University Unions

Annual Report2009 - 2010

University Unions is a student-centered organization within the Division of Student Affairs at

the University of Michigan. The mission of University Unions is to enrich University life through

facilities, services and programs that support and encourage student development and student

learning, and that enhance the overall educational experience of students.

Division of Student Affairs

Director’s Letter

Building Connections Pierpont Commons Michigan League Michigan Union

Connecting to The Future Master Planning Summary

Campus Connections Arts & Programs CIC Event Services Food Services

Supporting Connections Maintenance Marketing and Graphic Design Financial

Personal Connections Student Award Winners University Unions Staff Leadership Staff

Business Connections Self-Operated Services Business Partners

Credits

Table of Contents

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Dear Friends and Colleagues:

While we live in a very complex world, isn’t it amazing to think about how connected we are with other people? The concept of Six Degrees of Separation, popularized by a theatrical play, postulates that on average two people can be connected through friends in six steps or less. Today’s on-line social network resources, such as Facebook, make it that much more clear how connected we are to our friends and the important people and happenings in their lives.

This year’s University Unions annual report is once again provided in digital form, and conveys the concept of Connecting as a theme. I am regularly reminded of the important role University Unions plays for students in connecting them to campus. Recently I received an email from an alumnus expressing how connected he felt because of his experience at the Michigan Union. “I bowled, had my hair cut, and ate both downstairs and upstairs at the Union … I also regularly swam in the finished pool… I wouldn’t write except that the convenience and uniqueness of that pool are so memorable.” Since their doors opened, the Unions have provided University of Michigan students, faculty, staff and alumni with services and conveniences to meet their daily needs, but just as important have been the shared experiences and connections that have resulted because of the Unions.

In surveys we conduct it is not surprising that the number one reason students visit the Unions is to eat at one of our restaurants. However, students also positively associate their use of the Unions with hanging out with friends, participating in activities and attending events. The Unions are both one-stop convenience centers, as well as welcoming and inclusive community centers. Students value the services and conveniences available to them, and the connections they can make with other members of the Michigan community.

One major initiative from the past year worth mentioning is the University Unions Master Plan. Consultants finalized their recommendations which describe how University Unions will connect to the future, with the Michigan Union as a Student Involvement and Community Center, the Michigan League as Gracious Hospitality, and a new Pierpont Commons as Expressive Innovation. A more detailed summary of UU Master Planning is within this annual report.

In addition to describing the many connections of University Unions, this annual report will provide an overview of changes and developments in University Unions. I hope you find it both interesting and informative. As usual, your comments and suggestions are always welcome, so do feel free to send me an electronic message to the email address below.

Sincerely,

John Taylor, Ed.D.Director of University Unionsuunions@umich.edu

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University Unions is an organization committed to serving students at the University of Michigan. From incoming freshmen to world leaders, millions have connected with the three union facilities: The Michigan League, Michigan Union and Pierpont Commons. For all, the unions strive to be comfortable places that serve daily campus needs and contribute to student development.

Working with the Division of Student Affairs Sustainability Coordinating Committee to define best practices and to continue implementation of the sustainable methods in UU offices, food service and operations areas. This is in conjunction with The Graham Institute and the Office of University Sustainability.

Partnering with Planet Blue to hold open houses in the fall at Pierpont Commons and spring in the Michigan Union. In addition, Planet Blue provided motion sensing power strips for all general fund units in Pierpont and the Union which will allow UU to lower its electrical usage.

Teaming with Information Technology to develop a process to allow guests to acquire log-in names and passwords in order to access the University’s wireless system while visiting campus for business purposes.

University Unions Campus Collaborations

All three buildings benefitted this past year from several collaborations involving other campus departments:

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Building Connections

More examples of University Unions/campus collaborations and partnerships are included throughout this report.

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Improvements for 2009-2010

A new web-based Maintenance Building Operating System Project was created by a student and implemented at Pierpont. It involves an interactive website that includes layout maps of machine rooms, calendars for scheduling work/repair, updating status, and a photo gallery of parts and equipment used in the facility. This information will benefit Maintenance Mechanics and Supervisors, Operations personnel, Mechanical Contractors, Electricians, Student Building Managers and Student Engineers.

The East Room underwent some upgrades including new drapes, wall repair and new artwork.

TPCBR

The Pierpont Commons Board of Representatives (TPCBR) had as a major goal this past year to build community on North Campus. Their annual goal setting workshop generated a lot of useful ideas that will be implemented over the next several years including increasing marketing efforts, enhancing work with student organizations and relationship building within the Board.

Pierpont Commons provides the north campus connection to student services that are nestled between inviting lounges to relax and entertain. Pierpont is home to several retail operations including UM Credit Union, ATMs, a Barnes & Noble bookstore, a computer store, a convenience store and a variety of food choices. There are many open areas for gathering or studying, and there are often career fairs and student performances in the area. Several U-M departments can also be found in Pierpont including The Office of Financial Aid, Office of the Registrar and the Department of Public Safety. University Catering also works out of the kitchen at Pierpont and runs an off-premise operation from here, as well.

Pierpont accomplished the following in the area of energy management:

Partnering with the College of Engineering and Duderstadt Center for the end-of-the-year Design Expo for Mechanical Engineering students.

Providing conference services for:- A “Night of Music” with performances by students and faculty from the School of Music, Theatre & Dance in the Piano Lounge.- Open forums for U-M Smoke Free Campus 2011.- Open sessions for U-M Plant Operations’ new North Campus Work Zone Initiative.

Loaned flags from the atrium to the Provost’s Government Relations Office for visiting campus-wide Chinese dignitaries and for the student-run African Cultural Show.

