My Job
Information, services, and programs focused on your work life at Penn
Although Penn normally never stops operating, emergencies such as severe weather conditions may sometimes result in the cancellation of classes and/or the full or partial closure of certain areas of the University. Decisions affecting work schedules and class cancellation are made by the Executive Vice President in consultation with the Provost. The University will announce a closing or other modification of work schedules through the following means:
- the University's emergency information number: 215-898-6358 (215-898-MELT)
- communications from the Division of Public Safety
- KYW News Radio (1060 AM)
- the UPennAlert Emergency Notification System (for University-related incidents and crises)
The University's emergency radio identification code numbers are "102" for day classes and schools/centers and "2102" for evening classes. The message that accompanies the code number will provide the operating status of the University.
Even when Penn is officially closed due to an emergency, there are some essential services that must still be provided, such as Public Safety or Facilities. Staff members in essential positions are still required to work as normally scheduled under these circumstances. More information on suspension of normal operations is available in
Human Resources Policy 707.
Winter is fast approaching, bringing colder temperatures and the possibility of bad weather. If you have children between the ages of 12 weeks to 12 years old, consider registering for Penn's Snow Day Child Care Program.
This service provides child care whenever Philadelphia County public schools are closed due to inclement weather but Penn is open for business. Children who attend school in other districts are also welcome on days that Philadelphia public schools are closed.
Snow Day Child Care runs from November 30, 2009–April 2, 2010 and is provided by the Penn Children's Center. Children must be pre-registered in order to participate. For information on hours of operation, instructions on how to pre-register and more, visit
the Snow Day Child Care website or contact Human Resources at 215-573-2417 or .
Professional and Personal Development
Improve your skills and get ahead in your career by taking advantage of the many development opportunities provided by Human Resources! You can pre-register for programs by visiting the online course catalog or by contacting Learning and Education at 215-898-3400.
Diversity Brown Bag—Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
November 18; 12pm–1pm; free
The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) provides protection from discrimination for individuals on the basis of disability. This program will explain the ADA as it pertains to the workplace. Topics will include relevant Penn policies and procedures, the best ways to identify reasonable accommodations, how to incorporate people with disabilities into the workplace, and more. Participants will also learn about the various campus offices that can provide valuable resources for individuals with disabilities and for those who wish to support them.
Brown Bag Matinee—Four Weeks in May
November 19; 12pm–1pm; free
The Indianapolis 500 is one of the toughest competitions in the world. Four Weeks in May profiles the Rahal/Letterman Team in their attempt to win this race. Their efforts demonstrate that in order to succeed, you need to have skilled drivers, excellent equipment, a highly-coordinated team and strong leadership. This model for success can be adapted for your work environment as well. Watch this video to learn their techniques for building an award-winning team and discuss ways to adopt new practices with your colleagues in the workplace.
Unlocking the Secrets of the Penn Library
November 19; 12pm–1:30pm; free
Discover the ways the library can work for you. Learn how to access over 10,000 electronic journals and reference sources, get personalized research assistance, or simply take out the latest New York Times bestseller. This session includes a 30-minute walking tour of Van Pelt Library. Participants are welcome to attend just the informational session.
Introduction to Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
November 20; 9am–12pm; $75
Taking the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) inventory and receiving feedback will help you identify your unique gifts. The information enhances understanding of yourself, your motivations, your natural strengths, and your potential areas for growth. It will also help you appreciate people who differ from you. Understanding your MBTI type is self-affirming and encourages cooperation with others.
Penn Certificate Program in Administrative Excellence
Begins December 2; multiple dates with varying times; $100
If you're an administrative professional looking to enhance your skills, consider enrolling in the Penn Certificate Program in Administrative Excellence. Offered annually, the 2009 Penn Certificate Program in Administrative Excellence will begin in December. This multi-session, cohort-based program is targeted for frontline, support and administrative staff. Topics will include office organization, communication skills, time and stress management, and more. You'll also learn about succeeding in the decentralized Penn environment, building your network and clarifying your individual career plan.
Career Focus Brown Bag—Interviewing for Success
December 10; 12pm–1pm; free
Wondering how to set yourself apart from other job applicants? A successful interview can often be the deciding factor for many hiring managers when choosing the right candidate for a job. This workshop will teach you the elements of effective interviews and how to successfully market yourself and your skills in order to ace your next interview. You'll learn how to prepare for a variety of different interview types and the importance of non-verbal communication when interviewing.
Brown Bag Matinee—Project Management
December 16; 12pm–1pm; free
In today's fast-paced world, many people find themselves tackling more difficult and complex challenges in the workplace. For some, project management comes easily. But not everyone knows how to do it well. This video will teach you how to successfully keep projects on track regardless of their size and scope. You'll learn how to be an effective leader and project manager who knows how to organize priorities and meet objectives.
Essentials of Management
Begins January 8; multiple dates with varying times; $250
A successful manager knows how to create and maintain a positive work environment. But it often requires continuous learning and honing of skills. If you're a Penn manager, this program is for you. Learn the most effective management skills as well as the Penn policies necessary for a successful and productive workplace. You'll be part of a cohort of fellow managers who can provide invaluable peer experience and support. This program is offered over a five-month period and requires approximately 30 hours of participation. All participants have the opportunity to complete a 360-degree assessment instrument and interpret those results with an executive coach.
Brown Bag Matinee—If Looks Could Kill
January 13; 12pm–1pm; free
This video explores the ways that behavior can be a powerful tool—or a dangerous weapon. We can act for the good of everyone, or we can attack with negative behavior. Find out why an individual can be pleasant to one person, then offensive to another, simply in response to that person's behavior.
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As you start planning for the upcoming holiday season, don't forget that Penn grants faculty and staff a Special Winter Vacation between Christmas Day and New Year's Day each year. This year, the special winter vacation days will be December 28, 29, 30 and 31. In the event that an employee is needed to report to work to continue departmental operations for part or all of this period, the Special Winter Vacation may be rescheduled for another time. View the Special Winter Vacation Policy online for more information.