Wellness Wednesday: Your Benefits and Well-Being

Tuesday, October 28th, 2025

Happy Wellness Wednesday! With Open Enrollment starting next week, now is the perfect time to focus on your benefits and well-being. You don’t have to navigate your choices alone – we have plenty of resources to help you prepare and enroll with confidence:

Taking 15 minutes to review your options could save you … well, it’s not car insurance, but it will have a major positive impact on your well-being for the entire year!

Learn how to protect seniors you know from elder financial exploitation

Tuesday, October 28th, 2025

The financial exploitation of elders is a growing concern that affects millions of senior citizens each year. In an upcoming Canopy webinar, learn about common tactics used by scammers, how to recognize the signs of financial abuse, and what practical steps to take if you suspect someone you know is being exploited.

Sessions:

  • Tuesday, Nov. 4, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Thursday, Nov. 13, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Reserve a seat here.

Don’t forget to order swag before the Oct. 31 deadline

Monday, October 27th, 2025

Did you give out stickers this year? Did you wish you had George Fox swag for an event or outreach opportunity? Now’s the time to plan ahead – the 2025 Swag Bulk Order is open!

Take advantage of bulk pricing on a variety of university-branded items, including:

  • Drinkware: Glass can cup with straw, campfire coffee mug, water bottle
  • Apparel/bags: Crossbody bag, cotton tote, mini tote, trucker cap, beanie
  • Other: Journal, picnic blanket, mini sticker sheets, six individual sticker designs

Pictures of items and ordering details are available here. If your department would like to participate in the order or has any questions, please email Brandy Donavant at bdonavant@georgefox.edu.

The deadline to place your order is Friday, Oct. 31. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on swag for the year ahead!

Sign up your kids for ‘Hands-On Cooking with Vibrant Fruits and Vegetables’

Monday, October 27th, 2025

Bon Appétit invites elementary school-aged (grades K-5) children of George Fox faculty and staff to join us for a special culinary workshop with activities involving healthy eating and cooking.

During this fun and interactive program, the George Fox culinary team will demonstrate how whole fruits and vegetables can be transformed into a healthy meal. By learning about the connection between what they eat and their ability to do what they enjoy, children will go home with a newfound power to make better choices for their health.

This workshop, taking place on Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 4 to 6 p.m., is free, but space is limited. Please register here.

If you have questions about the event, contact Bon Appetit’s Healthy Kids Program coordinator Nina Abramson at nina.abramson@cafebonappetit.com.

IT update: Time for a quick restart

Sunday, October 26th, 2025

Your IT team has just sent out this month’s critical updates to your computer. To get them fully installed and working, save your work and restart your device as soon as possible.

Why restart?

  • Security: These updates patch the latest security vulnerabilities, keeping your data and our network safe.
  • Performance: Regular updates and restarts keep your computer running smoothly and prevent slowdowns.

IT pro-tip: While we send major updates the third week of the month, the best thing you can do for your computer’s health is to restart it at least once a week. A weekly reboot keeps things running fast and prevents small issues from becoming big problems. 

For optimal computer performance, don’t wait for our update push. Manually check for your own updates once a month.

Questions? Email servicedesk@georgefox.edu.

Help Marketing Research students by completing a short survey

Sunday, October 26th, 2025

Attention, parents! Students in the Marketing Research class are gathering insights about youth sports participation and football awareness, and we would love your input!

Please take eight to 10 minutes to complete our short survey. Your feedback will help us better understand how young athletes engage with the game. If you complete the survey, you will be entered in a raffle to win one of two $50 Amazon gift cards!

Thank you for your time and support!

If you have any questions, reach out to Asher Cummings at acummings23@georgefox.edu.

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.

Learn about cancer screenings and preventative care at an Oct. 28 webinar

Thursday, October 23rd, 2025

Join us for a webinar on Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 11 a.m. featuring Ruben Halperin, the medical director at Providence Health Plan. He’ll discuss cancer screenings, the pivotal role of preventive care, and the benefits of having a dedicated primary care provider to guide you through your health journey.

Register for the webinar here.

The Bruin Bookstore will be open for Family Weekend

Thursday, October 23rd, 2025

Happy Family Weekend! The Bruin Bookstore will be open today (Friday) and tomorrow (Saturday) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Swing by to check out new merchandise (like George Fox Christmas crewnecks!).

We have Bruin Family crews available in all sizes for $34. We look forward to welcoming you into the store!

Staff and faculty discounts available at the Bruin Bookstore on Oct. 29

Thursday, October 23rd, 2025

The Bruin Bookstore will be hosting a staff and faculty appreciation event for 25% off George Fox-branded drinkware and a free George Fox-branded gift with a $75-plus purchase of clothing/gifts (before the staff/faculty discount). The sale is happening this Wednesday, Oct. 29 (in-store only).