Switched 15 dimmer circuits to manual switches. These switches control about 280 incandescent lights.

Researched the air handlers and put the majority on timers.

Installed timer switches in all of the kitchen and catering walk-in coolers. They limit the light cycles to 15 minutes in these areas.

Converted the 45 watt incandescent bulbs to 13 watt CFLs which use 1/3 of the energy. Along with these energy savings, CFLs last 10 times longer than incandescent bulbs which lowers maintenance costs. CFLs also tvrun cooler, reducing cooling costs. By the end of the year 70% of the incandescent bulbs will be replaced in the building.

Installed timer switches in public areas.

As a central gathering spot for North Campus, Pierpont helped build connections with neighboring departments and organizations this past year including:

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The Michigan League, located on Central Campus, connects the campus community to elegant facilities for meetings and special events, superb catering service, diverse student programs, three eateries, a convenience store, student organization offices, an “Underground” for student performances and a computer lounge, and the Inn at the Michigan League offering comfortable and convenient accommodations for visitors to Ann Arbor.

Improvements for 2009-2010

The Eula D. Marcks Garden was renovated thanks to a gift from the Oliver Dewey Marcks Foundation. Highlights of the renovation included the construction of a ramp from Fletcher Street for barrier-free entry into the Garden, a new entry gate, total restoration of the planting beds including many new plants and shrubs, the addition of path lights and other lighting to allow for evening use, Sea Nymph fountain restoration, and the installment of a six-zone irrigation system. The Friends of the League Garden Committee worked with a variety of University departments to

execute the renovation including the University’s External Elements Committee, the University Landscape Architect, Grounds, Outdoor Lighting, Forestry, University Development and Architecture Engineering & Construction Services. These groups worked together to meet the wishes of the donor as well as to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space.

By bringing together the Michigan League Board of Governors House Committee and a local architect, plans were developed for refurbishing the Henderson Room to better serve the needs of the Michigan League and its visitors. Potential improvements include the addition of dimmable lighting that will enhance dinners, receptions and other special events, and a facelift incorporating new carpet, paint, draperies and entry doors.

As the League works to become a more sustainable facility, recycling stations were installed on all five floors and additional “green” cleaning materials have been incorporated into the custodial cleaning process.

The Inn at the Michigan League experienced a strong year with the occupancy rate reaching 68%, which is the highest since 2001.

Michigan League

The League Board of Governors’ (BOG) accomplishments for 2009-2010 included:

Completion of the renovation plans for the Henderson Room.

Creation of a vision for future Board improvements as a result of a goal setting workshop.

Awarding of two Patricia Piatt Lawson Outstanding Employee Scholarships and one Ethel A. McCormick Scholarship to Michigan League student employees.

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Michigan Union

The Michigan Union opened its doors in 1919 and has been a central connecting point on campus ever since. In the Union you will find an elegantly appointed study lounge, an art lounge, a large computing center and a billiards and games room in which you can unwind. There are many attractive meeting rooms and excellent catering services operated through University Catering from the Michigan Union kitchen. There is also a diverse sampling of eateries and a convenience store for grab and go. Other operations in the mall area include a bank, ATMs, a travel agency, a Barnes & Noble bookstore, the Michigan Union Ticket Office and U-M Computer Showcase and Repair. There are over 60 student organization offices in the Union and many Division of Student Affairs and University Unions services to support them.

Improvements for 2009-2010

The Ballroom celebrated a new name as well as a beautiful refurbishing in a dedication and naming ceremony held in November, as part of the University’s Presidential Societies Weekend events. The Union Ballroom was renamed the Rogel Ballroom to officially honor the contributions of Rich (BBA ‘70, HLLD ‘09) and Susan Rogel to the University. Major improvements included repairing and refinishing the hardwood floor, repairing the wood paneling and doors to the servery and storage rooms, restoring the limestone, fully repainting the space and construction of a new stage. In addition, a new sound system was installed. The tie to a significant place within a student union at U of M is fitting considering the Rogels’ strong advocacy of and commitment to students. With a capacity of 600 persons, the Ballroom is heavily used by students, as well as University departments and commercial businesses all year long. Close to 350 events are held in the Ballroom each year, from student organization mass meetings to formal weddings, campaign speeches to election night broadcast viewings, dance parties to department seminars, student cultural events and performances.

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The lower level mall and MUG area underwent a few changes over the last year. The Mrs. Fields/Freshens franchisee added a new operation called Auntie Anne’s pretzels to the grouping to give students another food option. In addition, STA Travel moved to the South end of the building which freed up space for an expansion of U-go’s (see page 14).

As part of the continued sustainable initiatives, the Office Space Allocation Committee (OSAC) changed over to a paperless system for student organization office lease signing. In addition, the Michigan Union connected with Planet Blue to hold an environmental education open house in the Union.

As U-M expanded its partnership with various movieproduction offices, the Michigan Union was the site for the filming of several major motion pictures. A scene using the front steps of the Union was shot for “Trust,” directed by David Schwimmer and starring Clive Owen and Catherine Keener. The lobby area of the Union served as the backdrop for scenes in the movie, “MOOZ-lum,” directed by Qasim Basir and starring Danny Glover, Evan Ross and Nia Long. The success of these shoots helped establish a relationship with University Film Office for future

A new “Founders of the Cathalopistemiad” display was added next to the “Founders of the University of Michigan” display on the first floor at the request of the University History and Traditions committee.

MUBR

The Michigan Union Board of Representatives (MUBR) was involved with the following accomplishments in 2009-2010:

Input on the placement of the 50th Anniversary of the Peace Corps commemorative marker.

