Stony Brook University celebrated its employees with a special Employee Appreciation Day March 7 at the Charles B. Wang Center.
Over 800 employees attended the event, which featured breakfast, giveaways, information tables, raffle drawings, and a tribute to the dedication and hard work of staff across campus. Recognition was also given to those employees who worked behind the scenes to make the event possible, as well as the generous raffle donors, the Auxiliary Services Association and the Staller Center.
Interim President Richard L. McCormick welcomed the crowd, and highlighted Stony Brook’s deep appreciation for its employees. “Whether it’s through your commitment to uplifting the university’s reputation as a flagship institution, your investment in the health and well-being of our communities, or your innovation in research and teaching, you help Stony Brook make a difference,” he said. “You help this great institution not only meet our expectations but exceed them every day.”
“This is our opportunity to celebrate YOU and acknowledge the vital role you play in shaping the positive and impactful environment at Stony Brook,” said Jennifer Donnelly, interim vice president of Human Resource Services, in an email invitation to employees. “YOU are the excellence that defines Stony Brook and strengthens us as the economic engine of Long Island. So get ready to feel appreciated, motivated, and proud to be part of the SBU family — from appreciation swag and raffles to gratitude grams and a continental breakfast, we can’t wait to celebrate YOU.”
Employees also had the opportunity to explore a Wellness Space, featuring teas and make your own aromatherapy body scrubs.
Faculty and staff were encouraged to participate in BeHeard, the university’s first voluntary, confidential employee engagement survey launching on March 24. The survey is designed to give employees a voice in areas like professional development, workplace culture and recognition. “Your input will help drive positive change,” Donnelly said. “It’s all about recognizing your hard work and ensuring your voice is heard — because you truly deserve it.” For more information on the Be Heard survey, including the intended audience and how Be Heard may differ from other surveys sent within our Stony Brook ecosystem, visit stonybrook.edu/hrnow/beheard.
Throughout the event, employees visited various tables offering resources on benefits, professional development, wellness programs and recognition initiatives. The Culture and Engagement table promoted new programs such as the Employee Service Pin Program and Buddy/Mentor Program, while the Gratitude Grams station provided a space for colleagues to send messages of appreciation to one another.
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