Future of Work Task Force

The University of Michigan-Dearborn is rapidly moving towards a post-pandemic reality that is inclusive of many new modes and methods of working. Much learning and experimentation has occurred, and our campus is now at a unique moment in time to establish a new post-pandemic staffing model. As a result of the new realities and opportunities given to shape the future of work, Provost Gabriella Scarlatta in partnership with HR, the Faculty and Staff Senates is establishing a Future of Work Task Force (FoW) with the following charge:

To develop principles and recommendations that will support workplace models for employees on the Dearborn Campus. The group’s work was intended to create an institutional framework to aid colleges and units with decision-making, as well as provide tools, resources, and training to support them. In addition, the group identified key success indicators necessary, post-pandemic, to sustain workforce excellence through the balance of flexibility, accountability and inclusivity.

Timing and Deliverables:  The task force began its work in May of 2022 and has been meeting bi-weekly throughout the summer.  A September Summary Report provided the initial roadmap the task force has constructed to help guide their work.  A final report drafted in November summarizes the task force's findings and is linked below. The final report makes short, mid and long-term recommendations presented to university leadership. 

Key Issues and Topics to Consider:

• What would indicate a successful, sustainable model of work?
• Benefits and challenges in embracing workplace flexibility
• Establishes a consistent approach to flexible work 
• Positions the university for heightened competition for high quality talent 
• Promotes employee work-life balance while ensuring a student-centered service model and a thriving campus culture 
• Future of work recommendations either enhances or do not impede UM-Dearborn’s strategic priorities around Student Experience and Success; Diversity, Equity & Inclusion; Faculty and Staff Excellence; and Economic Sustainability
• Provides transparency for employees with respect to university’s framework for flexible work
• Mental/emotional health/staying connected
• Space/technology

• Co-Chairs
  • Maureen Linker (Associate Provost)
  • Rima Berry-Hung (Director, Human Resources)
• Members
  • Gabriella Scarlatta (Provost)
  • Mitch Sollenberger (Associate Provost)
  • Amy Finley (Dean of Students)
  • Carrie Shumaker (Director, Information Technology Services)
  • Claudia Lugo-Meeks (External Relations) 
  • Jean Song (Mardigian Library)
  • Eva Gogola (Staff Senate)
  • Michelle Thompson (Enrollment Management)
  • McKenna Maurino (Provost's Office Project Manager)
  • Kelsey Parker(Provost's Office Strategic Initiatives)