Renaming the Ballroom in honor of Rich and Susan Rogel.

Conducting a survey regarding the impact of the Take Your Professor to Lunch program which indicated strong support for the program by both faculty and students.

Initial endorsement of the Talking Points program being developed to aid visually impaired students in finding specific locations.

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The Michigan Union helped facilitate several key connections over the past year:

Presenters from across the Division, including the Career Center and Student Activities and Leadership, participated in the University Unions Student Employee Orientation sessions.

Many University Unions students and staff were brought together to assist in the distribution of U-M Commencement tickets (see page 26).

filming.

Master Planning

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ProcessThorough data collection methods took place involving input from numerous stakeholders. Various usage analyses were done as well as many group meetings, interviews, team visits to other campuses, surveys, and various other quantitative and qualitative data retrieval. A major goal of the study was to assure alignment between the Division of Student Affairs’ vision, values and mission and the University Unions’ mission and facility plans. The ensuing Master Plan recommendation puts forth a road map for connecting the existing facilities to current and future needs of the entire campus community.

Connecting to the FutureProject Background

In 2008, University Unions worked with U-M’s Architecture, Engineering and Construction unit (AEC) and Integrated Design Solutions (IDS) to conduct a Facilities Conditions Analysis. The results of the analysis showed that each Union building needs considerable repair and upgrades. Thinking ahead and anticipating that funds will need to be devoted to improving the conditions of the facilities, the Unions initiated a comprehensive Master Plan Study in 2009 to take a broad and meaningful look at improvements that could be made in the area of programmatic functions as well. Workshop Architects, an architectural design firm with experience in student life buildings, was brought on board to facilitate the plan development.

Food ServiceAnalysis

InterceptInterviews

FocusGroups

DemandAnalysis

Surveys

DesignWorkshops

Small CampusGroup Meetings

Functional Area Meetings

Meeting Room Analysis

Recommendation

Repair/replace aging infrastructure

Create strong programmatic draws that encourage vitality

Contribute to North Campus Vision

Strategically zone buildings

Honor historical role as defining campus buildings

Enhance internal circulation to promote interaction

Identify additional space for emerging program

Respond to student’s desire for casual interaction space

Create flexible programming/expressive space

Update dining, retail and service offerings

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NeedsPierpont Commons - “Expressive Innovation”

Proposed Improvements

Rebuild Pierpont Commons as the center of the North Campus experience.Increase campus vitality and density in the campus core.Place student activities in the foreground as people pass through the facility encouraging them to stay.Strengthen opportunities for interaction and community building.Emphasize expressive nature of North Campus academic disciplines and high collaboration.Consolidate the International Center in a prominent North Campus location.

Emphasize U-M hospitality (e.g., conferences, meetings, catering and hotel).Internal rezoning to clarify separate hospitality and campus life functions.Relocating student-focused spaces more prominently on the main level.Enhance creation of enduring relationships with the facility.

Michigan League “Gracious Hospitality”Needs

The main kitchen will be relocated to the lower level to allow for more interactive spaces on the main level.The historic legacy of the main level will be preserved while creating more student lounges and revitalized food venues with greater transparency and interaction.Meeting space on the third floor will be updated with new finishes and technology.

Proposed Improvements

Recommendation Summary

Strengthen opportunities for interaction and community building.Restore historic role as central gathering space for entire University community.Balance visibility and interaction with confidentiality and privacy.Clarify various functional areas through zoning including: student life; student services; dining and retail; and meetings/conferences.Decompress the building and create opportunity for civic spaces by relocating some groups where possible.

Needs

Michigan Union - “Student Involvement and Community Center”

Proposed ImprovementsRetail/food operations on the lower level will be substantially renovated with an emphasis on visibility, energy and interactive gathering spaces.The historic legacy of the main level will be preserved while encouraging more student interaction through revitalization of the U-Club, a new coffee café/lounge, and a new program venue by enclosing the existing courtyard.Existing meeting spaces on the second level will be updated and a new Parliamentary Room added to serve the formal meeting needs of student organizations.The third level will be renovated to accommodate consolidation on one level of student organization offices from the fourth level.The fourth floor will be re-programmed within existing spaces to better utilize the enclosed offices for groups requiring privacy.Several Student Affairs departments will be relocated to other campus buildings to accommodate the new vision; including the International Center.

The creation of a new five-story building of approximately 235,000 square feet.The new building will be programmed to become the hub of North Campus. The new facility would offer a transportation hub, vibrant dining experiences, retail, student services, as well as additional meeting and event spaces.The physical and conceptual core of the new building will be a large multi-use community space. This “Agora” would be defined by two practice/performance spaces, a stage and adjacent stepped seating, providing dual uses: casual seating for the adjacent food/retail venues, and seating for performances.Multiple collaboration spaces would be created with technology to provide opportunities for creative interaction of various groups.A critical draw to the facility is the Great Hall. It is planned for the third level and will be a large, flexible, divisible meeting/gathering space.

The following Master Plan summary presents the vision for each facility that emerged from the engagement with the University of Michigan community. These recommendations are long range and are intended to serve as a guide for future development.

Campus Connections

2009/2010 Highlights

UUAP partnered with Alpha Delta Phi and Sigma Chi fraternities to implement an outdoor State Street Block Party before the home football game against Notre Dame. Music, food, games, inflatables and tons of Michigan spirit started on the Michigan Union lawn and continued toward Michigan Stadium on State Street.

Another collaboration involved the Center for Afro-American and African Studies (CAAS) for a campus-wide Motown Symposium Reception and a concert kicking off the CAAS 40th anniversary celebration. The concert featured Dwele, a Detroit neo-soul artist, in the Michigan League Ballroom.

