Grocery Store Tours Begin Jan. 25

Register for a free grocery store tour led by University of Idaho dietetic students 1:30-2:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, at the Moscow Food Co-Op. Learn shopping tips and strategies to help you stick to your budget and navigate a grocery store with ease. Tours are offered at local grocery stores on different dates. Pre-registration is required and space in each tour is limited. Learn more and register.
 

Register by Jan. 26 for Avalanche Rescue Fundamentals

Learn the basics of avalanche rescue with a day practicing skills such as beacon recovery, strategic shoveling and team rescue. The class is 5:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, and the field session is Saturday, Jan. 30. The cost for students is $85, and the cost for non-students is $110. Register at the Outdoor Program Office by Tuesday, Jan. 26. Contact the Outdoor Program at 208-885-6810 with questions. Learn more.
 

Thirsty Thursday Trivia With the VandalStore Is Jan. 28

Attend a virtual Thirsty Thursday Trivia night at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, online via Zoom. The event is sponsored by the VandalStore and Office of Alumni Relations. This virtual happy hour will include trivia questions based on food, pop culture and the National Football League/Super Bowl. Join hosts Shelby Silflow ’98 from the VandalStore in Moscow and Scott Smith ’09 from the VandalStore in Boise to win prizes and connect with others. Register online.
 

Nominations Are Being Accepted for the Dr. Arthur Maxwell Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award

The Office of Equity and Diversity is accepting nominations for the Dr. Arthur Maxwell Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award. One $4,000 award is given annually to a University of Idaho faculty member. The award may go to tenured, tenure-track, clinical or full-time adjunct/instructors/lecturers who have completed a minimum of three years at the university. The faculty member can only receive the award once during their employment at the university. Submit award nominations and supporting letters to Mykel Johnson at majohnson@uidaho.edu by Friday, Jan. 29.
 

Register for a Green Dot Workshop for Faculty and Staff Feb. 16

Attend a virtual Green Dot workshop for faculty and staff 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, via Zoom. The workshop introduces the basic elements of the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program, focusing on the role university employees play in establishing and reinforcing campus culture. This training is interactive and action-oriented. Register online.
 

Make a Nomination for Staff Awards by Feb. 28

Nominations for the 2021 Outstanding Employee Awards, Staff Educational Awards, Outstanding Team Award and the Lawrence C. McBride Prize are open and due by Sunday, Feb. 28. The awards and prizes will be presented in the spring. Learn more and make nominations. 
 

VandalStar Tips for a Successful Semester Start

Take a few minutes to complete the following VandalStar steps to connect and support students. Tip one: “Edit Profile” — or create one if you are a new user — with key information on how students can contact and meet you. Tip two: Set “Direct Links” if you are using the appointment scheduling feature in the “Edit Profile” tab. This link will take students directly to your online scheduling calendar to set up a meeting. Tip three: Be sure to select the “General Appointment” setting when setting up office hours so any student can schedule a meeting with you through the system. Tip four: Check your meeting locations to be sure they are accurate — under the “Appointment Preferences” tab. Tip five: Raise VandalStar alert flags and give kudos right away so students can keep informed about how they’re doing. Learn more online or request a 1:1 or small group learning session.
 

University Advising Services Is on Instagram

Check out University Advising Services on Instagram for updates on advising, registration information, reminders and to learn more about resources and opportunities on campus.

Writers, Artists and Scientists Tackle Environmental Issues

How can we solve complex problems like climate change? With all hands on deck. The Confluence Lab unites artists and scientists to tackle environmental issues. Learn more.

U of I Women’s Center Awarded Nearly $300,000 for Violence Prevention

The Women’s Center received the continuation of a $299,944 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women to fund the Campus Violence Prevention Project. The grant will fund ongoing efforts to develop and implement culturally relevant and community responsive prevention education programming as well as victim services at the university. Read more.

• IdahoSTARS Child Care Health Consultant, Twin Falls, Center on Disabilities and Human Development
• Director, Development, University Development
• Program Coordinator, Strategic Enrollment Management, Enrollment Management
• Twin Falls County Extension Administrative Assistant, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Supervisor Resources for Managing Mandatory Furlough Are Available Online

As announced by President Scott Green on June 18, 2020, employees are required to take furlough between the start of their FY21 contract and Saturday, Jan. 23, to meet current fiscal year budget holdbacks. Each employee’s required leave has been added to their leave bank and is visible to them in VandalWeb. It is the supervisor’s responsibility to ensure their employees take assigned leave. To assist supervisors, additional resources are online. Learn how to track the remaining balance for those you supervise and find commonly requested information about calculating furlough for new employees and how to calculate prorated furlough for employees separating before Jan. 23.

Submit Your Feedback on New Policies

The Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President is seeking faculty and staff feedback on the new policies for promotion/tenure (FSH 3500) and third-year review (FSH 3510). All feedback is appreciated. Complete the survey by tomorrow, Jan. 20.
 

Dedicated Student Activity Fee Proposal Presentations Are Jan. 21

Presentations of the student fee proposals for the student activity fee will start at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, via Zoom. Unit leaders requesting increases will present their dedicated student activity fee proposals for FY22. The meeting passcode is 962881.
 

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Virtual Keynote Address Is Jan. 21

Join for the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration Keynote Address, 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 21, via Zoom. Edward Onaci, associate professor of History and African American and Africana Studies and author of “Free the Land,” will present “Free the Land! The New Afrikan Independence Movement and the Biographical Consequences of Social Movement Activism.” Register online.
 

Register for a Green Dot Workshop for Faculty and Staff Jan. 22

Attend a virtual Green Dot safety workshop for faculty and staff from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, via Zoom. The workshop introduces the basic elements of the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program, focusing on the role university employees play in establishing and reinforcing campus culture. This training is interactive and action oriented. Register online.
 

