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Personal Development
Welcome to our Personal Development page, your ultimate resource for transformative and inspiring content! Offered each month, our dynamic series dives into a variety of topics designed to elevate the personal growth of Extension staff. From boosting physical and mental wellness to advancing career development and lifelong learning, we provide something for everyone. Packed with actionable insights and motivational guidance, these sessions are designed to spark change, inspire growth, and help you reach your full potential. Explore our page and unlock new opportunities for self-improvement and success!
Personal Development Series
Join us on the second Tuesday of each month for educational and inspirational speaker sessions designed to explore, enhance, and elevate Extension staff in all areas of personal development. From taking care of our physical and mental wellness to gaining education to enhance our careers, we offer something for everyone!
August 12, 2025 | 10 to 11 AM
Join Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services (FSAWS) Assistant Director, Sara Maxwell and Program Assistant, Yasmin Ofiana, to learn about the support available to faculty and staff seeking to create and maintain sustainable, healthy habits. Together, we will:
- discover the goal and functions of FSAWS
- review the complimentary counseling services available to faculty, staff, retirees, and their household members
- explore the wellness activities, challenges, and programs available to help faculty and staff reach their goals—
in all eight dimensions of wellness!
The Illinois Value Proposition (IVP) reflects what makes working at the University of Illinois truly distinctive. Grounded in employee input, it highlights the unique blend of tangible benefits, emotional and social connections, and the broader organizational landscape that shape our work environment. By exploring the IVP, employees can see how their personal values align with Illinois’ culture and how their priorities connect to their work and community.
This two part series will be presented by Bria Marcelo, Assistant Chancellor for Culture, Learning, and Engagement.
September 9, 2025 | 10 to 11 AM
Session 1: Understanding Our Illinois Value Proposition (IVP)
This session provides a comprehensive overview of the IVP framework, including its core objectives and key benefits. Participants will explore examples that illustrate how IVP is applied and will conclude with a demonstration of an IVP resource.
October 14, 2025 | 10 to 11 AM
Session 2: Building Your Illinois Value Proposition (IVP)
This interactive session focuses on applying IVP concepts using the IVP Builder tool. After a brief review of IVP fundamentals, participants will complete the IVP Builder to design their own IVP. The session will include a guided peer discussion on how to effectively integrate IVP into their day-to-day work.
Join Cook County Extension Educator Michele Crawford for Meditation Mornings. This free virtual series is open to staff and community members and consists of fifteen-minute guided meditation sessions held every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from August 11 through October 17, 2025. Learn tools and techniques to support your overall well-being. All are welcome; no prior meditation experience is necessary!
Benefits Beyond the Job
Discover perks that support your personal growth—like Rosetta Stone access, wellness resources, and more to help you thrive beyond the workplace.
Learn a New Language with Rosetta Stone
Staff have free access to Rosetta Stone Foundations through the University Library. With 30 languages and advanced levels available, it's a great resource for personal or professional growth. Log in using your NetID via the Library's Rosetta Stone link. Need help getting started? Contact the Literatures and Languages Library for support.
Exercise Economically
The “Exercise Economically” resource shares practical, low-cost ways for Extension employees to stay active and improve overall wellness. It provides tips and strategies for incorporating affordable fitness into daily routines, supporting both physical health and financial well-being.
Illinois Financial Wellness Hub
The Illinois Financial Wellness Hub is a free resource that helps Extension employees strengthen their personal finances. It offers personalized tools, courses, and webinars on budgeting, saving, retirement planning, and more - empowering staff to build financial confidence and security.
Relaxation "Micro-Moments" and Winding Down Techniques
This session explores practical ways to manage stress during the workday. Participants learn how short, mindful “micro-moments” can interrupt rising stress levels, reduce exhaustion, and promote calm. The webinar also covers the neurology of stress and simple end-of-day routines for better relaxation and recovery.
Personal Development Workshop Archives
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