Month: February 2026

Greenhouse First Friday – February 6

submitted by vaneck@augsburg.edu

The Augsburg Biology Department’s rooftop greenhouse grows an appreciation for and deeper understanding of the plants of our planet. The greenhouse is open to the Augsburg campus community on the first Friday of every month this semester, from noon to 3pm. The Augsburg community is invited to come see what we’ve got growing on, enjoy the tropical atmosphere and marvel at hundreds of plant species from all over the world.

First Friday kick off for 2026 this week, February 6, 12pm—3pm. The greenhouse is located on the 4th floor of the Hagfors Center.

tay updated on greenhouse activities by following us on Instagram!

Free Trip to Washington D.C. – U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum – Apply Soon

submitted by devries@augsburg.edu

Eligibility: Sophomores and above with at least a 3.0 GPA

When: Tuesday, April 28, 2026

Application due: February 22, 2026 at 9 pm

What: MINNE means memory in Norwegian. MINNE also stands for Minnesota Norway Education Israel & Holocaust Fellowship. MINNE fellowships support college students beyond the Jewish faith as they gain in-depth knowledge of the Holocaust. Fellowship recipients travel to the Holocaust Museum in Washington, D.C. with the Jewish Community Relations Council of Minnesota and the Dakotas (JCRC) and then have the opportunity to travel to Israel.

For more information and to apply: https://jewishminneapolis.org/minnesota-norway-education-minne-israel-holocaust-fellowships/

Important Dates:
• Deadline for application submissions is February 22, 2026 at 9 pm.
• Selected students will be notified of award by March 2, 2026.

Save the Date: Interfaith Symposium

submitted by truesmit@augsburg.edu

We are excited to welcome Rev. Jen Bailey as the keynote speaker for the 2026 interfaith symposium. Jen is an interfaith leader working at the intersection of investing in the leadership of young people and the vitality of the natural environment. Jen will speak on the theme Healing the Earth, Healing Ourselves.

Date: Wednesday, March 25
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm keynote
1:00 – 2:00 pm lunch
Location: Sateren Auditorium (keynote), Hoversten Chapel (lunch)

All Augsburg community members are welcome to attend (at no cost). Registration to attend in-person is now open. Please register to help us plan for the event.

The event will also be livestreamed – stay tuned for a registration link for the virtual option.

Register

Due February 6: URGO Summer Research Phase 1 Application

submitted by philldal@augsburg.edu

Phase 1 applications are due Friday, February 6 at 11:59 PM. Now is the time to connect with faculty members to explore the research and creative projects happening in your department.

The URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Program is an 11-week, on-campus experience (May 18–July 31) that supports students conducting research or creative work alongside a faculty mentor. Full-time participants (400 hours) receive a $6,000 stipend plus a housing discount, while half-time participants (200 hours) receive a $3,000 stipend and a housing discount.

URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Assistantships
URGO also offers assistantships for students interested in working as research assistants on ongoing faculty projects. This option involves a 100-hour summer commitment and includes a $1,500 stipend. Assistantships are a great way to explore research for the first time or to contribute to a focused component of a larger project.

The Summer Research Info Packet and Phase 1 application are available on URGO’s website, linked below. For questions, contact urgo@augsburg.edu.

URGO Website

The Writing Center Is Open

submitted by mollberg@augsburg.edu

The Augsburg Writing Center is Now Open!

We will close at 6pm today due to a scheduling conflict. We will resume regular hours on Thursday.

The Augsburg University Writing Center is open and be ready to support your writing this semester! Our usual hours are Sunday–Thursday, 2–8 p.m. (in-person only). We are located across from Advising on the second floor of the library. Our Online Writing Center will open February 8th, available 6-8pm.

At the Writing Center, trained peer tutors work with writers at all levels and in all disciplines. Whether you are just beginning an assignment and need help generating ideas, in the middle of a draft and looking for feedback on structure or clarity, or polishing a final version before submitting, our tutors are here to help. They can also support you in developing stronger arguments, refining your style, citing sources, and building effective revision strategies.
You can bring in any kind of writing project—course essays, research papers, lab reports, resumes, personal statements, creative pieces, or even application materials. No matter the stage of the process or the type of writing, tutors provide constructive, supportive feedback that is focused on helping you grow as a writer.

Stop by during open hours to meet with a tutor and make the most of your writing this semester!

https://sites.augsburg.edu/writingcenter/

Posted onFebruary 3, 2026
Email a correction for this post: The Writing Center Is Open
Posted on

Important W-2 Tax and Wage Statement Updates

submitted by vachta@augsburg.edu

UPDATE: CORRECTED W-2s NOW AVAILABLE
The errors previously identified in Batch #03776 (regarding Group Term Life insurance calculations) have been resolved. Corrected W-2s are now available in Batch #04214.