The day of Finals Survival Breakfast was moved from Sunday to the Thursday after the last day of classes to accommodate student need. As a result, the April program set a record of 850 participants at this event held in the University Club.

At the 2010 ACUI Annual Conference, the UUAP Go Blue Week program received the ACUI Student-Driven Program of the Year Award. The award is given to a program that is created and implemented by students and that represents standards of excellence in campus programming. The award recognizes the impact of programming on student learning and celebrates the achievements of students

charged with programming on their campus.UUAP hosted their first Family Night at Pierpont Commons. Partnering with Northwood Community Apartments, the Work/Life Resource Center and Rackham Graduate School, Michigan students with children engaged in a free event at Pierpont Commons where they could bring their families for snacks, kid-friendly activities and crafts. 240 people attended including over 100 children.

The learning outcomes assessment process that UUAP has developed for students who serve on the Program Council was recognized by Student Voice and NASPA (Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education) as a model program for enhancing the learning of work study students through campus employment. In UUAP’s second year of implementation, online assessment tools through Student Voice were used to compile data which was more user-friendly and a “greener” approach to this process.

In January, University Unions hosted a Welcome Wednesday morning event with the University of Michigan Alumni Association. 1300 students attended the event, receiving information about UUAP and UU services and facilities. UU Food Services provided food for the event.

The University Unions Arts & Programs unit is dedicated to building community and traditions at U-M through hosting a variety of events such as concerts, educational forums and workshops, recreational activities, late night - “UMix” - programs, cultural shows, Welcome Week happenings, student performances, arts & crafts and more. Students can become involved as planners, participants or spectators in hundreds of activities. This past year, 80 student volunteers, ranging from one-time to regular participation, have been involved with UUAP programs. 230 programs were hosted in 2009/2010 with 26,000 total participants.

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Programs in which UUAP connected with campus-wide initiatives included:

Partnering with the Office of New Student Programs for Parents Weekend Dinner Theatre, Welcome to Michigan programs, Summer Orientation late night activities, Arts at Michigan for exhibits.

Volunteering at Commencement 2010.

Partnerships with SAPAC on Department of Justice campus visit – A Common Voice video showcase in Rackham Auditorium and “Revolution – Making Art for Change” exhibit in the Michigan Union Art Lounge.

Escapade – 4000 student participants.

UMix Late Night – involving partners such as 58 Greene, Amala, Amazin’ Blue, Climate Savers, ComCo, Dance 2XS, Dance Marathon, Delta Gamma, Encore, Expect Respect, FOKUS, FunKtion, Greek Life, Hindu Students’ Association, MSalsa, ONSP, Phi Mu Alpha, Pom Squad, Relay for Life, SAPAC, Sigma Pi, Students for Recovery, United Asian American Organizations, U-go’s, UM Credit Union.

Go Blue Week – the week leading up to one of college football’s greatest rivalries, the Michigan Wolverines vs. the Ohio State Buckeyes. Activities occurred in venues across campus, specifically in the three University Unions facilities. Some of the most popular programs during the week included the UUAP-sponsored Tailgate Party, the “Build

a Big House” competition and the Maize and Blue-themed Ice Skating Night. Partners included Phi Gamma Delta, Pi Kappa Alpha, Detroit Partnership, Circle K, Alpha Phi Omega, Red Cross, University Housing, Residence Hall Association and other UU departments.

World Tour – partnered with International Center and showcased a dozen international student organizations in the Michigan League Ballroom.

Stressbusters – drew 900 student attendees to Pierpont Commons.

Michigan’s Best Dance Crew – 500 student attendees.

Michigan Idol Finale – 400 student attendees.

A sampling of the many activities UUAP presented this past year intended to build community include:

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The Campus Information Center (CIC) was created in 1980 at the Michigan Union to be a centralized information center and referral service for the campus. In 1995, a second location was opened at Pierpont Commons. This past year, CIC became part of University Unions. In addition to the info desks, CIC also manages a comprehensive website full of helpful information about the University including a calendar of events, room scheduling, visiting the University and Ann Arbor, transportation, plus many links connecting a visitor to many University resources.

2009/2010 Highlights

Worked with SORC, Event Services, Marketing & Graphics, and Magic Bus to develop content for the new digital displays in each of the union facilities.

Partnered with the Office of New Student Programs to staff information tents across campus during Welcome Week.

Yearly Statistics65,462 in-person patrons at the two desks.12,989 phone calls.1846 e-mail messages.13,589 keys checked out.1250 pieces of lost & found at Michigan Union.407,893 visits to website.

CIC

Event Services

2009/2010 Highlights

UUES partnered with U-M Marketing and Conference Services to offer facilities and staff for the very large NJATC Summer NTI Conference held in August. The unions provided meeting and eating space, lunch service, receptions and dinners for over 2000 participants in the apprenticeship and training program for the electrical industry.

UUES hosted a variety of other corporate clients including Automotive Transportation Institute, Great Lakes Mercury Workshop, University Innovation Forum with the Dept. of Commerce, Big 10 Development Conference and Michigan Historic Preservation Network.

University Unions Event Services (UUES) provides event management guidance for individuals and groups that further enhances the University’s community involvement, educational opportunities and student development mission. The dedicated full-time and student staff strive to deliver outstanding customer service acting as the liaison for student organizations, U-M departments, alumni and all other visitors, with the Michigan League, Michigan Union and Pierpont Commons. This past year, UUES saw a downturn in sales as a result of the struggling economy, but continued efforts to enhance staff service and improve facilities and services.

