2022-23 ASR Annual Report now available

The ASR annual report covering the period of September 2022 to August 2023 is complete and available on the ASR website homepage. This document highlights key metrics and accomplishments from each unit. It may be especially useful for new staff or for those we partner with outside of ASR as it provides a comprehensive overview of all we do for the University. Feel free to share with anybody you think would be interested!

Veterans Appreciation

Please join us to celebrate Veterans Day at the 14th Annual Veterans Appreciation Event (click the link to add the event to your Google calendar)! This event is free and open to the public. We hope you will join us for pizza, entertainment, and a community partner information fair. 

Please also consider filling out a thank you note for a military-affiliated student, colleague, friend, or a loved one. These notes will be projected on a screen during the event. To honor the privacy of others, names and identifying information will be removed from submissions prior to sharing these words of gratitude at the event. Please submit your note by Friday, November 3.

14th Annual Veterans Appreciation Event
Thursday, November 9, 2023
11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
Coffman Memorial Union, Great Hall
No RSVP Required

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee

Free October opportunities you might have missed

A Dream Beyond One’s Self
October 5 - Nov 26, Coffman Memorial Union, Second Floor Gallery

For many first-generation students, attending college not only accomplishes their dream but their families' dreams as well. A Dream Beyond One's Self shows how these students are a testament of strength and perseverance, serving as role models to themselves, their families, and their communities.

Step By Step: An Intro to Stepping Workshop with Step Afrika!
October 9, 6:30 - 7:30pm, Prodeo Academy

This assembly-sized introductory workshop is 60 minutes of highly energetic, percussive unity in motion. Participants can enjoy learning step choreography and discovering how dance brings people together. The program introduces the ties between stepping, college life, and academic achievement while discovering the rhythm, physicality, and history of stepping. All are welcome! Space is limited, and registration is required.

Centering TRUTH Report Recommendations in the University’s Work
October 10, 3:00 - 4:00pm via Zoom

This year's Decolonization Roundtable discussions will focus on recommendations from the TRUTH Project (Towards Recognition and Tribal - University Healing) Report. Our first session will focus on how we can engage in the Community Input process in the search for a University president. How can we use our collective voice to help keep TRUTH recommendations central in the search process?

Additional Events

• UROC Community Day 2023
• October 10, 3:00-7:00 pm, Urban Research and Outreach-Engagement Center
• Midwest Queer & Trans Zine Fest
• October 21, 11:00-4:00 pm, Open Book Building, Minneapolis 
• Wild Girls and the Pursuit of Justice and Joy: A Lecture by Tiya Miles
• October 25, 3:00-4:00 pm, Northrop, Carlson Family Stage

Join our ASR DEI Community of Practice

Subscribe to our DEI Google Group to discuss the latest news, connect with the committee, and keep up-to-date with DEI initiatives. More resources and information about the DEI committee can be found on the ASR Intranet.

ASR at the Homecoming parade

Please join One Stop in their annual Homecoming parade tradition on Friday, September 29, at 6:30 pm. We will march in the parade, hand out candy, and showcase our pride and spirit for the University of Minnesota. Friends and family are welcome!

No R.S.V.P. necessary, but please email Richard Campo (campo035@umn.edu) to be included on group messages about the event. Full parade details are at Homecoming Parade 2023.

ASR Staff Engagement July 27 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey is summer movie themed. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most feel proficient at using Google products, including 25.8% who are expertly proficient. When asked about which Google product you feel most adept at using, 51.5% say Google Calendar followed by 36.4% who say Google Docs. Most respondents (48.5%) feel that further training and resources on Google products would have a positive impact on their daily work.

Finally, we asked about the last movie you watched in a movie theater. The most frequent responses were The Little Mermaid, Spider-Man: Across The Spider-Verse, and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

July 13, 2023 survey results

In general, on a scale from 1 (amateur) - 5 (expert), how proficient are you at using Google products (such as Google Docs, Sheets, etc.)?