OAPF Receives Additional Financial Support in FY21

The University of Idaho Open Access Publishing Fund (OAPF) has received additional financial support from the Office of the Provost and the University of Idaho Library to pay for article processing charges in eligible open access journals. The U of I OAPF will reopen at 9 a.m. Monday, Jan. 25, with an additional allocation of $20,000. Applications that meet all eligibility criteria are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Contact OAPF Fund Manager Jylisa Doney for more information.
 

Apply to Limited Submission Funding Opportunities

The Research and Faculty Development team in the Office of Research and Economic Development is requesting notice of intent to apply to the following new limited submission funding opportunities with upcoming notice of intent deadlines: Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research New Innovator in Food and Agriculture Research Award, with a concept paper deadline of Monday, Jan. 25; 2022 Pew Scholars Program in the Biomedical Sciences, with a notice of intent deadline of Monday, Feb. 1; and Enhancing Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Educational Diversity Research Education Experiences, with a notice of intent deadline of Feb. 1. For more information and to apply to these and other open limited submission funding opportunities, select the program from the table on the U of I InfoReady Review homepage. Contact the Research and Faculty Development Limited Submissions team at ored-rfd-limitedsub@uidaho.edu with questions.
 

Spring Semester Virtual Q&A Talks With Torrey Are Scheduled

Provost and Executive Vice President Torrey Lawrence will host five Q&A conversations with faculty and staff this spring from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. via Zoom. The event is scheduled for alternating Wednesdays and Thursdays on the following dates: Jan. 27, Feb. 4, March 3, April 1 and April 28. Participants are invited to ask questions in advance, during the event or just listen to the discussion. Questions submitted in advance will help shape the conversation and should be submitted at least 24 hours prior to the event. Authenticated U of I email addresses will have access to the Zoom meeting. The waiting room is enabled. Learn more.
 

Student Financial Aid Office Is Temporarily Relocated

The Student Financial Aid Office is under maintenance due to a water leak. The front desk is temporarily closed. Students who require walk-in assistance can visit staff in their temporary location — Bruce M. Pitman Center Suite 137 (Strategic Enrollment Management). Students can still contact the office at finaid@uidaho.edu or 208-885-6312, or contact work study at finaid-workstudy@uidaho.edu.
 

VandalStar Expands Online Referral Options to Help Students

Faculty and staff now have six ways to connect students in a timely and virtual way to free campus resources and services. This is by using the VandalStar referral feature. The six programs ready to serve students using this online referral system are: Academic Tutoring, Academic Coaching, Pre-Health Professions, Career Services, BEAMS and Student Support Services-TRIO. Learn more.
 

Vandal Poem of the Day Is Back

After a brief hiatus, Vandal Poem of the Day (VPOD) is back. A collaboration between the library’s Center for Digital Inquiry and Learning and the English Department’s literary journal, Fugue, VPOD is a public poetry project that works to bring relevant contemporary poetry to the University of Idaho community and beyond. This year, VPOD will feature poets from Four Way Books, which operates out of lower Manhattan, New York, and has been publishing poems since 1995. VPOD will feature some of the most recent titles from Four Way Books, including work from Tommye Blount, Yona Harvey and John Murillo.
 

Recruiting Breastfeeding Mothers for Research on Food Allergies

Researchers at U of I are recruiting breastfeeding mothers aged 18 years or older, and their infants aged 0-12 months old, to participate in a study exploring the detection of cow’s milk and soy proteins in breastmilk. If you live near Moscow or Boise and are breastfeeding, you may be eligible to participate. Participation would require completing several questionnaires, eliminating cow’s milk and soy products from your diet for several days, consuming soy and cow’s milk daily for several days and providing samples of breastmilk and maternal/infant stool. Participants can receive up to $200 for participation. Contact Cassandra Partridge at milk-allergens@uidaho.edu or 208-301-3740 for more information.
 

Pedestrians: Be Alert, Be Safe

As anyone who has tried to cross campus when classes are changing knows, there are a lot of people walking on and around campus. While drivers, bicyclists and skateboarders are often reminded to be alert for pedestrians, we as pedestrians need to work to ensure our safety as well. This is especially true during wet and cold seasons, when footing is more treacherous and vehicles can’t stop as quickly. Wear traction devices when appropriate and never assume a driver can see you or will be able to stop in time to grant you the right of way. Visit the I-Safety webpage for more steps pedestrians can take to be safe.

Auditorium Chamber Music Series Offers Spring Events

The Auditorium Chamber Music Series will present events this spring featuring world-renowned artists St. Lawrence String Quartet and Chanticleer. Join the quartet for free educational events this month that are open to the public. Zoom registration is required. Read more.
 

Confluence Lab, Partners Address Pacific NW Justice Issues With $4.5 Million Grant

The University of Idaho Confluence Lab, University of Oregon and Whitman College were awarded a three-year $4.52 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation to launch the Pacific Northwest Just Futures Institute that will address racial and climate justice issues. Read more.

New U of I Degree Program Works to Fill Demand for Cybersecurity Professionals

This story was produced by Doug Nadvornick of Spokane Public Radio and published on Jan. 10.

Russia’s recent hack of United States government agencies and private companies has brought the spotlight back to America’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities. It also brought a spotlight to the reality that the U.S. doesn’t have nearly enough qualified people who work in the cybersecurity field. The University of Idaho is working to fill the demand with a new bachelor’s degree program. Read more.