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Model United National conference - 200+ attendees.MStars Make a Wish Ball, silent auction and performers - 300+ attendees.Bronze Elegance Fashion Show with proceeds going to inner city charities - 400+ attendees.Noir Fashion Show with proceeds going to charity - 400+ attendees.African Student Association Culture Show - 400+ attendees.Element 1 Hip Hop Dance Event - 600 attendees.Alpha Phi Alpha Red Dress Gala - 250+ sorority and family.PERMIAS Indonesian Student Assn Graduation Gala - 200+ attendees.Students for Social Equality Conference 200-300 attendees for weekend long panel discussions.Women in Leadership Conference for Ross Business School Students. One day conference with local female business leaders - 300 attendees.ROTC Tri Military Service Ball - 400 ROTC members and alumnae.

A wide range of large student events took place in the Unions as well, including:

Weddings

UUES and University Catering presented the annual wedding tasting event in February in the Michigan Union. This year’s tasting was attended by 129 guests representing 43 special events booked for the upcoming year. Entrée selections from UU’s special wedding packages were featured, as well as linens and flowers. Another current trend, a photo booth, was represented as well.

The League was selected as a “Best of Weddings 2010” winner for a reception site by “The Knot”

Staff Development

In January, UU staff were invited to participate in an “Event Design on a Dime” competition. The winning concept, presented by the University Catering Manager, was featured at the University Event Planners (UEP) vendor show in February.

During the winter semester, UUES piloted the use of student AV techs, cross-trained for assisting events at the Michigan Union and Michigan League. The pilot program proved successful and UUES will continue to use students to enhance AV support.

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magazine -- a very popular guide for planning weddings. Both the Michigan League and Michigan Union are favorite venue choices for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners and bridal showers.

Food Services

Improvements 2009/2010

One of the biggest achievements of the past year for UUFS was the renovation and expansion of U-go’s convenience store in the Michigan Union. At over double its original size, the new U-go’s features a much larger selection of convenience items with a special focus on locally made, healthy and natural/organic snack items. The University Unions Student Food Advisory Committee was brought in during the planning phase to help decide what types of food were important to students. Through the committee’s field research, it was determined that there was a strong interest in having foods available that were locally produced, made from organic or natural ingredients and met nutritional guidelines, including MHealthy Good Choice standards. In addition, a large selection of grab ‘n go items freshly prepared by University Unions’ Chefs has been added.

Whether it is catering events across campus, serving students from the food venues within each of the union buildings, or working collaboratively with UU departments on University initiatives, University Unions Food Services’ (UUFS) daily operations are centered on connecting to the U-M community. Assisting with the Planet Blue Open

Houses that took place at Pierpont and the Union.

Providing “Sustainability at the Office” tips for an edition of the UU staff newsletter.

Working with an ENV 391 student team to create a comprehensive sustainability education program for UU staff, to include comprehensive audits of the three UU buildings, benchmarking of successful efforts and programs at other universities that could be implemented here and creating an education program on sustainability for staff over the next year.

Developing a Sustainable Catering on Campus committee.

Joining with a sustainability task force to develop a Farmer’s Market for campus.

SustainabilityIn addition to the sustainable efforts undertaken by the Food Advisory Committee, UUFS was involved with:

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UUFS was selected to manage the Commencement breakfast which took place outside near Michigan Stadium and served 7,500 graduating seniors. Assistance from many volunteers within UU helped make this a successful event.

A tea training session was held to educate UUFS café staff about the “art of tea” to better serve the campus. Tea experts were brought in to facilitate the training. In addition, University Unions hosted a Coffee Skill Building Workshop put on by The Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA) at Pierpont Commons in May. Approximately sixty local and regional coffee café personnel attended the event, including ten UUFS staff. The training session allowed them to learn new skills and gather and exchange ideas from other regional coffee cafés.

Advising Engineering 100 class on projects involving food planning.

Working with the Office of Campus Sustainability, the Michigan sustainable initiatives group, the Food advisory Committee and the Environmental 391 class on increasing sustainable efforts and education in the Unions.

Teaching business etiquette classes for UUAP, Athletics and campus sororities.

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A new monthly e-newsletter, called Small Bites, was introduced to allow a forum for quick announcements from University Catering to go out to customers and prospects. University Catering also began developing seasonal menus to help guide guests to the freshest available offerings.

UUFS collaborated with U-M Residential Dining Services to celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day by holding a sustainable dining day. All of UU’s cash operations emphasized locally produced items on their menus.

The Student Food Advisory Committee helped design the Sustainable Dining Day meals, a Town Hall meeting on sustainability, a departmental viewing of the film, “Food, Inc.”, a competitive coffee pricing analysis, an assessment of water refill stations and secret shopper visits.

Additional campus connections that Food Services participated in included:

Planet Blue Topics Included:

MaintenanceSupporting Connections

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How the Building Works - energy utilization, heating & cooling systems.

Energy conservation measures.

Just turn it off - lighting display.

Climate savers - efficient computing tips.

As part of University Unions’ focus on environmental sustainability, the Maintenance staff constantly looks for opportunities to improve the buildings from an energy savings standpoint. This past year, University Unions teamed up with U-M’s Planet Blue unit to host open houses at Pierpont Commons and the Michigan Union. The events provided opportunities for UU personnel and building staff to learn about energy conservation, recycling and other green initiatives taking place in the buildings.

Building automated systems - temperature control system.

Recycling, OSEH, Green Purchasing.

Parking & Transportation.

