Attend the Fall Lunch and Learn presentation on Wednesday, Nov. 20

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

Join us on Wednesday, Nov. 20, from noon to 1:15 p.m. for our Fall Lunch and Learn: “Applications of Large Language Models (LLMs),” presented virtually by George Fox Digital Data Analytics Adjunct Faculty Dr. Ernest Bonat.

Presentation Description
This presentation delves into the transformative impact of Large Language Models (LLMs) across various industries and their diverse applications in natural language processing (NLP). Attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of how LLMs, such as GPT, BERT, and T5, are shaping the future of AI-driven solutions by automating complex tasks that involve language understanding and generation. This presentation will include real-world case studies and live demonstrations of LLM applications.

Target Audience
This presentation is ideal for professionals, researchers, and students in AI, machine learning, and data science fields, as well as industry and academia leaders seeking to explore how LLMs can transform their business and university operations.

RSVP here to receive the Zoom link. Contact Aurae Beidler at abeidler@georgefox.edu if you have questions.

Check out the Fall Faculty Lecture on Vimeo!

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

For those who missed Nathan Slegers’ faculty lecture on Tuesday, Oct. 22, here is a link to the Vimeo recording of “The Art of the Three: How Engineering and Ingenuity is Decoding the Science of Basketball Shooting.”

Nathan’s research makes the science of basketball shooting quite intriguing … check it out!

Participants needed for research study on chronic pain and heart-nervous system coherence

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

Help us understand heart coherence in people with psychological trauma by participating in this doctorate research study. As a participant, you will undergo four 15-minute sessions of heart rate variability training. Whether you currently live with chronic pains or not, you are welcome to join us!

To thank you for participating, you will receive a $5 compensation at the end of the fourth session.

To participate or obtain more information, contact Sijia Wu at 971-379-3799 or email swu22@georgefox.edu.

Bruin Bookstore hosts sale on Campus United Apparel starting tomorrow

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

All Campus United Apparel brand items will be 25% off online and in-store at the Bruin Bookstore from Nov. 7-11.

Graduating veterans: Pick up your honor cord in Stevens

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

Are you a veteran graduating this semester? We want to extend our heartfelt congratulations as you approach this major milestone! It’s an incredible achievement, and we are so proud to celebrate your success with you.

To honor your service and accomplishments, we invite you to pick up a veteran’s honor cord to wear at your graduation ceremony.

Please stop by the student accounts office on the first floor of the Stevens Center on the Newberg campus to collect your cord. We’re open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and we’d love to see you before the ceremony.

If you are a faculty or staff member who is also a veteran and haven’t received your honor cord yet, please feel free to come by and pick one up as well.

Once again, congratulations on reaching this incredible achievement! Contact veterans@georgefox.edu with any questions.

Have a mobile plan? Take this quick survey for a chance to win $50 Amazon gift card

Tuesday, November 5th, 2024

Take this eight-minute survey to win one of two $50 Amazon gift cards! We would love your thoughts on mobile carriers for our marketing research project.

Can you participate? Yes, if you:

  • Are 18-27 years old
  • Have an individual plan or a family plan
  • Use AT&T, Verizon, or T-Mobile

Your input will help us learn what’s important to young adults when choosing a mobile provider. If you have questions, email Laurel Knox at lknox23@georgefox.edu. Thanks so much for your time!

Disclaimer: These surveys are student generated and are not to be associated with any official research conducted by faculty and staff at George Fox University. Any views or opinions presented in these surveys are solely those of the students and do not represent those of George Fox University. The distribution of these surveys is a service provided to George Fox University students as they prepare their research required by the curriculum. Students are required to have department approval. Any questions about these surveys should be directed to the students associated with the survey in question.

Windows users: Security updates coming every Wednesday

Monday, November 4th, 2024

As we continue to improve digital security, all university computers must receive updates in a timely manner.

Starting Nov. 6 and every Wednesday, all university PCs will automatically check for and load Windows updates.

If the update requires the machine to restart, you will be prompted but can delay for a short time if needed. Please note that after five days of delay, a restart will happen automatically.

Sign up for an older adult physical therapy screening with the DPT program

Monday, November 4th, 2024

Join the DPT program on the morning of Friday, Nov. 15, at the George Fox Medical Sciences Building (448 Werth Blvd.) for a free blood pressure check, circulation screen, sensation check, and screening for balance, endurance, flexibility and posture. Please note, this is a wellness screening visit and not a PT evaluation.

Contact Lyndsay Stutzenberger at 503-554-2463 or lstutzenberger@georgefox.edu to make an appointment.

Come to the Health and Benefits Fair this Wednesday

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024

Join us this Wednesday, Nov. 6, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Canyon Commons to learn about your benefits, network with colleagues, and engage with a variety of vendors. We’re spotlighting preventive care to help you stay healthy and make the most of your benefits.