• 1 (3.2%)
• 2 (3.2%)
• 3 (25.8%)
• 4 (41.9%)
• 5 (25.8%)

Which Google product do you feel most adept at using?

• Google Docs (36.4%)
• Google Sheets (9.1%)
• Google Forms (3%)
• Google Calendar (51.5%)

Do you feel that further training, resources, and/or tips on using Google Products would have a positive impact on your daily work?

• Yes (48.5%)
• No (27.3%)
• I’m not sure. (24.2%)

What's the last movie you watched in a movie theater?

• Top Gun: Maverick
• Probably one of the Avengers movies. It's been a while!
• Spiderman: Across the Spiderverse 😍😍😍
• Everything Everywhere All At Once
• The new Little Mermaid!
• No Hard Feelings
• Dungeons and Dragons: Honor Among Thieves

ASR Staff Engagement July 13 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey asks about your proficiency with Google products. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most respondents did not travel over the 4th of July (67.6%). There were mixed opinions when asked about fireworks: 29.4% love them, 32.4% like them (but only on the 4th of July), 20.6% tolerate them, and 17.6% dislike them. When asked about your preference between snakes and sparklers, sparklers were the runaway favorite (70.6%).

Finally, we asked about your favorite foods to have cooked on a grill (or outdoors). Burgers and steak were tied with the most responses, followed by corn on the cob and pineapple. Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The last survey results are available below.

June 29, 2023 survey results

Are you planning to travel anywhere over the 4th of July?

• Yes (32.4%)
• No (67.6%)

How do you feel about fireworks?

• I love them! (29.4%)
• I like them, but typically only on the 4th (32.4%)
• I tolerate them, but not a big fan (20.6%)
• I do not like fireworks (17.6%)

Which do you prefer: snakes or sparklers?

• Snakes (5.9%)
• Sparklers (70.6%)
• Neither! (11.8%)
• I don’t know what those are. (11.8%)

What is your favorite food to have cooked on a grill (or outdoors)?

• Grilled cheese on the grill aka grilled, grilled cheese
• Burgers! Or any veggies
• Corn on the cob
• The grilled Caesar salad from the pop up grilling station that used to be in front of Bruininks Hall by the bridge!
• Grilled halloumi
• Fresh pineapple

2023 Tillman Scholars

We’re proud to announce that a University of Minnesota doctoral student, Timothy Usset, has been selected as a member of the Tillman Scholar class of 2023. The Pat Tillman Foundation receives thousands of applications each year, and they select 60 military service members, veterans, and spouses globally from that pool to receive their academic scholarship. An applicant must demonstrate a passion for education, an unwavering commitment to making an impact, and dedication to service beyond self.

Timothy is currently pursuing his doctorate in Health Services Research Policy and Administration through the School of Public Health. His work focuses on the care and prevention of moral injury in service members, veterans, and healthcare workers. His selection into this network of scholars is truly impressive and well-deserved. Congratulations, Timothy!

ASR Staff Engagement June 29 Survey

Since July 4th is upon us, this week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey is Independence Day themed. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, just about half of staff are using the ‘Create Meeting Notes’ feature on Google Calendar (46.4%). For those that have not used this feature, a short tutorial video will be linked below. When asked about introducing yourself in a meeting, most prefer to stick to saying your name and your role (67.9%). Additionally, 40.7% say that they typically have an assigned notetaker in their meetings, followed by 29.6% who say either everyone pitches in on note taking or that the same 1-2 people take notes.

Finally, we asked about your favorite place to get baked goods! Many folks mentioned local bakeries such as the Black Walnut Bakery, Bogarts Donuts, and Taste of Scandinavia, as well as preferring to bake at home. Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

June 15, 2023 survey results

Have you used the "Create Meeting Notes" feature on Google Calendar for a meeting?

• Yes (46.4%)
• No (50%)
• I don’t know what that is

Check out How to create meeting notes in Google Calendar to learn how to use this Google feature.