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Improvements 2009-2010

Phase one of a lighting upgrade was completed in the MUG at the Michigan Union. New energy efficient lighting fixtures were installed along with a new ceiling system which resulted in a significant increase in the desktop light levels. After many years and many footsteps, the southwest entrance to the Michigan Union was replaced. During the demolition of the entrance it was discovered that the years of salt from foot traffic had taken a toll on the concrete. As a result, when the old door assembly was removed, the contractors found themselves looking into the computing site restroom below.Coincidentally, this restroom was slated for a remodel so that project just got moved up on the schedule.

Working in conjunction with the University’s AEC department, a new roofing system was designed and installed over Cambridge House. The roof had reached the end of its normal life span and leaks were starting to appear. Since the replacement, the 4th floor of Cambridge House has not had a water leak.

Pierpont Commons had been targeted for UU’s first major complete building energy retrofit. A major part of this project involves the installation of new lighting controls in all of the public areas. The new controls have been installed which sync the building’s lights to the hours of operation. They will even automatically adjust for daylight savings time. The payback timetable for these devices is approximately 1.5 years.

Marketing and Graphic Design

University Unions helps students connect with food, conveniences, friends, organizations, the web, study spaces and services.

The three buildings and their locations across campus help connect students to the whole campus.

The three buildings are connected through the University Unions organization.

Student programs and organizations help students build people connections.

Providing key University Unions communications in Spanish to U-M’s Portal en Espanol and to the Admissions Office through the translation work of a bilingual graphic design student.

Producing a Braille menu for the University Club.

Co-sponsoring a “Welcome Wednesday” event with the Alumni Association.

Supporting the promotion of the campus dining plan called “Blue Bucks”.

Working with DSA’s Tech Services department and the University’s Information Technology Services (ITS) unit to add UU eatery menus to U-M’s new i-phone application.

Promoting the Sustainable Dining Day partnership with Residential Dining Services to the entire campus.

Collaborating with MHealthy to publish a guide to healthy eating at campus eateries and promoting healthy choices at all the UU restaurants and cafés.

Connecting to Campus

Several successful ways that Marketing and Graphics connected to the rest of campus included:

The Connections theme of this Annual Report is a direct offshoot of the “Connecting You” image campaign introduced by UU Marketing this past year. The Marketing Student Advisory Committee recommended this theme because:

The students also suggested that it be tech/computer related since UU was launching a new web site, social networking web sites are a strong part of students’ lives, and students are always “connected” through their electronics. Student graphic designers took these concepts and created the flow chart look to show, in a graphical way, true connections between the Unions and what students need. A theme line, “Connecting You” was created to strengthen the message.

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Connecting you.

www.uunions.umich.eduDivision of Student Affairs

What isUNIVERSITYUNIONS?

3 Buildings(and so much more!)

The Michigan Union

The Michigan League

Pierpont Commons

Check outuunions.umich.edufor more info!

In addition to the use of traditional campus promotional methods such as posters, newspaper advertising, table tents, bus signs, diag boards, etc. “Connecting You” messages were created for the new digital signage across campus and giveaways included a jump drive pre-loaded with a fun flash presentation that is linked to the UU web site and also a “green” staple-less stapler for students to connect papers without the use of metal staples. Also, a UU Games and Puzzle book was handed out to all incoming freshmen and transfer students at summer orientation as a fun way to present what the Unions offer. Puzzles were developed that involved Union services and operations as the answers. Students could enjoy doing the puzzles while learning about the Unions at the same time.

Another significant project undertaken this year included new complete wayfinding signage for all three buildings. By using the in-house student designers the department saved over $11,000. The Graphics Design Office was able to achieve additional cost savings over the past year by:

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Developing new printing formats that lowered printing costs and/or extended the length of the usefulness or visibility of the printed pieces. Examples include: Development poster/newsletter mailings, Student Catering Menu with an event planning calendar, compilation of several units within one booklet to present the UU/MHealthy Good Choice options.

Advanced planning tools provided for clients which led to lower printing and manufacturing costs because bulk contracts could be established. Marketing and Graphics also worked on introducing new social media methods as well as designing ads and icons for these environments.

Financial Overview

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University Unions operates as an auxiliary unit within the Division of Student Affairs. As an auxiliary unit, University Unions must continually look for ways to increase revenue while providing services to the students and the campus community.

In FY10, University Unions continued the life cycle renewal program and through it accomplished several projects. Additional replacement banquet chairs were purchased for the Michigan Union and the Michigan League, carpet and drapes were replaced in a number of meeting rooms, televisions were upgraded in the hotel, and additional china was purchased for University Catering.

Vendor and service agreements were reviewed and purchasing practices were analyzed which resulted in significant savings to the UU organization.

The Student Organization Account Services office (SOAS) conducted a student survey and held a student focus group in order to hear directly from the student organizations how the office can continue to provide the services necessary for them to be successful and how SOAS can improve the processes that are in place. Additional on-line resources were developed in an effort to continue to provide the best possible services for student organizations.

SOASStudent Organization Accounts Services

Talk to Us About:Setting Up An AccountMoney Sorting/CountingChecking your Balance OnlineFree Classrooms for Meeting UseExchange Coins for Cash (without hidden charges)Transportation Need/Charting UM Buses

Let us help your organization get the most for their money!

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Lease

Food

Rental

University Support Other

Hotel

Salaries & Benefits

General Expenses

Utilities

Contribution to Reserves

Other

University Charges1.5%

Fiscal Year 201040

.2%

31.5%

8.4%

4.5%3.6%11.8%

Other Revenue Includes:Investment Income, Graphics, Billiards, SORC, Miscellaneous Admin/Custodial Revenue

Other Expenses Include:Telephones, Publicity/Promo, Small Equipment, Programming, Insurance, Service of Others

Revenue Expenses

10.7

%

57.1%

9.6%

8.8%

12.3%

Personal Connections Student Award Winners

University Unions provides employment opportunities for over 500 students a year.