TIMELINE & ACCESS
Digital: Corrected forms are available in the ADP portal as of today.

Mail: Paper statements for the updated batch will be mailed shortly. Please allow 7-10 days for delivery.

EMPLOYEES NOT IMPACTED
Errors were only identified on W-2s that include Group Term Life (GTL) insurance. Student employees, adjuncts, and employees at less than 0.75 FTE are not impacted. These individuals may use their Batch #03776 W-2 to file taxes and will not receive a corrected statement.

IF YOU HAVE NOT FILED YOUR TAXES
You are now Ready to File. Please log into the ADP portal and ensure you are using the W-2 from Batch #04214 to complete your tax return. Paper statements will be sent via mail, unless you have opted out. Please allow 7-10 days for delivery.
Important: Discard any previous versions of your 2025 W-2 from Batch #03776 to avoid reporting inaccuracies.

We appreciate your continued patience as we work to make this right. Please reach out to payroll@augsburg.edu with any questions.

Invitation to Participate in Research: Tinder Use and Mental Health Outcomes

submitted by bloyere@augsburg.edu

My name is Evan Bloyer, and I am a graduate student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program here at Augsburg University. My clinical research project is understanding how Tinder use impacts mental health outcomes, particularly self-esteem and body esteem. I have received Augsburg University’s IRB approval and am able to collect data from eligible participants. To participate, please click on the link below. Email me at bloyere@augsburg.edu for any questions or concerns. If you participate, you will be eligible for a raffle for one of four $25 Amazon gift cards.

Mental Health Survey

We Need You – Call for Staff and Faculty Proposals: Career Exploration Day – March 3

submitted by carrigan@augsburg.edu

We are excited to invite staff and faculty to submit presentation proposals for Career Exploration Day on Tuesday, March 3. All classes will be cancelled between 12pm and 5pm.

This campus-wide initiative is designed to support students in exploring career paths, connecting academic experiences to real-world opportunities, and building confidence in their future goals.

Goals of Career Exploration Day include:

– Meaningful Career Exploration: Providing sessions that help students explore career fields aligned with their interests and values, while gaining insight into how academic pathways translate into professional opportunities.
– Building Career Competencies: Supporting the development of essential skills, confidence, and self-awareness, such as communication, critical thinking, self-advocacy, and decision-making through interactive and hands-on learning experiences.
– Showcasing Partners: Engaging academic departments, campus partners, and employers to connect their work, programs, and expertise directly to students’ career development and future pathways.

We welcome session proposals that align with one or more of these goals. Presentations may focus on career pathways, transferable skills, industry insights, professional identity, or experiential learning opportunities connected to your role or department. Sessions may be informational, interactive, or discussion-based, and offered individually or collaboratively.
Interested in presenting?

Can’t present?
– Please encourage students in your classes/offices to engage with Career Exploration Day! This may take the form of a classroom announcement, a nudge to a student group, building a classroom assignment around the day, offering extra credit, meeting as a class and attending that afternoon or other ideas.

Please complete this short form by Sunday, February 8th 11:59pm.
Proposal Form: https://forms.gle/xUbAQzTnh8RxQuiu9
Thank you for your consideration, and we hope you’ll join us.

Career Exploration Day 2026 Proposals

Daily Chapel and Community Time: Interfaith Conversation and Candlelight Vigil

submitted by dames@augsburg.edu

In a conversation with Pastor Babette Chatman, Imam Sharif Mohamed will share about how the 5 pillars of faith in Islam help him live out his faith and support him in difficult times. Following chapel today, the Augsburg Day Student Government will lead a candlelight vigil in resistance to the harm being caused to our community. You are invited to participate through song and shining the light.

Come Hear Tara Mader Share Her Story

submitted by myers@augsburg.edu

How We Thrive
Stories of what it means to thrive – together.
Wednesday Feb 11 | 12:00 p.m. | Hoversten Chapel

Tara Mader joined the Kinesiology Department in 2018. She has a passion for teaching and mentoring students in STEM, embracing the learning that can come from experiences. Tara is also a founding member of the mindfulness team on campus, responsible for helping to bring Mindfulness Mondays to chapel each week. She champions the importance of self-care and taking time for rest and reflection. Her talk will focus on her own journey towards embracing smallness and the freedom it provides in our daily lives.

Annual Plant Sale – February 12

submitted by vaneck@augsburg.edu

FALL IN LOVE WITH A NEW PLANT!
The Biology Dept. Greenhouse is holding its annual plant sale.