Here’s a Health and Benefits Fair sneak peek:

  • Providence Team on-site: Get personalized guidance from the Providence representatives and schedule your one-on-one consultation today. Drop-ins are welcome in Canyon Commons as well.
  • Giveaways and fellowship: Enjoy giveaways, refreshments and a chance to connect with colleagues.
  • Free flu and COVID shots available: Stay healthy this season with on-site flu shots. Bring your insurance card!
  • Explore health and wellness resources: Connect with many vendors to discover new ways to enhance your health and wellbeing.
  • Raffle and prizes: Enter for a chance to win exciting door prizes and check out the big, awesome prize baskets you might win if you participate in the health assessment challenge this month!

Take advantage of the benefit and wellness experts coming to campus to help you understand your options. We can’t wait to see you!

Contact Aga Kasprzyk at akasprzyk@georgefox.edu if you have questions.

November is National Diabetes Month

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024

As we observe National Diabetes Month this November, we want to remind you of the valuable diabetes resources available through your Providence Health Plan. Diabetes can be a complex condition, but it doesn’t have to dictate your life. With the right support and education, you can learn to manage your health effectively.

Empower Yourself
Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been managing diabetes for a while, arming yourself with knowledge, accessing regular health care, and staying motivated can make a significant difference. Check out the diabetes services available in your area through Providence.

Join Us for a Free Event
Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in a free virtual event hosted by the American Diabetes Association on Tuesday, Nov. 12, from 11 a.m. to noon. Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Michelle D. Stancil (MS, BSN, RN, CDCES) will provide insights into diabetes self-management and answer your questions.

Take the first step toward better management of your diabetes; click this link to learn more and register for this informative session!

Learn about equipping future church leaders at Nov. 13-15 conference

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024

The Multiplication Conference happening Nov. 13-15 presents a unique opportunity for faculty to engage with key leaders in the church-planting movement, featuring speakers that include Rick McKinley (founding pastor of Imago Dei), Dave Ferguson (Exponential), President Robin Baker, and Portland Seminary Dean Tammy Dunahoo.

Hosted at George Fox in partnership with Portland Seminary, the event will explore the role of education and spiritual formation in equipping the next generation of church leaders and planters. As faculty, you’ll gain valuable insights into how your academic influence intersects with the mission to spread the gospel through new church plants.

Join us in shaping future leaders for a movement of multiplication! Register to secure your spot here. Faculty and employees are invited to attend the conference at no cost (excluding food) by using the code “campus24.”

Get ready for Employee Family Day at Hadlock on Nov. 9

Sunday, November 3rd, 2024

Join us for Employee Family Day at the Hadlock Student Center this Saturday, Nov. 9! Get ready for some fun and excitement with your loved ones. Enjoy a variety of activities and games available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., including:

  • Bouldering at the rock climbing wall
  • Dodgeball
  • Bounce House
  • Floor hockey
  • Pickleball
  • Ping Pong
  • Top-roping at the rock climbing wall (belayers provided)
  • Basketball
  • Prizes and giveaways

Family members and kids of all ages are welcome as long as the related employee is present. Please note that waivers are required for family members, so be sure to check the age-specific guidelines. Complete a guest waiver here.

If you have any questions, email Joe Thouvenel at jthouvenel@georgefox.edu.

Please use new email for all deposit-related inquiries

Thursday, October 31st, 2024

Attention administrators: To streamline the management of deposits and improve responsiveness, please direct all deposit-related inquiries, notifications, and documentation submissions to our new centralized email, deposits@georgefox.edu.

This new email will be used in place of Heather Groenlund’s individual email for all deposit communications, allowing our team to assist you more efficiently. We kindly ask that you update your records and begin using deposits@georgefox.edu for any future deposit matters.

Thank you for helping us make this transition!

Benefits enrollment begins on Monday

Thursday, October 31st, 2024

Open enrollment begins this Monday, Nov. 4. Please take a moment to carefully review our 2025 Benefits Enrollment Guide and schedule an appointment with a benefits expert if you are seeking to make any changes to your medical or dental plan selections.

Contact Aga Kasprzyk at akasprzyk@georgefox.edu if you have any questions.

Join us for ‘Stand Tall, Don’t Fall,’ a seasonal safety initiative

Wednesday, October 30th, 2024

As daylight fades with the fall back time change, staying visible is key to staying safe while walking outside. This season, our “Stand Tall, Don’t Fall” campaign is here to support you!

Our first focus is on adjusting to shorter daylight hours and ensuring you, and your furry friends, are easily seen while walking outside. To help, the Safety Committee is offering reflective arm bands for you. These bands are designed to increase visibility in low-light conditions, giving you a safe and comfortable way to enjoy outdoor activities as evenings get darker.

You’re welcome to pick up these free reflective bands while supplies last, at the front desks of the following locations: People and Culture, Plant Services, the Medical Sciences Building, and the Portland Center.

Our goal is to provide an easy way for everyone to “Stand Tall” by staying safe and visible throughout the season. Thank you for joining us in making this fall a safer one for our community!