Now’s your chance to order swag at bulk prices

Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025

Did you give out stickers this year? Did you wish you had George Fox swag for an event or outreach opportunity? Now’s the time to plan ahead – the 2025 Swag Bulk Order is open!

Take advantage of bulk pricing on a variety of university-branded items, including:

  • Drinkware: Glass can cup with straw, campfire coffee mug, water bottle
  • Apparel/bags: Crossbody bag, cotton tote, mini tote, trucker cap, beanie
  • Other: Journal, picnic blanket, mini sticker sheets, six individual sticker designs

Pictures of items and ordering details are available here. If your department would like to participate in the order or has any questions, please email Brandy Donavant at bdonavant@georgefox.edu.

The deadline to place your order is Friday, Oct. 31. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on swag for the year ahead!

Matt Wilson performs with university’s Jazz Ensemble and Faculty Quintet Nov. 7

Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025

We are excited to welcome back music educator and an ambassador for jazz, Matt Wilson, for a concert at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 7, in Bauman Auditorium. This is his second visit to campus (his first was in 2014).

Wilson is a jazz drummer extraordinaire and Grammy nominee who’s been featured on the covers of Downbeat, Modern Drummer and JazzTimes magazines. He played for President Obama at the White House, and has appeared on over 250 albums, including several of his own as a leader of his Matt Wilson Quartet, Arts and Crafts, and the Christmas Tree-O.

Wilson has played with the who’s who of contemporary jazz musicians, including Joe Lovano, John Scofield, Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Baron, Ron Miles, Bill Frisell, Herbie Hancock, Dewey Redman, Pat Metheny, and Michael Brecker.

For more info about our guest artist, visit this link. You can purchase tickets from the George Fox Box Office.

Check out the Miles for Meals progress report

Wednesday, October 22nd, 2025

The individual leaderboard has been shaken up in week three of Miles for Meals!

Our top three remain a powerhouse, with Ben Wing, Mark Pothoff and David Martinez defending their positions. But the big story is Jamie Johnson, who is “too blessed to rest” and has accelerated past the competition to seize the fourth-place spot.

The race is far from over: Keep an eye on Robin Baker, who just broke into the top 10 and is holding strong at No. 7!

On the team front, the leaderboard is just as competitive, with Too Blessed to Rest, the Red Hot Chili Steppers, and Robin Shake ‘n Baker claiming the top three podium spots for now.

Let’s talk about our incredible collective progress.

  • As a group, we have logged a truly massive 9,307.5 miles! That’s a journey so long, it would land us near Kazakhstan if we headed east or west!
  • More importantly, our hard work is directly translating into support for our community. We have officially raised $1,175 for the Bruin Community Pantry as of yesterday! Thank you to everyone who has contributed and shared the fundraising link; you are making a tangible difference. Keep the fundraising going!

Finally, the moment we’ve all been waiting for: our week-three raffle prize! Congratulations goes out to Jonelle Retsema, who has won a $75 Fred Meyer gift card!

Keep moving Bruins! Questions? Contact us at bewell@georgefox.edu.

Wellness Wednesday: Cold-weather attire

Tuesday, October 21st, 2025

This Wellness Wednesday, let’s focus on embracing the chill of fall with the right attire, because as the saying goes, “There is no such thing as bad weather, only insufficient clothing.”

The key to comfort in cold, windy and wet conditions is strategic layering. Start with a base layer that wicks moisture away from your skin, such as Merino wool or synthetic materials, to keep you dry.

Next, add an insulating middle layer like fleece or a down vest for warmth. Finally, a waterproof and windproof outer shell is non-negotiable for battling rain and wind. Ensure this jacket has a functional hood. Don’t forget extremities: Warm, waterproof gloves or mittens and a hat (since you lose a lot of heat through your head) are essential.

To be truly ready for rain and wind, proactive preparation is key. Check the forecast and choose your outer layer accordingly – a lightweight, packable rain jacket is perfect for unpredictable showers. Investing in waterproof footwear with good traction will keep your feet dry and prevent slips on wet leaves or pavement.

Beyond clothing, consider having a compact, sturdy umbrella on hand, and perhaps a waterproof bag cover for backpacks or purses.

By adopting this layered approach and focusing on quality, weather-appropriate gear, you can step outside confidently, enjoy the beauty of the season, and maintain your well-being regardless of the elements.

Start preparing for Richter Scholars proposals

Monday, October 20th, 2025

Richter Scholars proposals will be due Jan. 26, 2026. The Richter Scholars program distributes funds to support student research activities that are devised, initiated and carried out by individual student researchers, with mentorship, guidance and expertise provided by a faculty mentor.

The purpose of these funds is to support educational research opportunities that encourage the practices of independent thought, leading to independent achievement and personal responsibility. For the purpose of this program, research is defined as a knowledge-generating activity that is designed to provide new information on a topic, tool or process, and that proceeds according to established and accepted research methods.

Before advising on a proposal, please read through the full proposal guidelines, eligibility requirements, and review criteria at georgefox.edu/academics/richter.