Date: Thursday, February 12
Time: 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. (or sold out)
Where: Lobby of the Christensen Center

We’ll have easy-care houseplants, cacti and succulents, and carnivorous plants! Stocks of the most desirable species are limited, so get there early!

Cash, PayPal or Venmo accepted. Plant prices start at just $5. Funds raised directly support greenhouse operations and allow us to grow and care for our special plant collections.

Plant Sale Flyer

Opening Night TOMORROW – Come See the Student Led Play: STATIC

submitted by gebbengn@augsburg.edu

STATIC
by Lucía Salazar-Davidson and Kyle Hayes
directed by Lucía Salazar-Davidson

Come see STATIC, Augsburg’s Winter 2026 Student Production! Tickets are pay-what-you-can, with a minimum donation of $1. There will also be merchandise and snacks for sale in the lobby, with all profits going to support Twin Cities Trans Mutual Aid!

February 5–7 | 7 p.m.
February 8 | 3 p.m.

Tjornhom-Nelson Theater, Foss Center

A day at the state fair changes everything.
But are we certain we know what we know?

Lewis Palmer, radio-wave surfer and UFO enthusiast, works hard on his family’s sunflower farm, and has no plans to ever leave it. Joan Palmer, his younger sibling, wants to escape their rural South Dakota town at any cost, desperate to come out as queer and live free of the expectations of a suffocatingly close-knit community. On the one-year anniversary of their parents’ mysterious and untimely death, tensions rise to a snapping point as they deal with nosey neighbors, preparations for the state fair, and radio interference.

STATIC, a tragicomedy written by students Lucía Salazar-Davidson and Kyle Hayes, explores what we do in irredeemably harmful situations. Can we stay? Should we escape? What happens to the ones we leave behind? Through various misadventures, devastating miscommunications, a dash of music, and a sprinkle of sci-fi flair, this play aims to explore these questions.

TICKETS

STEM Alumni Gathering on February 12

submitted by moralesj@augsburg.edu

All current STEM students are invited to attend the 3rd Annual STEM Alumni Gathering which will take place on Thursday, February 12th from 5-7pm in Hagfors 150.

STEM alumni will be back on campus to share their stories of life after Augsburg. The evening will include time for an alumni panel, discipline specific table conversations, and unstructured mingling. All current STEM students are invited to come bring their questions and learn from the experiences of our alumni guests.

Registration is required. All students interested in attending should complete this registration form https://forms.gle/NeegyPPxz3kchVn28 as soon as possible.

STEM Alumni Gathering Registration Form

Student Poetry Prize

submitted by starckl@augsburg.edu

Submit to Augsburg’s John R. Mitchell / Academy of American Poets Prize
Deadline for Submission: 22 March 2026

This competition, endowed by Jean Mitchell in honor of the late John Mitchell, former English Department faculty member and poet, is for the best group of three poems composed by a current Augsburg undergraduate or graduate student. The award includes a $100 prize ($50 each, if split between two winners), a certificate from the Academy of American Poets, a one-year membership to the Academy of American Poets, and publication on poets.org.

CONDITIONS OF ENTRY
• A set of three well-proofread poems must be sent from your Augsburg email address as an attachment to starckl@augsburg.edu by March 22, 2026.
• Writers should put Mitchell Prize in the subject line.
• The email must contain the titles of the poems, and the poet’s full name, status (undergrad or grad), phone number, and mailing/permanent address.
• Winners will be announced by Augsburg University in early April.
• In the summer, the Academy will send a letter of congratulations and a certificate to each winner or honorable mention recipient. If two winners are chosen, the prize money will be divided between them.

CTL AI Workshop (February 10, Zoom): Start or Finish an AI-informed Assignment Update

submitted by yoon@augsburg.edu

CTL AI Workshop: Tues 02-10, 3:40–4:40 (Zoom)

This session is open to any faculty who want a quick, practical on-ramp. It supports both:
• Starters: begin an AI-informed update to one assignment
• Finishers: finalize and submit an existing update

Focus: make one assignment “AI-informed” with a clear AI policy, a short student disclosure, and two transparent verification options (no AI detectors).

RSVP (helps us plan breakouts): https://forms.gle/TGyFizXooAidSdvWA
Details and resources: go.augsburg.edu/aipilot

AI Workshop details + RSVP

Disabled Student Looking for Student PCA

submitted by dipaolaz@augsburg.edu

Hi, my name is Zander. I am a Senior, and I am disabled and in a wheelchair. I am looking for a backup PCA. I have a PCA come every day to help me with certain tasks in my dorm room. You would come when my main PCA needs a day off or can’t make it that day for different reasons. Some of the tasks would entail refilling water bottles, refilling humidifiers, and making a bed. Expect this to take 15 or 30 minutes out of your day. I will work with your schedule. You will schedule a time to come whenever it fits your schedule on a day my PCA can’t come. If you are interested in helping me out and scheduling an interview, contact me at (612)430-3233 or dipaolaz@augsburg.edu.