Reminder: Set Your Clocks Back One Hour on Nov. 3

With the switch to standard time, here are some tips to be mindful of:

  • Be Alert: It will be getting dark earlier, so wear reflective clothing if you run or walk after 5 pm.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Keep your head up and ears open.
  • Choose well-lit routes: Stick to paths, sidewalks, or trails that you are familiar with and are well-lit.
  • Watch your step: Be cautious around curbs, potholes and uneven surfaces.

Register for this week’s ‘The Voices Conference’ by Thursday

Sunday, October 27th, 2024

“The Voices Conference,” coming up this Friday and Saturday, Nov. 1-2, centers around multicultural leadership in the U.S. Workshops and main sessions will be taught by leaders of color from around the nation and the globe, with the purpose of helping students feel empowered to create change in their community and equipped to use their voice.

This year our theme is “In The Flow,” based on Acts 2:1-12. Students will receive chapel credit. Here is a sample of some of the workshops:

  • “Bringing Our Voices to the Text” by Michelle Lang-Raymond
  • “Finding Our Voices After Trauma” by Soteria Galo
  • Worship by Mike Dean and Co. and fellow George Fox students

Register here by Thursday, Oct. 31, while spots are still open. Contact Jesse Cetz at jcetz@georgefox.edu if you have questions.

Take advantage of retirement consultations tomorrow on campus

Sunday, October 27th, 2024

Take advantage of a free, personalized retirement consultation on campus tomorrow (Tuesday). Planning for retirement is one of the most important steps you can take for a secure future, and this session will provide tailored guidance to help you reach your financial goals.

Our expert advisor from Nationwide will be available to answer your questions, assess your retirement plans, and help you optimize your savings. These consultations are designed to make the path to retirement as smooth and informed as possible. Sign up today to reserve your spot and make a positive impact on your future!

Email Aga Kasprzyk at akasprzyk@georgefox.edu if you have questions.

Encourage students to use Numerade to support their learning

Sunday, October 27th, 2024

Notice students struggling as the mid-semester crunch hits? It’s that time of the semester when effective study techniques and support are crucial. If you’re teaching or supporting students in STEM courses, recommend they check out Numerade to see if it can support their learning!

Numerade offers video tutorials tailored to STEM subjects and study tools that are useful for all courses, such as Ace, the platform’s AI tutor. Ace’s popular features include step-by-step homework help, answer explanations, and developing personalized study plans based on individual syllabi or schedules.

Share these guidelines for creating AI prompts with your students. Numerade engages students with questions and prompts for individualized learning. Encourage them to use their George Fox credentials to create a Numerade account and access extra support.

Please review university policies and your course guidelines about appropriate use of AI tools with students. Review the AI for Learning page for resources on responsible AI use to support student learning.

Contact Rick Muthiah, director of Learning Support Services, with feedback or questions at rmuthiah@georgefox.edu.

Participants in Miles for Meals logged 14,739 total miles!

Thursday, October 24th, 2024

This is a special message for those who missed yesterday’s Miles for Meals challenge closing ceremony with special sound effects from our one and only Neil Cantrall.

The challenge results are incredible! We started with a goal of 5,000 miles, but thanks to all of you, we more than exceeded expectations by logging a whopping total of 14,739 miles! It’s inspiring to see everyone come together, pushing not just for miles but for a cause that matters.

We were also amazed by the teamwork demonstrated throughout this challenge and the creativity of team names. Next time we’ll have to give an award for the most creative team name; there were some real gems!

Beyond the miles, we also received generous donations of food and money, which will go a long way in supporting our community. Thank you for your kindness and generosity; it truly shows how much we can accomplish together. We estimate that the Bruin Pantry received around $1,800 and 380 pounds of food during the short three weeks of the challenge.

We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you for the generosity of the organizations that stepped up with donations: Earthworks, Miss Hannah’s Popcorn, Canopy EAP, Assured Partners and Les Schwab.

A huge shout-out to the Social Walk team for logging the most miles! Congratulations Steffanie Altenbern, Jamie Johnson, Erin Johnson, Kara Martin and Ali Toedtemeier for winning the main prize. We also want to recognize all of our weekly participation prize winners (Wayne Gardner, Saurra Heide, Katie Maupin, Victoria Payne, Kim Knoernschild and Hope Hren). You all kept the energy up week after week and made this challenge so much fun.

For those of you who won prizes, be sure to swing by the Office of People and Culture to pick up your gift cards. And remember, just because the challenge is over doesn’t mean we stop giving! Please continue to support the pantry and help keep it stocked for those in need.

We’d love to hear your thoughts on how we can make next year’s challenge even better, so we will be sending out a feedback survey soon.

Thank you for making this such an incredible success! Let’s keep the momentum going!

Diploma frames are on sale at the Bruin Bookstore next week

Thursday, October 24th, 2024

Diploma frames are 15% off at the Bruin Bookstore in-store and online from Monday, Oct. 28, through Friday, Nov. 2. This offer is valid on regular-priced diploma frame sales.

Contact Kristin McGuirck at kmcguirk@georgefox.edu if you have questions.