• IdahoSTARS Child Care Health Consultant, Twin Falls, Center on Disabilities and Human Development
• Director, Development, University Development
• Program Coordinator, Strategic Enrollment Management, Enrollment Management
• Twin Falls County Extension Administrative Assistant, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Subscribe to ‘U of I in the News’

University Communications and Marketing compiles and distributes via email a daily list of University of Idaho-related stories in the media. If you’d like to receive “University of Idaho in the News,” email Brian Walker, external communications coordinator, at bwalker@uidaho.edu.

Seeking University Events Council Meeting Feedback

Thank you to all who attended the university-wide Events Council Meeting. Your time is appreciated, and the feedback you provided is valued. Your feedback is sought regarding the initial meeting on Jan. 11. Sub-committee selection and feedback can be provided online by Wednesday, Jan. 20. The session was recorded and is available online.
 

Submit Your Feedback on New Policies

The Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President is seeking faculty and staff feedback on the new policies for promotion/tenure (FSH 3500) and third-year review (FSH 3510). All feedback is appreciated. Complete the survey by Wednesday, Jan. 20.
 

Register by Jan. 26 for Avalanche Rescue Fundamentals

Learn the basics of avalanche rescue with a focused day practicing skills such as beacon recovery, strategic shoveling and team rescue. The class is 5:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29, and the field session is Saturday, Jan. 30. The cost for students is $85, and the cost for non-students is $110. Register at the Outdoor Program Office by Tuesday, Jan. 26. Contact the Outdoor Program at 208-885-6810 with questions. Learn more.
 

Make a Nomination for Staff Awards by Feb. 28

Nominations for the 2021 Outstanding Employee Awards, Staff Educational Awards, Outstanding Team Award and the Lawrence C. McBride Prize are open and due by Sunday, Feb. 28. The awards and prizes will be presented in the spring. Learn more and make nominations.
 

Spring Outdoor Program Schedule Is Announced

Experience the outdoors this winter with an avalanche course, snowshoe trip or cross-country ski tour. Sign up at the Outdoor Program office located in the Student Recreation Center. Contact the Outdoor Program at 208-885-6810 with questions. Learn more.
 

VandalStar Tips for a Successful Semester Start

Take a few minutes to complete the following VandalStar steps to connect and support students. Tip one: “Edit Profile” — or create one if you are a new user — with key information on how students can contact and meet you. Tip two: Set “Direct Links” if you are using the appointment scheduling feature in the “Edit Profile” tab. This link will take students directly to your online scheduling calendar to set up a meeting. Tip three: Be sure to select the “General Appointment” setting when setting up office hours so any student can schedule a meeting with you through the system. Tip four: Check your meeting locations to be sure they are accurate – under the “Appointment Preferences” tab. Tip five: Raise VandalStar alert flags and give kudos right away so students can keep informed about how they’re doing. Learn more online or request a 1:1 or small group learning session.
 

Zoom Lab and Study Space Is Available

Zoom lab and study space is available on the third floor of the Student Health Center. These spaces are drop-in only and can be used for up to 75 minutes. Weekday hours are from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Email vineyard@uidaho.edu with questions. Learn more.

Band, Orchestra Students Invited to Participate in World Premiere Composition

The University of Idaho Lionel Hampton School of Music invites all ninth through 12th grade band and orchestra students throughout the United States to perform in a virtual world premiere composition created by U of I Professor Dan Bukvich. Festival Fanfare was composed to commemorate the 44th annual University of Idaho Band and Orchestra Festival and designed to incorporate virtual performance recordings from participating high school musicians. Read more.

Idaho Moose Research Shows Potential Causes of Recent Declines

University of Idaho scientists in collaboration with the Idaho Department of Fish and Game — which manages the state’s Shiras moose and sets hunting regulations — are exploring why some Idaho moose populations are on the decline. Researchers in the four-year study, led by Janet Rachlow, professor of wildlife ecology in U of I’s College of Natural Resources, are also collaborating with biologists in Maine and Wyoming where similar reductions in moose populations seem to coincide with tick and parasite infestations. Read more.

• IdahoSTARS Child Care Health Consultant, Twin Falls, Center on Disabilities and Human Development
• Director, Development, University Development
• Program Coordinator, Strategic Enrollment Management, Enrollment Management
• Twin Falls County Extension Administrative Assistant, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Explore the Outdoors This Weekend

Explore the Palouse and beyond during the upcoming three-day weekend. All rentals are three-day rentals for the price of a regular weekend. This includes skis, snowboards, cross-country skis, snowshoes and backcountry gear. View equipment. Contact the Outdoor Rental Center at 208-885-6710 or stownsend@uidaho.edu with questions.
 

No Daily Register Jan. 18

There will be no Daily Register Monday, Jan. 18, due to the Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday. The Daily Register will resume its normal schedule Tuesday, Jan. 19. Submit an item for the newsletter.
 

Group Fitness Classes Are Available Starting Jan. 25

Stretch your mind and body with Recreation and Wellbeing’s fitness program, which offers a variety of ways to get fit and have fun. Classes are limited to 10 participants and begin Monday, Jan. 25. Email nathanp@uidaho.edu with questions. Learn more.
 

2021 All Employee Required Training Plan Is Announced

Thanks to all employees for achieving a 95% completion rate for the 2020 University of Idaho Annual Employee Required Training. The 2021 University Required Training will be available beginning Monday, Feb. 1, with a Sunday, Oct. 31, deadline for completion. This year’s course will contain five chapters covering discrimination and harassment (including sexual misconduct), diversity and inclusion, IT security, fire safety and stewardship of resources. All continuing regular faculty and staff, temporary faculty and staff and student employees — including graduate students — with appointments lasting longer than three months will automatically be enrolled. Please watch for an enrollment email in late January from U of I Employee Development and Learning for details regarding training access.