Augsburg Day Student Government Town Hall

submitted by wippicha@augsburg.edu

The Augsburg Day Student Government is hosting a Town Hall to address the increased federal presence in Minneapolis and how the University has responded. This event is on Tuesday, February 10th, from 6:30 PM to 8 PM in the chapel. There will also be a livestream of the event for Augsburg emails only.

RSVP with the link below if you plan to attend the event or watch the livestream (Link to the livestream will be sent out closer to the event time)

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSce5PK5MHNXr5xblQacqyJwAsnhNJqO4VACWqOD_5D2XWFRcg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=100410980633919581784

– This event is student-led and planned

Support Cedar Riverside Neighbors in Need

submitted by peacock@augsburg.edu

On Friday night (Jan. 30) a water pipe burst in the E building of Riverside Plaza, causing the displacement of nearly 100 families. Twelve floors were flooded with extensive damage done to the apartments and to the personal belongings of the residents. A Go Fund Me page has been established to support these residents. Donations will go directly toward helping displaced families with temporary housing, resettlement needs, basic necessities, and other urgent assistance. Please consider making a donation in support of these neighbors.

GoFundMe – Support for Critical Housing Needs

Cafe Joté – Meet This Morning at 9 am at the Sabo Offices in OGC

submitted by gilmerje@augsburg.edu

Businesses in Cedar-Riverside and Seward have been experiencing serious declines in sales–show up with your hearts and cash on Wednesday, February 4th at 9:00 am. We’ll meet at the Sabo Center in Oren Gateway Center (right across from Nabo Cafe) and will walk to Cafe Joté. They have some of the very best coffee in town, grab and go Ethiopian food, and cool gift-y stuff for sale. Cafe Joté is in the back of the brick building with the yellow KFAI sign on it in case you want to meet us there.

Stay tuned for more opportunities from the Sabo Center. We’re planning a date at a local spot once a week. If you would like to otherwise support neighborhood business, please check out our Augsburg Local website: https://www.augsburg.edu/sabo/programs/augsburg-local/. Lots of places have wonderful family platters that you can order for take-out, including Oasis, which is very close to campus. Email gilmerje@gmail.com with any questions or for recommendations!

If you would like to volunteer your time or share any skills/resources that you might have, please fill out this Google Form: https://forms.gle/o3NhLaz3Y7sSDXzd8

Registration Is Open for Day at the Capitol—March 10

submitted by farrisr@augsburg.edu

All Minnesota State Grant recipients, as well as interested faculty and staff, are invited to join us for Day at the Capitol 2026 to advocate for increased support for low- and middle-income college students. Our legislators need to hear from you about the Minnesota State Grant program!

What: 2026 Day at the Capitol
Date: Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Time: 8:45 a.m.–1:30 p.m. (plus travel time to St. Paul)

During Day at the Capitol, students will attend a Minnesota State Grant advocacy and lobbying training with student advocates from Augsburg and other Minnesota private colleges. Then you’ll meet with legislators and have (free) lunch at the Capitol. The Minnesota Private College Council will host a Q&A session with public policy experts and policymakers and will provide everything you need to be a successful advocate.

Sign up by February 24.

Have questions or need help? Email farrisr@augsburg.edu.

Learn more and register for Day at the Capitol (March 10).

Are you Muslim? Click Here to Answer Some Questions About Islamophobia

submitted by khanss@augsburg.edu

As-salamualaikum! My name is Sana Khan and I am currently a clinical psychology doctoral study student at Augsburg University. I am conducting a research study about how the mental health and religiosity of Muslim college students is impacted by Islamophobia and I would love to have you be a part of my study! The study will consist of an initial screener to make sure eligibility criteria is met and then scheduling an interview in which I ask you questions about your demographics and experience as a Muslim college student as related to Islam, religiosity, and Islamophobia. The interview should take approximately 25 minutes to 35 minutes to complete. To thank you for your participation, upon completion of your interview, there will be an option at the end for you to enter your information to receive a $10 Visa gift card. If you are interested in participating, please contact me at my email listed below. I appreciate you taking time to consider being a part of my project. Please contact Sana Khan at khanss@augsburg.edu to determine eligibility.

Adopt a Pet – Valentine’s Day

submitted by hansenll@augsburg.edu

Hi everyone! Our beloved Adopt a Pet event is back for Valentine’s Day! Mortensen and now the Anderson/Luther/OGC team will be hosting a bigger Adopt a Pet night! The plushies are keychains in Valentine’s Day theming with an option for your own choice or a mystery box (for the Labubu or PopMart lovers)!

