On April 25, the University of Oregon Eugene campus hosted approximately 100 children for UO Kids on Campus Day (formerly Take Our Children to Work Day).
Twenty-seven units and programs provided enlightening and enjoyable activities for children throughout the day, hosted by the Learning and Development team in the Office of Human Resources.
"We had a great turnout of both families and departments, and we are so grateful to everyone who gave us their time and energy,” said Tiffany Lundy, senior associate director of employee development and engagement. “Because we had so many units hosting activities, it was easy for kids to find something they wanted to do.”
In fact, there was a remarkable assortment of offerings, from shoe design and marketing at the Lundquist College of Business, to choral conducting at the School of Music and Dance, to crafting, cookie decorating, facility tours and more.
Wyatt Monroe, age 10, was especially interested in the university’s infrastructure and its creative side. “I’m excited to learn about the safety system around the UO,” he said. “And I’m also looking forward to the radio station.”
As children were exploring new skills and experiences, university partners also benefited from the cross-campus collaboration. Melaney Grenz, program coordinator for the Center on Brain Injury Research and Training, was glad to have the chance to promote helmet wearing among kids on bikes, scooters and other ride-on vehicles. “Healthy brains, healthy kids,” she said. “I love to meet with kids, to see the other departments that take the time to be here and I want people to know what CBIRT does.”
The Learning and Development team plans to continue this event every year and encourages units to consider how they might take part in the future. Employees who would like to discuss ideas for UO Kids on Campus Day or other kid-friendly activities are invited to email UOFamilies@uoregon.edu.
—By Anna Duncan, Human Resources Communications
—Top photo: Lila Grishkin practices using a fire extinguisher with help from Todd Schwartz, fire life safety professional in Environmental Health and Safety.