For those of you who don’t know me, I serve as the staff Human Resources Consultant for Mendoza. I began this position in February 2020, three weeks before most of us were sent home to work remotely. So unfortunately, many of the ways I would normally get to know each of you was abruptly interrupted. However, I have been fortunate to meet many of you via Zoom and most recently at some in person gatherings.

At a high level, the Office of Human Resources offers support to all faculty and staff across the University in many different capacities. Our goal is to steward the University’s mission and cultivate a culture of well-being where staff and faculty can thrive. First and foremost, we partner with employees all across campus to preserve a workplace environment that is welcoming, diverse and free from harassment. We also administer our vast employee benefit offerings such as medical, wellness and retirement plans.

We offer unparalleled professional development opportunities to our staff and faculty so they can develop their inner champions and build their careers through our in-person and online courses, learning series, leadership programs and learning-at-work academy. We also provide support and resources to employees who require special work accommodations (ADA).

All faculty and staff have dedicated HR resources on campus for employment guidance, questions and concerns. Lynn Kalamaros serves in this role for Mendoza faculty.

My role as the HR Consultant is to be a key conduit and liaison to staff in the College. I am here to provide guidance and support to managers and employees. My emphasis is on issues related to performance management and employee relations. Five areas of particular focus are culture, talent, organizational structure, employee development and structure.

Mendoza is fortunate to have a dedicated leader in Kara Palmer, who provides strategic leadership and manages staff priorities in the College. While Kara is often the first point of contact in the College, I work very closely with her on various issues that involve Human Resources. We partner on strategic initiatives, professional development, employee relations, DE&I initiatives as well as many other topics that arise.

Please reach out to me anytime. I am happy to help guide you to the right person if I don't have the answer to your question. Our People Services team (formally askHR) is another valuable resource. They can answer specific questions you might have regarding leaves, benefits, etc. You can reach them at askhr@nd.edu or 631-5900.

I look forward to 2022 and getting to know each of you better. Please let me know if I can be of service.

Yours in Notre Dame,

Jen

Jennifer LaPrad

Human Resources Consultant

Office of Human Resources