When asked to introduce yourself in a meeting, do you prefer to...

• Say my name and my role (and leave it at that) (67.9%)
• Say my name, role, and a fun fact about yourself (3.6%)
• Say my name, role, and a little about yourself (whatever you want to share) (14.3%)
• Say my name, role, and participate in some sort of ice breaker (14.3%)

Do you typically have an assigned notetaker in your meetings?

• Yes (40.7%)
• No, everyone pitches in on notetaking (29.6%)
• No, but usually the same 1-2 people take notes (29.6%)

What is your favorite place to get baked goods (ex. bread, donuts, etc.)?

• Black Walnut Bakery in Uptown - the bear claw pastry is Amazing
• Mochi Dough or Nothing Bundt Cakes!
• The Nerdy Baker (Ryan in OSI!)
• I bake them myself (though I am a novice)
• Sift because they have gluten free products.
• Bread Art in Bayport, MN
• My own kitchen usually. But I also like Aki's BreadHaus, Sarah Jane's Bakery, and Heights Bakery

ASR Staff Engagement June 15th Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey asks about your experiences and preferences in meetings. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most respondents have worked at another Higher Ed institution before joining the University (58.3%). Additionally, 66.7% say they have changed roles since they started at the University versus 33.3% who have stayed in the same role.

When asked when you do your best work, a resounding 83.3% say they do their best work in the morning. We received a wide array of responses when asked about your first ever job. Many folks mentioned being a babysitter, nanny, dishwasher, and working in retail or sales! Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

June 1, 2023 survey results

Have you worked at any other Higher Ed institutions before joining the University of Minnesota?

• Yes (58.3%)
• No (41.7%)

Have you stayed in the same role in your entire tenure at the University so far?

• Yes, I’m in the same role I started in (33.3%)
• No, I’ve changed roles at the University since I’ve started (66.7%)

I typically do my best work…

• In the morning (83.3%)
• In the afternoon (16.7%)

What was your first ever job?

• Waitress at a local greasy spoon diner
• Volunteering at the Humane Society. First paying job was counting customers with a clicker in a B Dalton
• Besides babysitting, it was working at Field Schlick at Maplewood Mall. Field Schlick was similar to Dayton's.
• Mowing lawns on a turkey farm where I was paid $1.00/hr. (I was 12).
• Cashier at our small town drug store as a teenager - best gig ever!
• Student Worker at CSP
• A beer salesperson at the metrodome for Twins games. "Cold Beer Here!"
• Making cotton candy and running a kiddie train ride at a Fall festival at a local farm store
• Camp counselor at German language camp
• Cold calls selling carpet cleaning services

ASR Staff Engagement June 1 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey asks about our work experience and history. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences!

According to the last survey, most staff report having 25% or less of their work week consist of meetings (62.5%). When asked about whether you typically work alone or with a team in your role, half of respondents report a mix of both (50%) with approximately the other half working alone (45.8%).

When asked about the most interesting part of your job, many folks mentioned problem solving, helping students, and the amount of variety in their work. Finally, we asked what song(s) have been stuck in your head lately. A wide range of songs were mentioned, including several TV theme songs, such as the themes from Bluey and The Golden Girls. Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

May 18, 2023 survey results

What percentage of your typical work week consists of meetings?

• 25% or less (62.5%)
• About 50% (29.2%)
• 75% or more (8.3%)

In general, do you do your work alone or with a team in your role?

• Alone (45.8%)
• With a team (4.2%)
• A mix of both (50%)

What’s the most interesting part of your job?

• Solving problems
• All the math and excel spreadsheets! The students too!!
• Figuring out how to solve pain points for our users
• Helping students through their financial struggles
• The "what the heck is happening" moments that pop up almost daily
• Working with a student and being a part of their "a ha!" moment
• It is always changing.

What song(s) have been stuck in your head lately?