Lactating Grizzly Bears Use Cooling Baths to Avoid Heat Stress, U of I Study Finds

Taking a bath to relieve stress isn’t unique to humans. Bears do it too, and although they appear to enjoy taking a dip, it likely functions to help them cool down. A recent study led by University of Idaho graduate student Savannah Rogers and Associate Professor of Wildlife Sciences Ryan Long shows that grizzly bears in Yellowstone National Park take “baths” in cool water to help prevent overheating. Read more.
 

Idaho Potato Conference Moves Online Jan. 19-21

The 2021 Idaho Potato Conference will move online to offer farmers and other participants in the industry the opportunity to benefit from educational and research reports. The free three-day conference will run 8 a.m. to noon Mountain time each day, Jan. 19-21. A Spanish-language session will be held 1-3 p.m. Mountain time on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Those interested in attending must register in advance. Read more.

Vandals Post Record GPA Amid Challenging Circumstances

University of Idaho Athletics posted another incredible semester in the classroom, recording a cumulative GPA of 3.37. The mark is the highest in department history during a semester that did not include pass/fail classes. Read more.
 

JAMM’s Dane Claussen Is Nominated for VP of International Scholars Organization

Dane S. Claussen, lecturer of strategic communications in the School of Journalism and Mass Media, is one of two official nominees for vice president of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC). AEJMC, with 4,000 members in 80 countries, is the primary U.S.-based professional organization for faculty and graduate students in journalism (on all platforms), mass communication, media studies, public relations, advertising and photojournalism. Read more.
 

Kudos to Elmer Johnson and Phil Livelsberger

Elmer Johnson and Phil Livelsberger worked tirelessly – largely behind the scenes – to collect wastewater samples from more than 10 locations on campus twice each week in support of the university’s SARS-CoV2 in wastewater testing. They performed this work in addition to their normal workload. They coordinated regularly and actively with others. Elmer also made himself available via text and email outside of regular business hours.

• IdahoSTARS Child Care Health Consultant, Twin Falls, Center on Disabilities and Human Development
• Director, Development, University Development
• Program Coordinator, Strategic Enrollment Management, Enrollment Management
• Twin Falls County Extension Administrative Assistant, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science
• Senior Prospect Research Strategist, University Advancement

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Show Your Vandal Spirit Every Friday

Are you proud of being a member of the Vandal Family? Let your enthusiasm show by participating in Vandal Spirit Fridays. Each Friday, all university employees and students statewide are encouraged to wear Vandal gear and show their silver and gold colors.
 

Subscribe to ‘U of I in the News’

University Communications and Marketing compiles and distributes via email a daily list of University of Idaho-related stories in the media. If you’d like to receive “University of Idaho in the News,” email Brian Walker, external communications coordinator, at bwalker@uidaho.edu.

COVID-19 Relief Money Coming for Spring 2021 Students

Students enrolled in the Spring 2021 semester will receive money from the Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds to help provide relief for COVID-19-related costs. While the details and timeline for the release of the funds is still being determined, eligible students can expect to see funds released in a similar manner as last spring. Read more.
 

Learn About Communicating Your Policy Analysis; Register by Jan. 25

Individuals interested in science policy are invited to participate in a two-part Idaho Science and Technology Policy Fellowship professional development seminar on “Communicating Your Policy Analysis.” This interactive workshop will take place over two 1.5-hour sessions beginning from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27. In this session, learn how to develop a policy elevator pitch and a policy brief. This session will include some sample policies to pitch or participants can develop their own ideas based on their previous analysis. Register online by Monday, Jan. 25.  Read more.
 

31st Annual Vandal Scholarship Fund Gala Is Virtual Jan. 29

Join virtually in celebrating the accomplishments of our outstanding Vandal student-athletes by registering for the 31st annual Vandal Scholarship Fund Gala, 6 p.m. Friday, Jan. 29. By registering for this free event, you’ll be given early access to the online auction along with other benefits. This year’s guest speakers include President Scott Green, Director of Athletics Terry Gawlik and three-time Super Bowl champion, Fox Sports Analyst and member of the Vandal Hall of Fame Mark Schlereth. As part of the event, supporters will be able to purchase raffle tickets and enter to win an Idaho football helmet signed by Schlereth. Register online.  
 

Spring Outdoor Program Schedule Is Announced

Experience the outdoors with an avalanche course, snowshoe trip or cross-country ski tour. Sign up at the Outdoor Program Office in the Student Recreation Center. Contact the Outdoor Program at 208-885-6810 with questions. Learn more.
 

Use a Campus Winter Zoom Background

Add a blanket of snow and a dash of Vandal pride to your next virtual class or meeting with the latest Zoom backgrounds featuring Moscow wintery scenes. Learn more.

Emerson a Leader in Nuclear Field, INL Experiment Manager

Leigh Ann Emerson earned her master’s degree on a bus traveling to and from her job as an experiment manager at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). Read more.

Idaho Beef Council Invests in Industry’s Future With $250,000 Research Endowment

The Idaho Beef Council announced a $250,000 gift to the University of Idaho to expand research aimed at strengthening consumer trust in beef production. The investment of state beef checkoff dollars will establish the IBC Graduate Fellowship Endowment in the U of I College of Agricultural and Life Sciences and provide scholarship support to graduate students conducting research in topics from beef safety and nutrition attributes to quality, consistency and marketability and new product development. Read more.

Asylum Seeker Reunited With Family From Efforts of U of I Immigration Law Clinic

This article, written by Rachel Spacek, appeared in the Idaho Press on Dec. 25, 2020.

Until early December, a Guatemalan woman had been separated from her four children for more than three years. She spent over a year in the Northwest detention center in Tacoma, after she was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement at the U.S. and Mexico border. The woman, whose name is being withheld due to dangers in Guatemala, crossed the border, fleeing extreme violence in her home country to be reunited with her four children. She struggled, alone, through the immigration court system until her case was picked up by the University of Idaho immigration law clinic. Read more.