Job experiences in the Unions allow students to gain skills in customer service, communication, teamwork, management, leadership, and other areas that enable them to be successful and help them connect to life after college.

University Unions provides a comprehensive orientation session to all student employees twice a year and celebrates their hard work and accomplishments at an end of the year awards banquet. Five students were specially recognized for their contributions.

Got It AwardCustomer ServiceElise Randall, Bert’s Café

Elise always had fresh ideas to improve customer service. She effectively created a friendly environment where regular customers returned and often asked for her by name. One particular customer always ordered a drink that is not on the menu – but Elise customized the drink to his specifications and always had it ready each time he visited, creating a WOW experience. Other regular customers looked forward to their chats with Elise. She even led a customer service focus group to encourage dialogue on improving service and creating new systems for all employees. Because of her work ethic, strong customer service focus, and leadership skills, Elise was promoted to student manager where she trained other students on how to create ‘Wow’ experiences for customers.

True Blue AwardOutstanding Student Employee of the YearKatie Fromm, SORC

Calm under pressure, patient with customers, amazing work ethic, servant leader, and detail oriented are just a few of the characteristics used to describe Katie Fromm. When it came to problem solving, not only did Katie make suggestions for ways to improve procedures, she took the initiative to implement them. The recipient worked in every position within the department providing invaluable knowledge that lent itself to building a strong team dynamic with other student employees. Her peers respected and appreciated her passion for the work and commitment to their success, as well as that of the department. With her experience, she had the foresight to anticipate problems before they arose. As an elementary education major, she used her natural teaching abilities to effectively challenge and support other student team members to never stop learning and to meet the high expectations they have set for each other. Customer service was a priority as she did role playing scenarios with fellow student employees even when not on the clock.

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Michigan Difference AwardInitiativeEd Wagner, Pierpont Commons

Ed’s work changed the way information is shared so that multiple people now have access to important information instead of just a few. In project development, Ed realized that to be most useful, this information needed to be in a web based format – but he didn’t know how to design websites. He took the initiative to learn the software required to develop a website, and ultimately created an interactive site that includes photographs, text, calendars, mechanical room layouts, equipment specifications, as well as links to appropriate vendors for ordering parts. To ensure the project was going to be of optimum assistance, Ed also took the initiative to study machine rooms, air handlers, electrical and plumbing systems so that he understood the information he was placing on the website instead of just inputting data. By having this knowledge, the website is much more intuitive and user-friendly. With Ed’s initiative, a project that started in a static three-ring binder format, is ultimately transforming how maintenance mechanics and facilities staff maintain one of the UU facilities.

Maize Cranium AwardProblem SolvingRitika Singh, SOAS

In Ritika’s department, they recently transitioned a procedure previously handled by fax to email. While this transition reduced the paperwork, it created new communication challenges, most notably that some reservation forms were getting lost in the shuffle. Rikita recognized the issue and proposed a different way of handling these reservations by accessing them via a shared virtual workspace with the other department. Not only did this eliminate all communication issues, it offered a convenient and easy way to organize old reservation forms. Most importantly, through this improved process, the partnership between the two departments has grown.

New Wolverine AwardOutstanding New EmployeeSusan Carl, Bert’s Cafe

Described as a team player, a joy to work with, energetic, respectful to all customers, and tactful, Susan Carl quickly became an integral part of the team. In only her first year on the job, her contributions included a new sandwich wrapping method that resulted in increased shelf life, improved production and reduced waste. Her work ethic was admirable and when peers asked questions, she was always willing to help or find the answer if she didn’t know it. Tasks, such as reconciling invoices, were a scavenger hunt for Susan as she continually created value for herself in what she was assigned. She appreciated the complexity of business management and the skills it provided in her own life. In addition, Susan’s commitment to customer service was evident in her attention to the needs of customers with allergens.

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University Unions Staff

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Administration

University UnionsKay BallNancianna GirbachPat MurrayJohn TaylorMichigan LeagueBob YeckePierpont CommonsAngela HammondMichael SwaniganMichigan UnionSusan PilePalmer CommonsDavid Disney

Business Office

Colleen BeyerCarol EarlJudi FordLaurie MooneyGrace Tison

CIC

Jennifer McGowanAmy Watson

Custodial

Monte AshbrookArnetha BeardEddie Boles IIIJohn ChambersContrell CooperPeter CoppYolanda DouglasAJ GayJeff HawkesFrank HunterSamuel JohnsonJeffrey LockettAmy MatthewsJeffrey SpencerDavid SteinerAaron TaratsasAnthony WalkerTanya WalkerTinker Zabawka

Event Services

Nick CapulKathi ComptonJessica EashEmille HallNancy HarperKen KnellLynne MydlowskiBarb NiemiJeff RoweLindsay SorgenfreiMary StewartKathy TaylorAnnie Whalen

Food Services

Hotel

Daisy BlantonDenise Frazier - DanielLeslie HerterRussell LynchLisa Searcy

Maintenance

Don BrushDave KautzNeil PakledinazRon PierceMatt TicknerKen UlrichFred Wicker Jr.Mark Young

Marketing and Graphic DesignLisa Bartlett Laura Seagram

MUTO

Heather KleberCorrie Thomason

Operations

Donna MaplesMerry MeyerKevin O’DonohueMelanie PizzuloVictor Wong

Procurement

Todd CoonArts & Programs

Daniella BorumChristina CookAngela EsquivelMark HavilandEric HeilmeierJulie MorganNicole PiorkowskiKarla RobinsonNicholas Smith

