic-calendar.htm.

Getting new tech is easier than ever before, thanks to a new benefit for current faculty and staff. Now you can shop for yourself, your family and your friends at the DoIT Tech Store and pay with a new option known as Payroll Deduction. This no-interest payment plan allows you to pay off your purchase in six or 12 months, via monthly deductions from your paycheck. Eligible employees just need to spend $400 or more and provide a 10 percent down payment at time of purchase to use Payroll Deduction. There is a nominal processing fee of $25.

Register now for the second annual UW-Madison Wellness Symposium on Tuesday, Nov. 15, at Union South. The theme is Wellness Now: Being Our Best Selves in the Current Moment. Sessions cover everything from managing stress and eating healthily to creating a desk garden. The event is open to faculty, staff and students who are looking to care for themselves in the midst of their everyday lives. For more information, visit uwell.wisc.edu.