• The Bluey theme song LOL
• Don't Stop Me Now – Queen
• Man, I Feel Like a Woman - Shania Twain (because of a new commercial)
• The Edge of Glory - Lady Gaga
• One - U2
• River - Bishop Briggs, Fast Car - Tracy Chapman
• All Too Well (Taylor's Version, 10 minute version) - Taylor Swift

Update from Stacey

If you have been looking ahead on your calendars, you may have seen a calendar hold for an ASR event on Thursday, July 27. Like last year, we will be hosting an in-person staff assembly followed by an ASR picnic celebration. I’m looking forward to the event and hope to see you for both the assembly and the picnic. At the assembly, I will give an ASR update, and we will also discuss DEI topics. If there is something you think I should cover in my update, send me an email at tidball@umn.edu. Thanks!

Accepting gift cards

Occasionally, University employees are asked to complete surveys for a chance to win a gift card. For example, WEX, the University’s flexible spending account (FSA) partner, recently sent out an email asking employees to provide feedback on their experience with WEX, and they could then win a gift card for completing the survey.

Winning items like this would violate our conflicts of interest policy. If an employee won the gift card, they would need to return or donate it because it is a conflict of interest, or could have the appearance of being a conflict of interest. Minnesota statute also prohibits employees involved in purchasing, or who directly or indirectly influence a University purchasing decision or contract, from accepting gifts as well.

ASR Staff Engagement May 18 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey examines your role at the University. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, the vast majority of respondents are planning to do ‘spring cleaning’ this year (90.5%). When asked about your favorite signs of spring, most say blooming flowers, green grass, and budding trees (42.9%), followed by no more snow (19%) and the return of robins and other migrating birds (19%).

Based on responses, most people are looking forward to spending time on the patio, going on bike rides and getting out on the water this spring and summer. Finally, a whopping 57.1% of respondents have watched all of the Star Wars movies, followed by 14.3% who have watched 7 or more, and 1-3 Star Wars movies respectively. Thanks for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

May 4, 2023 survey results

Are you planning to do any 'spring cleaning' this year?

• Yes (90.5%)
• No (4.8%)
• Not sure (4.8%)

What is your favorite sign of spring?

• Return of Robins and other migrating birds (19%)
• Blooming flowers, green grass, and budding trees (42.9%)
• No more snow and/or melting snow (19%)
• Return of bees, frogs, and other critters (4.8%)
• Thunderstorms (4.8%)

What are you looking forward to most this spring or summer?

• Sitting outside on the patio
• Utilizing my 3 season porch and patio, bike rides, and outdoor dinner parties
• Going on bike rides
• Weekends at the cabin!
• Getting out to the parks and running
• Being outdoors and not freezing

May the fourth be with you! How many Star Wars movies have you watched?

• 0 (4.8%)
• 1-3 (14.3%)
• 3-6 (9.5%)
• 7 or more (14.3%)
• All of them (57.1%)

ASR intranet homepage redesign

The ASR Intranet is being redesigned by members of the Operations and Strategic Initiatives team. The first phase of the project is complete, which includes conducting user research and redesigning the hompage. A new homepage design has been finalized and will replace the existing homepage on Monday, May 8, before the end of the workday. All the information on the current homepage will be temporarily moved to a separate page under Employee Resources. Updates will be given as the team continues to work on this project. For a more detailed overview of the work that has been done, see the ASR Intranet homepage redesign presentation that was given at the All-Staff Assembly on Thursday, April 27.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee

Mexico's history and culture are vast, ancient, and deserving of celebration. The oldest neighbor of the United States, Mexico declared independence from Spain just 30 years after the US separated from England. But Cinco de Mayo isn't a celebration of Mexican independence. It’s a minor celebration of a Mexican victory over the French in 1862.

The holiday is widely celebrated in the United States due to a confluence of history, politics and capitalism. In 1862, when the battle occurred, many people living in Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California had been Mexican citizens just 20 years earlier before their territory was claimed by the US in the Mexican-American war. These people celebrated the defeat of the French and their descendants have continued to celebrate the holiday.