Thank You to the Registrar’s Office

Thank you to U of I Registrar Lindsey Brown, Amy Kingston, Rebecca Frost and all the staff in the Registrar’s Office for assisting the work of the University Curriculum Committee. Their hard work and dedication to the academic programs of the university is greatly appreciated.
 

U of I Professor’s Paper on Research Tools Selected as Best of 2020 by Geoscience Group

Jason W. Karl, a professor in the College of Natural Resources, was awarded the 2020 Best Paper Award for a paper published in the Journal of Librarianship and Information Science. In “Mining Location Information From Life- and Earth-Science Studies to Facilitate Knowledge Discovery,” Jason argues that, for many fields including Earth and environmental science, ecology, biodiversity and human health, knowing study locations of previously published research is important, but finding it is labor intensive. Read more.

• IdahoSTARS Child Care Health Consultant, Twin Falls, Center on Disabilities and Human Development
• Director, Development, University Development
• Program Coordinator, Strategic Enrollment Management, Enrollment Management
• Twin Falls County Extension Administrative Assistant, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science
• Senior Prospect Research Strategist, University Advancement

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Help Promote Researchers in the News

Help share U of I research with the public. Faculty members who have an upcoming journal publication and think their research is newsworthy may contact either UCM Science and Content Writer Leigh Cooper or their college’s marketing and communications manager. There may be interest in publicizing the work with a press release, social media, etc. Please reach out soon after a paper has been accepted and before publication.

Supporting Food Insecure Students Is Now Available by Request

Nearly half of all U of I students experienced food insecurity in 2019. Learn how to support students by attending the Supporting Food Insecure Students workshop. In the workshop, now available by request, participants will define food insecurity, learn what it means to be food insecure, brainstorm strategies to support students experiencing food insecurity and learn about resources. Workshop times can be tailored to last 20-60 minutes. The workshop is delivered via Zoom and is facilitated by members of the U of I Food Security Coalition. Request the workshop.

Group Fitness Classes Begin Jan. 25

Stretch your mind and body with Recreation and Wellbeing’s fitness program, which offers a variety of ways to get fit and have fun. Classes are limited to 10 participants and begin Monday, Jan. 25. Email nathanp@uidaho.edu with questions. Learn more.
 

Register for the Freshstart Vaping and Nicotine Cessation Program

Looking to kick your vaping or nicotine habit? Consider Freshstart, a four-part group nicotine cessation program to help participants increase their motivation to quit, learn effective approaches for quitting and guide successful quit attempts. Register online for the first open group session, 3 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27, via Zoom. One-on-one sessions are also available. Email aod@uidaho.edu with questions.
 

U&I Give Is Accepting Applications for Spring Crowdfunding

U&I Give is accepting applications for the spring crowdfunding cycle. Applications are due Friday, Jan. 29. Campaigns will run from Tuesday, Feb. 16, through Tuesday, March 9. Learn more and apply.
 

Nominations Are Being Accepted for the Dr. Arthur Maxwell Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award

The Office of Equity and Diversity is accepting nominations for the Dr. Arthur Maxwell Taylor Excellence in Diversity Award. One $4,000 award is given annually to a University of Idaho faculty member. The award may go to tenured, tenure-track, clinical or full-time adjunct/instructors/lecturers who have completed a minimum of three years at the university. The faculty member can only receive the award once during their employment at the university. Submit award nominations and supporting letters to Mykel Johnson at majohnson@uidaho.edu. The deadline for nominations is Friday, Jan. 29.
 

Register for a Green Dot Workshop for Faculty and Staff Feb. 16

Attend a virtual Green Dot workshop for faculty and staff 9-10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16, via Zoom. The workshop introduces the basic elements of the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program, focusing on the role university employees play in establishing and reinforcing campus culture. This training is interactive and action-oriented. Register online.
 

Learn About Conducting Research With Human Subjects, Human Biospecimens or Human Data

Are you planning to conduct research and collect data or biological samples from human subjects? Will you be using identified data or samples that someone else has collected for your research? If so, you may be required to submit your research protocol to the Institutional Review Board for approval prior to beginning work. The University of Idaho’s Institutional Review Board is responsible for verifying that appropriate human subjects’ protections are in place for research protocols. Learn more.
 

Researchers Looking for Lactating Mothers to Participate in Study

Researchers from the University of Idaho are looking for mothers to participate in a study on the optimization of methods in human milk research. Potential participants need only be healthy and lactating. Participation will require completion of basic health questionnaires and multiple milk donations. Contact goge3761@vandals.uidaho.edu, smcguire@uidaho.edu or 253-514-9218 for more information. This study has been approved by the University of Idaho Institutional Review Board.

Thank You to Lydia Stucki

Thank you to Lydia Stucki, communications and events coordinator with the Institute for Modeling Collaboration and Innovation. Lydia is an invaluable member of the team and keeps everyone moving in the right direction to achieve their goals. Lydia is always thinking outside the box to solve problems and will step in to help in any way she can. She is always welcoming and friendly no matter the situation. She is a wonderful colleague and friend.
 

Leda Kobziar Publishes on Wildland Fire Smoke

An article on wildland fire smoke research by Leda Kobziar, a University of Idaho associate professor of wildland fire science in the College of Natural Resources, was recently published in Science, a peer-reviewed publication of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. The article recommends that fire, infectious disease, epidemiology and air quality scientists should unite to determine the infectious potential of wildfire smoke. Recently, research by Kobziar and others has shown that viable bacteria and fungi are emitted into the atmosphere during wildland fires, and the microbes comprise a significant portion of smoke particulate matter. Kobziar’s work shows that trillions of microbes living on — and in — plants and soils can disperse around the planet through smoke, potentially spreading pathogens or toxins or affecting the biological functioning of the places they land.
 

