Dear colleagues,
I am delighted to share our first update as the Division of Operations, Finance, & Support (OF&S). Thank you for taking the time to join us for the town hall a few weeks ago. I also want to extend my deep appreciation to our strategic plan working group for their dedication and hard work in preparing our five-year plan. For those unable to join the town hall, visit the OF&S Strategic Plan website to learn more or watch the town hall recording. As we discussed in the town hall, we are embarking on a transformation journey that has excellence, innovation, and inclusion at our core. Over the next five years, we will focus our attention on providing operational excellence, unparalleled service, and care for our community. The journey ahead promises great things, and I am excited to have you all on board.
In other news, I am eager to share that Ken Jett is joining Rice and the OF&S division as the new Vice President of Facilities and Capital Planning and President of the Rice Real Estate Company. Ken brings over two decades of comprehensive commercial real estate investment management experience and has a proven track record of thriving in complex organizations by building relationships and consensus with partners, customers, and key stakeholders. As Vice President, Ken will join the President’s cabinet. I look forward to welcoming Ken to campus on April 1 and hope you’ll extend a warm Rice welcome in your interactions with him!
The end of the academic year is quickly approaching, and with that comes lots of activities and busy schedules. I encourage you to participate in these upcoming events to care for yourself and your families, celebrate our staff, and have some fun:
- Open Enrollment Time: It’s that time again! From April 8 to April 22, the HR team is ready to provide personalized assistance. Reach out via phone at 713-348-BENE (2363) or use the enrollment website for more detailed information. This year, Rice’s investment in expanding benefits reflects a deep commitment to the total well-being of our community, focusing on physical, mental, and financial health. This holistic approach creates an environment for overall health and personal development.
- RiceFest 2024Join your colleagues at the Grand Hall on April 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for Rice’s annual benefits fair. It’s a great way to learn more about all the benefits Rice offers, meet our benefits vendors, and snag some door prizes! More details about RiceFest can be found online and in the Admin Forum today.
- Staff Appreciation with President DesRoches: Save the date for Thursday, April 18, at 9 a.m. for a memorable morning with President DesRoches as we celebrate our incredible staff. This fun-filled event will be held at Tudor Fieldhouse, with breakfast and great swag available for those joining in person. A live stream will be provided for our remote staff.
- KTRU DUO Guest DJ: Join me on Wednesday, March 27, at 11 a.m. as I host an hour of my favorite songs on KTRU online. As a guest of the Dean of Undergraduates, I look forward to sharing great music and insights on OF&S.
Thank you for all you do for one another, our division, and the Rice community.
All my best to you,
Kelly