While supplies last!

February 13, 6-8 pm, Urness-Mortensen Lobby

Auggie Life link

Due February 6: URGO Summer Research Phase 1 Application

submitted by lynchss7@augsburg.edu

Phase 1 applications are due Friday, February 6 at 11:59 PM. Now is the time to connect with faculty members to explore the research and creative projects happening in your department.

The URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Program is an 11-week, on-campus experience (May 18–July 31) that supports students conducting research or creative work alongside a faculty mentor. Full-time participants (400 hours) receive a $6,000 stipend plus a housing discount, while half-time participants (200 hours) receive a $3,000 stipend and a housing discount.

URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Assistantships
URGO also offers assistantships for students interested in working as research assistants on ongoing faculty projects. This option involves a 100-hour summer commitment and includes a $1,500 stipend. Assistantships are a great way to explore research for the first time or to contribute to a focused component of a larger project.

The Summer Research Info Packet and Phase 1 application are available on URGO’s website, linked below. For questions, contact urgo@augsburg.edu.

URGO Website

Invitation to Participate in Research: Tinder Use and Mental Health Outcomes

submitted by bloyere@augsburg.edu

My name is Evan Bloyer, and I am a graduate student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program here at Augsburg University. My clinical research project is understanding how Tinder use impacts mental health outcomes, particularly self-esteem and body esteem. I have received Augsburg University’s IRB approval and am able to collect data from eligible participants. To participate, please click on the link below. Email me at bloyere@augsburg.edu for any questions or concerns. If you participate, you will be eligible for a raffle for one of four $25 Amazon gift cards.

Mental Health Survey

Join Us Next Week for an Open House at Lindell Library

submitted by cliftonk@augsburg.edu

Staff Senate is bringing colleagues together by creating intimate opportunities to connect, collaborate, and discover the amazing work happening across our campus.

Rescheduled from last semester is the Open House with Lindell Library
When: Wednesday, 2/11 from 9:00 – 10:30
Where: Lindell Library Clubhouse (First Floor)

What to expect:
Complimentary donuts and refreshments
A firsthand look at latest improvements and enhancements
Optional behind-the-scenes tours of our archives (a rare peek into our collection!)

We can’t wait to see you there!

STEM Alumni Gathering on February 12

submitted by moralesj@augsburg.edu

All current STEM students are invited to attend the 3rd Annual STEM Alumni Gathering which will take place on Thursday, February 12th from 5-7pm in Hagfors 150.

STEM alumni will be back on campus to share their stories of life after Augsburg. The evening will include time for an alumni panel, discipline specific table conversations, and unstructured mingling. All current STEM students are invited to come bring their questions and learn from the experiences of our alumni guests.

Registration is required. All students interested in attending should complete this registration form https://forms.gle/NeegyPPxz3kchVn28 as soon as possible and no later than February 5th.

STEM Alumni Gathering Registration Form

Supporting Our Neighbors: Cafe Joté – Wednesday at 9 a.m.

submitted by gilmerje@augsburg.edu

Businesses in Cedar-Riverside and Seward have been experiencing serious declines in sales–show up with your hearts and cash on Wednesday, February 4th at 9:00 am. We’ll meet at the Sabo Center in Oren Gateway Center (right across from Nabo Cafe) and will walk to Cafe Joté. They have some of the very best coffee in town, grab and go Ethiopian food, and cool gift-y stuff for sale. Cafe Joté is in the back of the brick building with the yellow KFAI sign on it in case you want to meet us there.

Stay tuned for more opportunities from the Sabo Center. We’re planning a date at a local spot once a week. If you would like to otherwise support neighborhood business, please check out our Augsburg Local website: https://www.augsburg.edu/sabo/programs/augsburg-local/. Lots of places have wonderful family platters that you can order for take-out, including Oasis, which is very close to campus. Email gilmerje@gmail.com with any questions or for recommendations!

If you would like to volunteer your time or share any skills/resources that you might have, please fill out this Google Form: https://forms.gle/o3NhLaz3Y7sSDXzd8

Chocolate Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day

submitted by martin31@augsburg.edu

Decadent Chocolate covered strawberries!
$30 a dozen.
$40 for LOVE box with 13-15 strawberries.
LIMITED SUPPLY LOVE BOXES
PRE-ORDER NOW FOR VALENTINES DAY.
Free delivery available anywhere between Cambridge and the twin cities!
Made with your choice of dark, milk or white Ghirardelli chocolate!
Toppings include various sprinkles and drizzles.
Every box custom to your order!
Can do smaller boxes upon request just message!
Upgrades:
Keto chocolate and toppings+$5
Organic +$7
Homemade caramel drizzle with sea salt +$7
Food safe certified through the state of MN and registered cottage baker.