SOAS

Karen AlversonPatrick McCollumEmory MulhollandPatty SleetDebra WetherbeeGreg Young

SORC

Betsy Sundholm

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Taju AliGriffin BastianSamuel BerishO’Dell BlackmonChrista BrockieAaron BruckMichael BushMichael ButlerChris CarrJulie ClaflinSheryl DanciPaul DanielsMichelle DedoBill DiamondLindsay DickieErika EarpAudrey FergusonBernadette FoersterDon GarrettRobert GrobLaura HanselmanDavid HeavenSteve HolzhauerAllen HorningDavid JorgensonAlka JoshLaura KokkalesThomas KulczynskiJohn LayherRonda MackinderDarren MeyerKelly O’MaraEdith Oumba

SAL

Jimmy BrownManual Herrera

UAC

Mary Kisor

Sander PerezTammy RichterKim RoarkJessica RobertsPatrick SchmidDebra ScobelKeith SosterRob SutchChrissa SwansonChristopher ThomasKelly TidwellSherry ToneyJessica ToporPeter VeachRon WilliamsDavid Young

Leadership Staff

Back Row: John Taylor, Director University Unions; Keith Soster, Food Service Director; Susan Pile, Michigan Union Director and Arts & Programs Director; Bob Yecke, Assistant Director; David Disney, Palmer Commons General Manager; Kay Ball, Associate Director

Front Row: Michael Swanigan, Pierpont Commons Director; Jen McGowan, Campus Information Centers Director; Barbara Niemi, Event Services Director

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Self Operated ServicesBusiness Connections

Within all three union buildings, as well as the Duderstadt Center and Shapiro Undergraduate Library, University Unions manages a variety of operations designed to further supplement the services provided by the other retail and food business partners in the buildings. These include six eateries, three convenience stores, a ticket office and a billiards and games room. A connecting goal for all the operations is to make sure that student needs are met through diverse product offerings, excellent customer service, and providing student employment opportunities.

A highlight of this past year was the opportunity for the Michigan Union Ticket Office to handle ticket distribution for U-M’s Spring Commencement which featured President Barack Obama as the guest speaker. Over 10,000 tickets were smoothly distributed to UM students, faculty and staff in just 6 hours -- over 1,666 tickets per hour! Various UU departments joined MUTO staff to facilitate the operation including UUAP staff, Campus Information Center staff, Event Services, Custodial staff, and Business Office, SOAS/Cash Office staff.

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Business Partners

University Unions is grateful to several corporations whose contributions this past year helped in the development of student and staff knowledge and experience:

University Unions is proud to work with business partners committed to providing high quality products and services to students, as well as the entire campus community. A diverse group of eateries, financial institutions/ATM’s, bookstores, a travel agency and a computer repair and showcase are on hand to make sure student needs are met. This past year several changes occurred with the operations including:

The addition of Auntie Anne’s pretzels to the Mrs. Fields/Freshens franchise.

Amer’s added a self-serve yogurt bar, called Yogurt Rush which features a large variety of toppings.

UM Computer Showcase added a repair service to their location in the Michigan Union.

In addition to monitoring sales activity, consulting on business plans and assisting with marketing efforts, University Unions stays connected to these operations by conducting customer satisfaction surveys and reviewing results with every operation.

An ongoing sponsorship from Apple Inc. allows the UU Graphics office to be supplied with up to date hardware and software, plus additional tech support. In exchange, the student graphic designers prepare Apple’s higher education ad campaigns for the Michigan campus.

Several relationships that UU Food Services has established with SYSCO and SAS have resulted in ongoing staff education about food and equipment trends. In addition, Coffee Express assisted with the sponsorship of a regional Coffee Workshop held in May which provided the opportunity for many UU staff to learn more coffee preparation skills.

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Partnerships

Sponsorships

by

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Credits Nondiscrimination Policy The Regents of the University of Michigan

Project DirectorLaura Seagram

Graphic Design / Art DirectionErica Mouns, BFA 2011

EditingKay Ball, Laura Seagram, John Taylor

WritingKay Ball, Lisa Bartlett, Dave Kautz, Barb Niemi, Susan Pile, Laura Seagram, Nick Smith, Keith Soster, Michael Swanigan, John Taylor, Annie Whalen, Bob Yecke

PhotographyLaura Seagram, Kristine Colosimo, Caitlin Hohn, Clair Lloyd, U-M Photo Services, University Unions Staff

The University of Michigan, as an equal

opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies

with all applicable federal and state laws regarding

nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The

University of Michigan is committed to a policy

of equal opportunity for all persons and does not

discriminate on the basis of race, color, national

origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation,

gender identity, gender expression, disability,

religion, height, weight, or veteran status in

employment, educational programs and activities,

and admissions. Inquiries or complaints may be

addressed to the Senior Director for Institutional

Equity, and Title IX/Section 504/ADA Coordinator,

Office of Institutional Equity, 2072 Administrative

Services Building, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-

1432, 734-763-0235, TTY 734-647-1388. For other

University of Michigan information call 734-764-1817.

Julia Donovan Darlow, Ann Arbor

Laurence B. Deitch, Bingham Farms

Denise Ilitch, Bingham Farms

Olivia P. Maynard, Goodrich

Andrea Fischer Newman, Ann Arbor

Andrew C. Richner, Grosse Pointe Park

S. Martin Taylor, Grosse Pointe Farms

Katherine E. White, Ann Arbor

Mary Sue Coleman, ex officio

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University Unions

Administrative Offices3405 Michigan Union

530 South State StreetAnn Arbor, MI 48109-1308

(734) 936-0869(734) 647-1483 faxuunions.umich.edu