Today's Update: Staff Appreciation Week

July 27, 2026

Dear Student Life team,

It's Staff Appreciation Week, which is another great opportunity to tell you how much I appreciate you and all that you do. Our Student Life team is the Scarlet and Greatest, and I am honored to serve with you every day.  

I’m sure you know that Appreciation, along with Care, Support and Connection, makes up our Student Life Culture Commitments. I hope you also realize that these are not just words, but foundational elements that guide our work and our interactions. The many stories I consistently hear about how you all demonstrate compassion and kindness to our students – and to each other – are a testament to the strength and commitment of the entire division. 

The centerpiece of our Staff Appreciation activities this year is the branded polo shirts you were able to order recently. Please wear the polo proudly (particularly on Scarlet and Gray Fridays!). If you’re eligible but missed the deadline to submit your size, watch for a follow-up email or contact Jen Vandemark (vandemark.46@osu.edu).  

The university has a number of other expressions of gratitude planned. Check out the Human Resources Website for details on all the special activities and discounts planned – such as a variety of campus tours and experiences as well as discounted tickets to the Ohio State Fair, Clippers baseball games and the Faculty and Staff Appreciation Football Game.  

You can also recognize other team members through Student Life’s Be Kind website where you can send kudos to colleagues.  

Happy Staff Appreciation Week, though please know you are appreciated ALL yearlong! You are Scarlet and Great and I appreciate you very much.  

  

Melissa S. Shivers, PhD 
Senior Vice President for Student Life  
The Ohio State University