Order here

Support Cedar Riverside Neighbors in Need

submitted by peacock@augsburg.edu

On Friday night a main water pipe burst in the E building of Riverside Plaza, causing the displacement of nearly 100 families. Twelve floors were flooded with extensive damage done to the apartments and to the personal belongings of the residents. A Go Fund Me page has been established to support these residents. Donations will go directly toward helping displaced families with temporary housing, resettlement needs, basic necessities, and other urgent assistance. Please consider making a donation in support of these neighbors.

GoFundMe – Support for Critical Housing Needs

Blind Date with a Book Is Back at the Library

submitted by cronink@augsburg.edu

Whether you’re searching for true literary love or just a casual read, we’ve got something for you on the new Blind Date With a Book display. Each book, movie and game comes with a genre and description so you can be sure you’re finding the perfect match. Choose a date, check it out with the James self-service kiosk, and enjoy! This display will be up through late-February on the first floor of Lindell Library.

You could find your next five-star fave, don’t miss out!

Important W-2 Tax and Wage Statement Updates

submitted by vachta@augsburg.edu

IDENTIFYING W-2 ERRORS
W-2s in Batch #03776 that include Plus GTL in the gross pay calculations contain errors. This impacts regular faculty and staff employed at over 0.75 FTE during 2025. DO NOT FILE YOUR TAXES YET.

EMPLOYEES NOT IMPACTED
Errors were only identified on W-2s that include Group Term Life (GTL) insurance. Student employees, adjuncts, and employees at less than 0.75 FTE are not impacted. These individuals may use their current W-2 to file taxes and will not receive a corrected statement.

IF YOU HAVE NOT FILED YOUR TAXES
Please do not file your taxes until you receive your corrected W-2c and an email from Augsburg Payroll stating you are Ready to File. This ensures your reporting is 100 percent accurate.

IF YOU HAVE ALREADY FILED YOUR TAXES
Please contact payroll@augsburg.edu immediately for instructions on the next steps for your specific situation.

TIMELINE FOR CORRECTIONS
ADP expects corrected W-2s to be available in the portal by Thursday, February 5. Paper statements will be mailed shortly after.

We appreciate your continued patience as we work to make this right. Please reach out to payroll@augsburg.edu with any questions.

Life Skills (for Challenging Times Like These) – A Group for Healing and Growing

submitted by phalp1@augsburg.edu

Life Skills is a weekly interactive group that focuses on developing skills for navigating life’s challenges and building a meaningful and fulfilling life. The group will meet on weekly Wednesday afternoons, starting on February 4th, from 4:00 – 5:30 in the CWC.

Food will be provided.

https://www.instagram.com/p/DUQlThTDRah/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The Writing Center Is Open

submitted by mollberg@augsburg.edu

The Augsburg Writing Center is Now Open!

The Augsburg University Writing Center is open and be ready to support your writing this semester! Our hours are Sunday–Thursday, 2–8 p.m. (in-person only). We are located across from Advising on the second floor of the library. Our Online Writing Center will open February 8th, available 6-8pm.

At the Writing Center, trained peer tutors work with writers at all levels and in all disciplines. Whether you are just beginning an assignment and need help generating ideas, in the middle of a draft and looking for feedback on structure or clarity, or polishing a final version before submitting, our tutors are here to help. They can also support you in developing stronger arguments, refining your style, citing sources, and building effective revision strategies.
You can bring in any kind of writing project—course essays, research papers, lab reports, resumes, personal statements, creative pieces, or even application materials. No matter the stage of the process or the type of writing, tutors provide constructive, supportive feedback that is focused on helping you grow as a writer.

Stop by during open hours to meet with a tutor and make the most of your writing this semester!

https://sites.augsburg.edu/writingcenter/

Important W-2 Tax and Wage Statement Updates

submitted by vachta@augsburg.edu

IDENTIFYING W-2 ERRORS
W-2s in Batch #03776 that include Plus GTL in the gross pay calculations contain errors. This impacts regular faculty and staff employed at over 0.75 FTE during 2025. DO NOT FILE YOUR TAXES YET.

EMPLOYEES NOT IMPACTED
Errors were only identified on W-2s that include Group Term Life (GTL) insurance. Student employees, adjuncts, and employees at less than 0.75 FTE are not impacted. These individuals may use their current W-2 to file taxes and will not receive a corrected statement.

