Nov. 7 Staff Meeting recap
Sarah Delaney Vero, general counsel and vice president for Human Resources, opened the Nov. 7 staff meeting by welcoming colleagues and previewing an agenda focused on professional development, shared governance, and how Skidmore is approaching AI to support staff.
Human Resources Update
Julie Delay, chief human resources officer, welcomed new staff members and thanked employees for their participation in October events. She also shared key insights from the Center for Leadership in Teaching and Learning (CLTL) Generative AI Usage Staff Survey, which revealed strong staff interest in exploring AI tools and expanding their knowledge in this area.
Delay highlighted upcoming events and professional development opportunities, including:
- Bridging Generational Perspectives: 9 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 12
- LinkedIn Learning Training for Supervisors: 2 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13
- Introduction to AI Workshop for Staff: 1 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19
Employees are reminded to complete Open Enrollment selections by 4 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 21. Any flexible spending account elections must be remade each year and do not carry over automatically. Additional materials and a detailed presentation outlining 2026 benefits are available on the HR website.
skidmore cares
Michelle Hubbs, associate director of civic engagement, announced the 20th anniversary of Skidmore Cares, which supports community organizations, and invited employees to particiapte in this beloved tradition. Donation drop-offs at Scribner House's carriage house will be held from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 19 and 20.
Institutional Policy and Planning Committee (IPPC)
Kerry Nelson, coordinator for institutional research and assessment, and Michelle Hubbs shared an overview of IPPC’s role as the president’s central advisory body on major College issues. Recent discussions have focused on the Strategic Action Agenda, Board updates, SGA initiatives, and the impact of AI. The Subcommittee on Responsible Citizenship continues its civic engagement work and will host speaker Meredith Broussard, author of "Artificial Unintelligence: How Computers Misunderstand the World," in January.
President’s Remarks
President Marc Conner reaffirmed Skidmore’s commitment to academic freedom and freedom of expression, referencing the landmark Sweezy v. New Hampshire (1957) case and the “four essential freedoms” of higher education. He also noted Skidmore’s signing of the American Association of Colleges and Universities' (AAC&U) and Phi Beta Kappa Society's “Higher Education’s Compact With America: Shared Principles for the Common Good," underscoring the College’s dedication to nonpartisan principles and open dialogue.
He highlighted a vibrant month of campus activity, including the Tang Teaching Museum celebrations, the Malala Yousafzai lecture, the African Heritage Association Gala, Homecoming and Family Weekend, the Project Pericles Faculty Directors Conference, and more.
He shared updates from the October Board meetings, which addressed higher education challenges, budget and enrollment planning, AI, and student life. The Board also approved this year's Strategic Action Agenda.
The president also discussed leadership transitions, including the search for a new Collyer Vice President for Advancement and an upcoming national search for a dean of the faculty and vice president for academic affairs.
He concluded with remarks on AI at Skidmore, noting ongoing dialogue and the development of baseline policies through shared governance.
The meeting ended with a Q&A.
The next staff meeting will be 1–2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. The full schedule is available online. Staff members are encouraged to offer feedback, suggest agenda items, and ask questions through the online staff input form.