In Mexico, the holiday was popularized by Porfirio Díaz, who had fought in the battle before becoming the long-running de facto dictator of Mexico, whose reign led to the Mexican Revolution. After the revolution, Mexican citizens largely stopped celebrating the holiday while US celebrations continued.

US celebrations outside of California were mostly modest until the late 20th century when beer companies began marketing the holiday. Perhaps seeing it as an opportunity to create another St. Patrick's Day-like celebration, the marketing has largely focused on stereotypical symbols of Mexico. Marketers and beer sellers replaced shamrocks with sombreros and corned beef with tacos, and a new US party was born.

As Cinco de Mayo celebrations have grown, so too have attempts to honor the full breadth of Mexican and Indigenous culture. If you’re interested in checking out some Cinco de Mayo celebrations, here’s a few in the Twin Cities:

• St. Paul's West Side holds a massive Cinco de Mayo celebration
• Festival 5 de Mayo 2023 - Cinco de Mayo on Lake Street in Minneapolis

Check out the additional resources to learn more about Cinco de Mayo:

• The Facts and History of Cinco de Mayo
• How Cinco de Mayo Got Its Start Because of California's Mexican Americans
• What Cinco de Mayo Looked Like in Vintage Los Angeles

ASR Staff Engagement May 4 Survey

With warmer weather finally arriving, this week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey is spring themed. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most say they use 3-5 different software systems daily at work (79.3%). When asked about the use of project management software, 58.6% of respondents say they do use project management software such as Asana. Most respondents use a physical notepad or sticky note when taking their own notes or writing down reminders (31%), followed by Google Docs (27.6%), and virtual notepad or sticky note (10.3%).

Finally, Clue received the most votes for favorite board game (20.7%), followed by Scrabble (17.2%), and Trivial Pursuit (13.8%). Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. The results from the last survey are available below.

April 20, 2023 survey results

How many software systems (such as PeopleSoft) do you typically interact with on a daily basis?

• 2 or less (10.3%)
• 3-5 (79.3%)
• 6 or more (10.3%)

Do you use any project management software, such as Asana or Wrike?

• Yes (58.6%)
• No (41.4%)

What do you use to take your own notes and/or to write down reminders?

• Physical Notepad or Sticky Note (31%)
• Google Doc (27.6%)
• Virtual Notepad or Sticky Note (10.3%)
• Personal/Dry-Erase Whiteboard (6.8%)
• Word Doc (3.4%)
• Google Calendar (3.4%)

What is your favorite board game?

• Clue (20.7%)
• Scrabble (17.2%)
• Trivial Pursuit (13.8%)
• Life (10.3%)
• Monopoly (6.9%)
• Sorry! (3.4%)
• Mousetrap (3.4%)

ASR Staff Engagement April 20 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey examines the tools we use at work. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

The last survey asked your experience with and opinions on AI technology. 65.5% of respondents have not tried using ChatGPT or similar AI technology, while 31% say that they have tried it. When asked about your concern regarding advanced AI technology, most were somewhat concerned (55.2%) followed by both those who are very concerned, and with little to no concern (20.7% each). 72.4% also felt that AI technology will have a significant impact on Higher Education within the next 5 years.

Finally, we asked what game show you would choose to appear on. Jeopardy won the highest vote (27.6%) followed by Wheel of Fortune (17.2%), and Family Feud (13.8%). Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. Results from the last survey are available below.

April 6, 2023 survey results

Have you tried using ChatGPT or similar AI technology (such as DALL-E, etc.)?

• Yes (31%)
• No (65.5%)
• I don’t know what that is (3.4%)

How concerned are you about the recent rise of advanced AI technology?

• Very concerned (20.7%)
• Somewhat concerned (55.2%)
• Little to no concern (20.7%)
• I’m not sure (3.4%)

In your opinion, how much of an impact will AI technology have on Higher Education within the next 5 years? (1: little to no impact to 5: Significant impact)

• 5 (24.1%)
• 4 (48.3%)
• 3 (24.1%)
• 2 (3.4%)
• 1 (0%)

If you could appear on any game show, which one would you choose?