IF YOU HAVE NOT FILED YOUR TAXES
Please do not file your taxes until you receive your corrected W-2c and an email from Augsburg Payroll stating you are Ready to File. This ensures your reporting is 100 percent accurate.

IF YOU HAVE ALREADY FILED YOUR TAXES
Please contact payroll@augsburg.edu immediately for instructions on the next steps for your specific situation.

TIMELINE FOR CORRECTIONS
ADP expects corrected W-2s to be available in the portal by Thursday, February 5. Paper statements will be mailed shortly after.

We appreciate your continued patience as we work to make this right. Please reach out to payroll@augsburg.edu with any questions.

Disabled Student Looking for Student PCA

submitted by dipaolaz@augsburg.edu

Hi, my name is Zander. I am a Senior, and I am disabled and in a wheelchair. I am looking for a backup PCA. I have a PCA come every day to help me with certain tasks in my dorm room. You would come when my main PCA needs a day off or can’t make it that day for different reasons. Some of the tasks would entail refilling water bottles, refilling humidifiers, and making a bed. Expect this to take 15 or 30 minutes out of your day. I will work with your schedule. You will schedule a time to come whenever it fits your schedule on a day my PCA can’t come. If you are interested in helping me out and scheduling an interview, contact me at (612)430-3233 or dipaolaz@augsburg.edu.

Are You Muslim? Click Here to Answer Some Questions About Islamophobia

submitted by khanss@augsburg.edu

As-salamualaikum! My name is Sana Khan and I am currently a clinical psychology doctoral study student at Augsburg University. I am conducting a research study about how the mental health and religiosity of Muslim college students is impacted by Islamophobia and I would love to have you be a part of my study! The study will consist of an initial screener to make sure eligibility criteria is met and then scheduling an interview in which I ask you questions about your demographics and experience as a Muslim college student as related to Islam, religiosity, and Islamophobia. The interview should take approximately 25 minutes to 35 minutes to complete. To thank you for your participation, upon completion of your interview, there will be an option at the end for you to enter your information to receive a $10 Visa gift card. If you are interested in participating, please contact me at my email listed below. I appreciate you taking time to consider being a part of my project. Please contact Sana Khan at khanss@augsburg.edu to determine eligibility.

The Writing Center Opens Tuesday February 3

submitted by mollberg@augsburg.edu

The Augsburg Writing Center is Now Open!

The Augsburg University Writing Center is open and be ready to support your writing this semester! Our hours are Sunday–Thursday, 2–8 p.m. (in-person only). We are located across from Advising on the second floor of the library. Our Online Writing Center will open February 8th, available 6-8pm.

At the Writing Center, trained peer tutors work with writers at all levels and in all disciplines. Whether you are just beginning an assignment and need help generating ideas, in the middle of a draft and looking for feedback on structure or clarity, or polishing a final version before submitting, our tutors are here to help. They can also support you in developing stronger arguments, refining your style, citing sources, and building effective revision strategies.
You can bring in any kind of writing project—course essays, research papers, lab reports, resumes, personal statements, creative pieces, or even application materials. No matter the stage of the process or the type of writing, tutors provide constructive, supportive feedback that is focused on helping you grow as a writer.

Stop by during open hours to meet with a tutor and make the most of your writing this semester!

https://sites.augsburg.edu/writingcenter/

Invitation to Participate in Research: Tinder Use and Mental Health Outcomes

submitted by bloyere@augsburg.edu

My name is Evan Bloyer, and I am a graduate student in the Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology program here at Augsburg University. My clinical research project is understanding how Tinder use impacts mental health outcomes, particularly self-esteem and body esteem. I have received Augsburg University’s IRB approval and am able to collect data from eligible participants. To participate, please click on the link below. Email me at bloyere@augsburg.edu for any questions or concerns. If you participate, you will be eligible for a raffle for one of four $25 Amazon gift cards.

Mental Health Survey

Supporting Our Neighbors: Cafe Joté – Wednesday at 9 a.m.

submitted by gilmerje@augsburg.edu

Businesses in Cedar-Riverside and Seward have been experiencing serious declines in sales–show up with your hearts and cash on Wednesday, February 4th at 9:00 am. We’ll meet at the Sabo Center in Oren Gateway Center (right across from Nabo Cafe) and will walk to Cafe Joté. They have some of the very best coffee in town, grab and go Ethiopian food, and cool gift-y stuff for sale. Cafe Joté is in the back of the brick building with the yellow KFAI sign on it in case you want to meet us there.

Stay tuned for more opportunities from the Sabo Center. We’re planning a date at a local spot once a week. If you would like to otherwise support neighborhood business, please check out our Augsburg Local website: https://www.augsburg.edu/sabo/programs/augsburg-local/. Lots of places have wonderful family platters that you can order for take-out, including Oasis, which is very close to campus. Email gilmerje@gmail.com with any questions or for recommendations!