Kudos to Max Stillwell

Max Stillwell has been a valuable help to the Counseling and Testing Center (CTC) team — and the entire Vandal Family. He goes above and beyond and has been instrumental in helping keep the CTC up and running. He is quick to respond to requests for help and easily navigates complex problems and issues. Max has been a hero in every sense of the word — responsive, kind, resourceful and knowledgeable. He was able to help with several departments, projects and issues that affected the center on campus and also helped employees as some of them shifted to at-home work. His quick action and response helped the center seamlessly transition to Zoom.

• Administrative Assistant, Twin Falls County Extension, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Administrative Coordinator, Twin Falls County Extension Office, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science
• Senior Prospect Research Strategist, University Advancement

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

University Events Council Meeting Is Today

A university-wide Events Council will meet from 10 a.m. to noon today, Jan. 11, via Zoom. The group is focused on serving the U of I community via sharing event resources and best practices; providing onboarding and training; matching experienced people on campus as mentors to new staff; and unifying or streamlining the events processes to collaborate effectively and efficiently. Register online. Read more.
 

Virtual Cup of Joe with Tom Mueller Is Tomorrow

Share a virtual Cup of Joe with Tom Mueller ’85 4 p.m. tomorrow, Jan. 12, via Zoom. Recently retired from SpaceX, Mueller has 30 years of propulsion development experience and is one of the world’s foremost rocket engine designers. As one of SpaceX’s founding members, he was responsible for building and managing SpaceX’s propulsion development group. Register online.
 

Vandal Health Clinic Services Return to Campus Jan. 13

Vandal Health Clinic services are available to all students, dependents, faculty and staff. Clinic operations will return to campus Wednesday, Jan. 13. The on-campus location is at the corner of Ash Street and University Avenue (use the Ash Street entrance). Call 208-885-6693 for information on accessing services.
 

Parking Permits and Enforcement Reminders for Spring 2021 Semester Start

Parking enforcement will continue to follow the academic break parking schedule until regular full academic year enforcement resumes at 2 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13. Parking permits remain available for online only purchase for the spring semester. Contact the Parking and Transportation Services team at parking@uidaho.edu or 208-885-6424 with questions.
 

Learn About Finding Funding Opportunities Jan. 13

Join the Research and Faculty Development team 12:30-1:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 13, via Zoom, for the Faculty Success Seminar Series. Learn how to use Pivot, a database of funding opportunities that identifies global funding information in all disciplines related to research programs, creative activities, collaborative activities, curriculum development, conferences, fellowships, equipment acquisition, prior awards and more. Participants will learn how to create and customize their profile, how to conduct a funding search and how to save, track and share funding opportunities. See the full Faculty Success Seminar Series schedule. All seminars are open to faculty, staff, postdocs and graduate students, and they will be recorded for future viewings.
 

Registration Is Open for Data Management Workshops

Postdocs and graduate students will host three workshops this spring for upper-level undergraduate students, new graduate students and anyone else interested in good practices in data management and analysis. These virtual workshops are offered in three-hour sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons beginning on Tuesday, Jan. 19, with “Unix, Git and Programming (R/Python) for Novices.” Registration is required and space is limited. Learn more and see the schedule.
 

Submit Your Feedback on New Policies

The Office of the Provost and Executive Vice President is seeking faculty and staff feedback on the new policies for promotion/tenure (FSH 3500) and third-year review (FSH 3510). All feedback is appreciated. Complete the survey by Wednesday, Jan. 20.
 

Register for a Green Dot Workshop for Faculty and Staff Jan. 22

Attend a virtual Green Dot safety workshop for faculty and staff from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, via Zoom. The workshop introduces the basic elements of the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program, focusing specifically on the role university employees play in establishing and reinforcing campus culture. This training is interactive and action-oriented. Register online.
 

Learn About Supporting Students in Distress Jan. 27

Join an interactive workshop on “Supporting Students in Distress” at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 27, via Zoom. Learn how to recognize when students are struggling, how to have a conversation to get them connected to help and how to create an environment that encourages success. Register online.
 

Submit Nominations for Excellence in Research and Creative Activity Award by Jan. 29

The Office of Research and Economic Development encourages faculty and staff to nominate colleagues for its annual Excellence in Research and Creative Activity Award, which recognizes one individual for excellence in scholarly research or creative activity. Learn more about nominee guidelines, then submit your nominations before Friday, Jan. 29, to vpresearch@uidaho.edu.
 

Incoming Students Must Complete Online Required Safety Programs

All incoming first-year undergraduate U of I students under the age of 24 are required to complete AlcoholEdu and Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates, two online safety courses. The courses provide knowledge and skills students need to make healthy, informed decisions. Part 1 of each of the two-part courses is due Monday, Feb. 1. Part 2 to each program will be available to students 30 days after the completion of the respective Part 1. Students who do not finish Part 1 of AlcoholEdu and Sexual Assault Prevention for Undergraduates by Feb. 1 will receive an enrollment hold on their accounts. Contact the Office of the Dean of Students at askjoe@uidaho.edu for more information.
 

Healthy Vandals Toolkit Is Available

With the start of the new year, it may be time to refresh Healthy Vandals signage and reminders in your shared spaces, buildings and communication. Social media graphics, display screens, posters, flyers and A-frames are available online. Also available online is information on how to request customized signage or large prints.
 