The submission deadline is Jan. 26, 2026. All applications must be submitted through our Google Form. The link to the form will be activated on the website when the spring semester begins.

For more information, contact Hannah Greene at hgreene@georgefox.edu.

The theatre department presents ‘Havurah,’ opening Thursday

Monday, October 20th, 2025

The George Fox theatre department invites you to see its fall 2025 production, Havurah, presented through the Big Bridge Theatre Consortium.

Written by Margot Connolly and directed by Ben Tissell, the play tells the story of life at Crosby College, a small liberal arts university, where two student clubs strive for connection and comfort in difficult times.

When a tragedy occurs in the local Jewish community, members of the Havurah Club are left reeling. The Christian Social Justice Club wants to help, but struggles to know how. Deeply relevant and strikingly realistic, Havurah depicts the complexities and possibilities of connecting with others in times of grief.

The show opens this Thursday, Oct. 23, and closes on Nov. 2. Evening shows start at 7:30 p.m., and weekend matinees start at 2 p.m. Employees are entitled to one complimentary ticket, and students may attend free on either Thursday. You may reserve tickets here.

Know any students interested in occupational therapy?

Monday, October 20th, 2025

If you have undergrad students exploring graduate school and careers in healthcare, consider sharing details about our upcoming OT info meeting with them.

The session will provide an overview of the Occupational Therapy Doctorate (OTD) program, including prerequisites, admissions, and what a career as an occupational therapist looks like.

The meeting is scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon this Saturday, Oct. 25, in Roberts Center’s Room 203.

Students can connect with faculty in a relaxed, conversational setting, ask questions, and get a clear sense of the OTD program, helping them explore occupational therapy and plan for graduate school.

More information and registration is available here. Questions? Contact us at ot@georgefox.edu.

Come hear Abraham Kang present the Fall Faculty Lecture tomorrow night

Sunday, October 19th, 2025

Jason Brummit and the Faculty Scholarship and Achievement Committee invite you to join them for the Fall Faculty Lecture tomorrow night (Tuesday) at 6 p.m. in Hoover 105.

Abraham Kang, PhD, associate professor of biomedical engineering, and winner of the 2024-25 Faculty Achievement Award for Undergraduate Research and Scholarship, is the featured faculty speaker.

Dr. Kang’s lecture, “Advancing Biomedical Engineering Through Student-Led Research and Innovation,” will showcase several student-led projects that span fundamental science, engineering, and medical devices.

Please join us as he illustrates how mentoring young investigators not only accelerates biomedical discovery but also prepares the next generation of engineers and scientists to solve challenges at the intersection of science, engineering, medicine, and human health.

The university and surrounding community are invited, and refreshments will be provided. We hope you are able to support Abraham by attending.

If you have questions, email Laurie Fair at lfair@georgefox.edu.

Want to order swag at bulk prices? Now’s your chance!

Sunday, October 19th, 2025

Did you give out stickers this year? Did you wish you had George Fox swag for an event or outreach opportunity? Now’s the time to plan ahead – the 2025 Swag Bulk Order is open!

Take advantage of bulk pricing on a variety of university-branded items, including:

  • Drinkware: Glass can cup with straw, campfire coffee mug, water bottle
  • Apparel/bags: Crossbody bag, cotton tote, mini tote, trucker cap, beanie
  • Other: Journal, picnic blanket, mini sticker sheets, six individual sticker designs

Pictures of items and ordering details are available here. If your department would like to participate in the order or has any questions, please email Brandy Donavant at bdonavant@georgefox.edu.

The deadline to place your order is Friday, Oct. 31. Don’t miss this opportunity to stock up on swag for the year ahead!

Get your vaccines at the on-site Health and Wellness Fair on Nov. 5

Sunday, October 19th, 2025

Ensure a healthy and safe season for yourself and your loved ones by taking advantage of the free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations offered at our upcoming Health and Wellness Fair on Wednesday, Nov. 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Canyon Commons.

This is a convenient, on-site opportunity to protect yourself and your family with minimal hassle. The flu shot is also available for children 9 years old and up, and the COVID-19 shot is available for children 12 years old and up. Both vaccines are free with eligible insurance from these companies.

We advise you to check with your insurance provider directly regarding COVID-19 coverage ahead of time. Remember to bring your insurance card. Everyone is welcome as a walk-in.

Questions? Contact Aga Kasprzyk at akasprzyk@georgefox.edu.

Our Nationwide retirement specialist returns to Newberg campus on Nov. 5

Sunday, October 19th, 2025

Free, personalized and confidential retirement consultations are available monthly on campus with our dedicated Nationwide specialist, Phillip Carbajal. He is available to provide expert advice on financial standing, savings maximization, and long-term retirement strategies.

The next session will be held on the Newberg campus on Tuesday, Nov. 5, and employees are invited to secure an appointment here.