If you would like to volunteer your time or share any skills/resources that you might have, please fill out this Google Form: https://forms.gle/o3NhLaz3Y7sSDXzd8

Chocolate Covered Strawberries for Valentine’s Day

submitted by martin31@augsburg.edu

$30 a dozen.
$40 for I ❤️ U box with 13-16 strawberries.
LIMITED SUPPLY I ❤️ U BOXES
PRE-ORDER NOW FOR VALENTINES DAY.
Free delivery available anywhere between Cambridge and the twin cities!
Made with your choice of dark, milk or white Ghirardelli chocolate!
Toppings include various sprinkles and drizzles.
Every box custom to your order!
Can do smaller boxes upon request just message!
Upgrades:
Keto chocolate and toppings+$5
Organic +$7
Homemade caramel drizzle with sea salt +$7
Food safe certified through the state of MN and registered cottage baker.

Order here

Valentine Treat Pre-Orders Close on Friday

submitted by chuma@augsburg.edu

There’s nothing like the Minneapolis community spirit to keep things bright. We’re down to the final days for Valentine’s Day treat box pre-orders! Show some love to an Augsburg-employee run business and treat yourself to something special. Pre-orders close Feb 6th—don’t miss out!

Pre-Order the Rose & Cocoa Box!

Want to Improve Your Sleep?

submitted by phalp1@augsburg.edu

Before we start…

I want to acknowledge that many students are navigating a lot right now. With current events affecting our communities, stress, uncertainty, and disrupted sleep are very real — and it’s okay if things feel heavier than usual.

With that in mind, I’m sharing a gentle, optional invitation to participate in a Sleep Hygiene Education Project as part of my Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) work. This project is designed to support college students who may be feeling overwhelmed, fatigued, or simply in need of rest.

Why consider joining?

Learn evidence-based strategies for better sleep

Receive a personalized sleep plan

Support focus, energy, and academic well-being

Opportunities to receive sleep-related items (Hatch alarm clock, blue-light glasses, aromatherapy, etc.

Participation is completely voluntary, and both undergraduate and graduate students are welcome. Choosing not to participate will not affect you in any way.

If and when it feels right for you, you can scan the QR code on the flyer or email me directly for more information. There is no pressure — your well-being comes first.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and please take care of yourselves and one another.

Warmly,
Nikki Truong
truongn@augsburg.edu

https://www.instagram.com/p/DT-oamgjUF3/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

Due February 6: URGO Summer Research Phase 1 Application

submitted by philldal@augsburg.edu

URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Program — All Disciplines Welcome!
Phase 1 applications are due Friday, February 6 at 11:59 PM. Now is the time to connect with faculty members to explore the research and creative projects happening in your department.

The URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Program is an 11-week, on-campus experience (May 18–July 31) that supports students conducting research or creative work alongside a faculty mentor. Full-time participants (400 hours) receive a $6,000 stipend plus a housing discount, while half-time participants (200 hours) receive a $3,000 stipend and a housing discount.

URGO Summer Research & Creative Activity Assistantships
URGO also offers assistantships for students interested in working as research assistants on ongoing faculty projects. This option involves a 100-hour summer commitment and includes a $1,500 stipend. Assistantships are a great way to explore research for the first time or to contribute to a focused component of a larger project.

The Summer Research Info Packet and Phase 1 application are available on URGO’s website, linked below. For questions, contact urgo@augsburg.edu.

URGO Website

Blind Date With a Book Is Back at the Library

submitted by cronink@augsburg.edu

Whether you’re searching for true literary love or just a casual read, we’ve got something for you on the new Blind Date With a Book display. Each book, movie and game comes with a genre and description so you can be sure you’re finding the perfect match. Choose a date, check it out with the James self-service kiosk, and enjoy! This display will be up through late-February on the first floor of Lindell Library.

You could find your next five-star fave, don’t miss out!

CTL AI Workshop (February 10, Zoom): Start or Finish an AI-informed Assignment Update

submitted by yoon@augsburg.edu

CTL AI Workshop: Tues 02-10, 3:40–4:40 (Zoom)

This session is open to any faculty who want a quick, practical on-ramp. It supports both:
• Starters: begin an AI-informed update to one assignment
• Finishers: finalize and submit an existing update

Focus: make one assignment “AI-informed” with a clear AI policy, a short student disclosure, and two transparent verification options (no AI detectors).

RSVP (helps us plan breakouts): https://forms.gle/TGyFizXooAidSdvWA
Details and resources: go.augsburg.edu/aipilot

AI Workshop details + RSVP