The Hub Returns to Sustainable Cutlery and Flatware

Vandals Dining is reintegrating the use of plates, bowls and traditional utensils at The Hub this semester. As they move away from disposable flatware and allow for dishwashing, guests of The Hub will now enter through the west side of the Wallace Residence Hall and exit toward the east wing. Contact Bryanna Muscella at bryanna.muscella@sodexo.com or 280-885-6070 with questions.
 

Campus Security Offers Free Safe Walk Services

Safe Walk is a free, year-round 24/7 service for students, faculty, staff and campus visitors offered by Campus Security. Call 208-885-7054, 208-874-7550 or email campus-security@uidaho.edu. Read more about Safe Walk on the I-Safety website.

Vandals Deliver a Life-Saving Gift

Idaho WWAMI student Meagan Boll is working with College of Engineering students to overcome a spinal cord injury and realize her goal of becoming a CPR-certified doctor. Read more.

Wildfire Smoke May Spread Infectious Disease

Scientists say that microbes and fungi can survive in large numbers in smoky plumes. The authors believe it’s likely that organisms from the soil, known to cause infection, could be transferred in this way. They argue that greater monitoring of wildfire smoke by health authorities is urgently needed. Read more.

Tracey Johnson Publishes on Brood Parasitism of Greater Sage-Grouse

A paper published by University of Idaho’s Tracey N. Johnson, director of research at the Rinker Rock Creek Ranch, describes for the first time how sage-grouse nests in southern Idaho may be parasitized by quail. Parasitism occurs when one species lays its eggs in the nest of another species with the goal of having the host rear the parasite’s chicks. The paper in Western North American Naturalist titled “Brood Parasitism of Greater Sage-Grouse by California Quail in Idaho” describes a case of brood parasitism of a greater sage-grouse nest by California quail in southwestern Idaho in 2019. This is the first case ever reported of parasitism of a sage-grouse nest by quail. Read more.
 

U of I Researchers Discuss Wolf Populations in Animal Conservation

Immigrating wolves may not always replenish wolf populations after individuals have been harvested, University of Idaho researchers and their colleagues learned in an eight-year study that included wolf groups in parts of Idaho and Canada. According to a paper published in Animal Conservation by University of Idaho’s David Ausband and Lisette Waits, density of wolves declined after harvest, and immigration into groups was low and did not compensate for harvest mortality in the groups studied by the researchers. Read more.

• Financial Technician, Accounts Receivable
• Administrative Assistant 2, General Counsel
• Technical Records Specialist 2, Accounts Receivable
• Admin Financial Specialist, Enrollment Management
• Academic Coach, Academic Support Programs
• Temporary HR Assistant, Human Resources
• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science
• Senior Prospect Research Strategist, University Advancement

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

Supervisor Resources for Managing Mandatory Furlough Are Available Online

As announced by President Scott Green on June 18, 2020, employees are required to take furlough between the start of their FY21 contract and Saturday, Jan. 23, to meet current fiscal year budget holdbacks. Each employee’s required leave has been added to their leave bank and is visible to them in VandalWeb. It is the supervisor’s responsibility to ensure their employees take assigned leave. To assist supervisors, additional resources are online. Learn how to track the remaining balance for those you supervise and find commonly requested information about calculating furlough for new employees and how to calculate prorated furlough for employees separating before Jan. 23.
 

Create a Branded U of I Signature With the Email Signature Generator

The U of I Brand Resource Center is full of tools to implement our brand, which defines who we are, who we serve and how we project the best of ourselves and our university to the world. An easy, yet impactful, place to start is with email signatures. Just fill out a form and the Email Signature Generator will create a sharp, on-brand signature for emails. Create your signature.
 

Student Recreation Center Winter Break Hours Are Announced

The Student Recreation Center will be open from noon to 3 p.m. and 4-7 p.m. Dec. 19-20, and from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3:30-6:30 p.m. Jan. 4-10, 2021. The SRC will be closed Monday, Dec. 21, through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021. Academic hours will resume on Monday, Jan. 11, 2021. Learn more about Winter Break hours.
 

Holiday Newsletter Schedule Is Announced

Due to Winter Break and holidays, there will be no Daily Register starting Monday, Dec. 21, and no This Week starting Sunday, Dec. 20. All newsletters, including My UI, will resume a regular schedule the week of Jan. 10, 2021.
 

Outdoor Rental Center Is Open

It’s not too late to rent your winter outdoor gear. The Outdoor Rental Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 21-23. Rental gear can be kept through Monday, Jan. 11, 2021. See prices and equipment.
 

Vandal Food Pantry Winter Break Hours Are Announced

The Vandal Food Pantry will have adjusted hours for Winter Break. Curbside pick-up will be available 3:30-4:30 p.m. on Tuesdays and 10-11 a.m. on Wednesdays on the west side of the Bruce M. Pitman Center at the loading dock from Tuesday, Dec. 22, to Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2021. Email volunteer@uidaho.edu if you are unable to make these times.
 

Foundation Holiday Hours Are Announced

The University of Idaho Foundation Office will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23, and Dec. 28-30 to assist with year-end gifts in support of the university. The office will be closed Dec. 24-27, Thursday, Dec. 31, and Friday, Jan. 1, 2021. Stop by the offices on the first floor of Mary Forney Hall or call 208-885-4000 with questions.
 

University Events Council Meeting Is Jan. 11

A university-wide Events Council is being created and will meet from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Jan. 11, 2021, in the Bruce M. Pitman Center International Ballroom. The group is focused on serving the U of I community via: sharing event resources and best practices; providing onboarding and training; matching experienced people on campus as mentors to new staff; and unifying or streamlining the events processes to collaborate effectively and efficiently. Register online. Read more.
 