• Jeopardy! (27.6%)
• Wheel of Fortune (17.2%)
• Family Feud (13.8%)
• Chopped (10.3%)
• The Price is Right (10.3%)
• Pictionary (3.4%)
• $100,000 Pyramid (3.4%)
• Press Your Luck! (3.4%)

ASR Staff Engagement April 6 Survey

This week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey asks your opinion about recent developments in AI technology. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences!

According to the last survey, most say it took them around 1 year to feel competent at their job (46.9%). When asked about your favorite places to get food on or around campus, Shuang Cheng, Wally’s Falafel & Hummus, Bordertown Coffee, and Potbelly received the most mentions.

We received lots of great advice for new employees, such as walking around and getting to know campus and asking for help! If you are new to working at the University, be sure to check out all of the great suggestions below! Finally, raspberries received the most votes for favorite fruit (25%), followed by apples (15.6%), strawberries (12.5%), and mango (12.5%). Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated.

March 23, 2023 survey results

How long did it take you to feel competent at your job?

• 6 months or less (28.1%)
• Around 1 year (46.9%)
• 2 years or more (25%)

What are some of your favorite places to get food and/or drinks on or around campus?

• Wally's Fallafel, Banh Appetite
• Bordertown coffee
• I like walking around and exploring all the spaces. Coffman one day, dinkytown another. Go into buildings, too, because some of them have coffee shops tucked inside.
• Potbelly, Chipotle, and Mesa Pizza
• Bordertown is great for coffee! Pho Mai or Crisp & Green are also great.
• Bonchon, Wally's, Sally's, Bona, Stub and Herb's
• Shuang Cheng all the wayyyyyy

What general advice would you give to someone starting work at the University this year?

• Take advantage of all your benefits. We have good medical/dental insurance, so schedule those physicals and dental checkups. Contribute to one of the voluntary retirement plans in addition to your required plan, even if you can only afford a small amount.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help! Everyone in ASR is friendly and helpful and can point you in the right direction. You can 100% say you're still new even after a year in your job; there's a lot to learn!
• Get involved and don't be afraid to ask questions! Explore campus widely if you can, even if you don't have to be there very often.
• Don't be afraid to speak up if you don't understand an acronym! There are so many floating around, and they may not mean what you think they mean - especially if you don't have much context.
• Things work slow around here... if you're used to fast paced, take a breath, and go with the timeline.
• Don't hesitate to add times to people's calendars to talk! We're all very open to connecting, even in a hybrid environment. Join a few communities of practice / networking groups based on your role to make sure you have a way to connect with folks in the distributed units. Things at the U can operate more slowly than in--learn to embrace the pace, and the collaborative and distributed ways we make decisions. Also, use the Regents' Scholarship opportunity to engage with the academic culture of the University--it will give you helpful context for your work, and is a nice way to stay a lifelong learner!
• Always feel free to ask questions - really! Your colleagues are happy to answer your questions (or get you to someone who can answer it). And give yourself time. Everything takes a while (access, learning, getting the feel of the flow of work) and that is expected around here. Finally, take walks! Walk the tunnels and see what is going on in buildings, walk the grounds and watch how well they are cared for, walk and feel the energy of this place - it's pretty amazing. If you work from home - walk there, too. Taking breaks is ok.
• Try to get to know people in ASR that aren't in your unit.
• Don't let the size of the University overwhelm you
• Keep a list of all the acronyms that get thrown at you and ask people to clarify when they use ones you don't know
• When you're on campus, take some time to walk around and explore
• Take time to get to know your coworkers
• You are not expected to know everything!
• Connections are vital. If your supervisor isn't doing so already, ask them who they should get to know (within our unit/dept/ASR/across campus) and meet via email introduction or, even better, a quick Zoom hello.

What is your favorite fruit?

• Raspberries (25%)
• Apples (15.6%)
• Mango (12.5%)
• Strawberries (12.5%)
• Pineapple (9.4%)
• Kiwi (6.3%)
• Bananas (6.3%)

ASR Staff Engagement March 23 Survey

We’ve had several new folks join ASR recently! So, this week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey focuses on helpful information for new University staff. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most prefer coffee as their hot drink of choice (43.8%). This was followed by tea (28.1%) and lattes (12.5%). When asked about your favorite places to visit in Minnesota, most people mentioned Duluth, the North Shore, and several Minnesota State Parks (Itasca, Whitewater, and Tettagouche among others). When asked about where you would go if you could travel anywhere for a day, Australia, London, and Italy were the top submissions.

Finally, a whopping 90.6% of respondents think it will snow again in April in the Twin Cities area. Thanks all for your continued participation! It is very much appreciated. Results from the last survey are available on the N&N blog.

March 9, 2023 survey results

What is your preferred hot drink?

• Coffee (43.8%)
• Tea (28.1%)
• Latte (12.5%)
• Hot Chocolate (9.4%)
• Hot Apple Cider (3.1%)

What’s one of your favorite places to visit in Minnesota

• Cup and Cone!
• Lake Miltona
• My backyard garden. Away from home? Duluth
• Anywhere on the north shore
• MN State Fair
• Deer Lake, just north of Grand Rapids
• Quarry’s St. Cloud

If you could travel anywhere for a day (via teleportation), where would you go?

• Brazil, into the rainforest!
• Taj Mahal in India
• Somewhere with hot spring pools
• Italy! Specifically, Florence and/or one of the Cinque Terra towns
• Far too many to name - Start with Bergen, Norway
• London or Edinburgh, Scotland

Place your bets: within the Twin Cities metro area, will it snow again in April?

• Yes. It’s Minnesota (90.6%)
• No. Nope, not happening (9.4%)

ASR Staff Engagement March 9 Survey

In this week’s ASR Staff Engagement Survey, we think warm thoughts as spring break and more snow are upon us. Thank you for continuing to share your stories and experiences.

According to the last survey, most prefer to use chat if a colleague needed to reach them (48.6%). This was followed by email (32.4%) and Slack (10.8%). Similarly, 48.6% of respondents say they are aware of their manager’s preferred communication method. When asked about usage of Focus Time on Google Calendar, most respondents use this feature (62.2%), while 27% do not, and 10.8% aren’t sure what the feature is.

We had lots of great recommendations of movies, tv shows, games, and books that folks have enjoyed recently. Responses were varied but there were frequent mentions of below.

February 23, 2023 survey results

In general, if a colleague needed to reach you, what would be your preferred communication method?

• Chat (48.6%)
• Email (32.4%)
• Slack (10.8%)
• Help Ticket (2.7%)

Are you aware of your manager's preferred communication method?

• Yes (48.6%)
• No (13.5%)
• I think so, but I’m not 100% sure (37.8%)

Do you use the “Focus Time” feature on Google Calendar?

• Yes (62.2%)
• No (27%)
• I’m not sure what the feature is (10.8%)

What movies, tv shows, games, or books have you enjoyed recently and would recommend to others?

• I'm late to the game, but I've been reading the book The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue and have been loving it! I've also been watching The Last of Us each week on HBO.
• A recent rewatch of The Good Place
• TV- Master Chef and Master Chef Jr. Movie: Black Panther, Wakanda Forever
• Any book by William Kent Kruger (who used to work in OTR!)
• For anyone with kids 4-12 years old, the card game Sleeping Queens has been a great one for our family lately!
• I have been huge into documentaries lately. Learning and entertainment in one.
• The Last of Us! Also the 1997 Val Kilmer classic, The Saint
• Marvel Comics:The Untold Story by Sean Howe
• Inheriting the Revolution - Joyce Appleby