Limited Submission Funding Opportunities Are Available

The Research and Faculty Development team in the Office of Research and Economic Development is requesting notice of intent to apply to the following new limited submissions funding opportunities with an upcoming notice of intent deadline of Monday, Jan. 18, 2021: National Science Foundation, ADVANCE- IT; National Institutes of Health, RM 1 – Clinical Trial; and Avista Energy Research Initiative. For more information and to submit a notice of intent to apply to these and other open limited submission funding opportunities, select the program from the table on the U of I InfoReady Review homepage. Contact the Research and Faculty Development Limited Submissions team at ored-rfd-limitedsub@uidaho.edu with questions.
 

Registration Is Open for Data Management Workshops

Postdocs and graduate students will host three workshops this spring for upper-level undergraduate students, new graduate students and anyone else interested in good practices in data management and analysis. These virtual workshops are offered in three-hour sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons beginning on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021, with “Unix, Git and Programming (R/Python) for Novices.” Registration is required. Space is limited. Learn more and see the schedule.
 

Register for a Green Dot Workshop for Faculty and Staff Jan. 22

Attend a virtual Green Dot safety workshop for faculty and staff from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 22, 2021, online via Zoom. The workshop introduces the basic elements of the Green Dot Bystander Intervention program, focusing specifically on the role university employees play in establishing and reinforcing campus culture. This training is interactive and action-oriented. Register online.

See Student Artwork Online

The Art and Design program presents this semester’s B.F.A. Thesis Exhibition, featuring work created by graduating Studio Art and Design majors. This online exhibition highlights works shown in the Reflections Gallery on the Moscow campus during Fall 2020. See the exhibit.

Students Take Their Science Learning Outdoors During Pandemic

In the wake of this year’s pandemic, children from one Idaho school district are getting plenty of fresh air – and teacher time. Beginning in September, 100 K-5 students from the McCall-Donnelly School District learned science at the University of Idaho McCall Outdoor Science School located less than 10 minutes across town. Read more.

Watch for the ‘Christmas Star’ Starting Next Week

Star-gazers will be able to catch a once-in-a-lifetime sight with the “Christmas star” or “Great Conjunction of 2020” as early as next Wednesday or Thursday next week with clear nights when Jupiter and Saturn appear at their closest at a tenth of a degree apart. University of Idaho Physics Professor Jason Barnes said the main event will be on Monday, Dec. 21, which also marks the Winter Solstice, bringing the shortest amount of daylight and the longest night. Read more.

Thank You for Making a Difference for Students

Thank you to the faculty and staff who use VandalStar. During these challenging times when our interactions cannot always be in person, staying connected is more important than ever. During the fall term, VandalStar connected and helped approximately 3,600 unique students during 5,800 meetings. They had a 94% student attendance rate for these meetings. Thank you for staying committed and engaged with students through VandalStar.
 

Kudos to Julia McIlroy and Team

Julia McIlroy, director of Purchasing Services, and her team, worked tirelessly last summer to provide PPE for the Moscow campus. Your efforts to keep the Vandal Family safe are appreciated.
 

Thank You to Jana Joyce

Jana Joyce, math program manager, has helped in so many ways this fiscal year. She is always willing to go the extra mile to get the job done. Her willingness to help has impacted the Moscow community as well. She has made difficult projects easier for everyone while adhering to her own daily tasks. She has an amazing heart, is a great colleague and a great friend.
 

Kudos to Mareesa Wimbish

It has been a challenging time in the Student Accounts Office and Mareesa Wimbish, technical records specialist, has helped the team in numerous ways. She has given up her lunches and stayed after work to help with any tasks needing completion. She has helped with training new hires and has been willing to take on any task that is given to her. She comes to work and gets the job done with an exceptional attitude and wonderful customer service. It is truly amazing the quality of work that she has put out with the quantity that has been placed on her.
 

Thank You to Mark Brooker and Aaron Rice

Thank you to Electricians Mark Brooker and Aaron Rice, who helped the U of I Pitkin Forest Nursery with electrical issues. The electrical work in the greenhouse and the seedling quality lab was excellent. The nursery director was pleased to have the work completed in such a timely manner.
 

Kudos to Jessica Fleener

The Student Recreation Center has been unable to purchase more OEM refill containers for their automatic sanitizer dispensers. Jessica Fleener, team cleaning lead, took it upon herself to see if it was possible to refill the empty containers with a gel sanitizer product which is readily available. It took a couple weeks and multiple tries, but she finally figured out how to dismantle the container, clean it, refill it with the new product and make it work in the auto dispensing units. Her can-do attitude and determination are a model for others to follow. Without her ingenuity, SRC patrons would need to use less-than-ideal pump bottles.

• Student Services and Stakeholder Engagement Coordinator, College of Science
• Senior Prospect Research Strategist, University Advancement
• Associate Director, Outreach, College of Business and Economics

View a complete listing of career opportunities available at the University of Idaho.

General Curriculum Report No. 303 Is Available

General Curriculum Report No. 303, dated Dec. 17, is available for viewing and printing. Items listed on this report will have the necessary faculty approvals unless a petition requesting further consideration of a specific item is signed by five faculty members and submitted to the chair of Faculty Senate by Thursday, Dec. 31.
 

Supervisor Resources for Managing Mandatory Furlough Are Available Online

As announced by President Scott Green on June 18, employees are required to take furlough between the start of their FY21 contract and Jan. 23, 2021, to meet current fiscal year budget holdbacks. Each employee’s required leave has been added to their leave bank and is visible to them in VandalWeb. It is the supervisor’s responsibility to ensure their employees take assigned leave. To assist supervisors, additional resources are online. Learn how to track the remaining balance for those you supervise and find commonly requested information about calculating furlough for new employees and how to calculate prorated furlough for employees separating before Jan. 23.