Annual Report 2008-09University Unions

Union League Pierpont

Division of Student Affairs

1

Table of Contents

Sustainable Solutions Student Award Winners

Featurespages 4-7

Michigan Union Pierpont Commons Michigan League

Facilitiespages 9-11

Food Services Event Services Arts & Programs

Servicespages 12-17

Marketing & Graphics Maintenance Financial Self-Ops Business Partners

Supportpages 18-25

Leadership Staff: page 27

Credits: page 29

1

Division of Student Affairs

Dear Friends and Colleagues:

Each year I am given the opportunity to provide an introductory letter for our annual report, to give you a sense of what to expect, and to allude to a theme that might carry throughout the document. The first indication of what to expect in this year’s report is that it is being produced digitally and shared elec-tronically. While a handful of physical copies will be printed, our intent is to transition the annual report to an electronic communication piece. It is our goal to maintain the same attractive style and rich content of University Unions annual updates, but to do it effectively in electronic format. The question we will be asking ourselves is whether or not a highly attractive digital update is as effective in communi-cating with our stakeholders? Will they read it? Do we need to look at a different approach? With this in mind, don’t be surprised if you receive a phone call or survey asking if the new delivery method worked for you.

At one time the three R’s conveyed the fundamentals of a basic education. Today we recognize the value to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. Going digital with this annual report is certainly one way University Unions can reduce our use of paper. My favorite Reuse in University Unions is the annual ‘Swap & Shop’ event. Similar to a garage sale, departments pass along unused office equipment to another department that can use it. Besides the typical containers in our buildings, University Unions regularly looks at recy-cling opportunities. For example, in a recent renova-tion of a retail operation we were able to recycle 98% of the metal taken out during demolition.

An expansion of the three R’s is the larger topic of sustainability, and this in fact is a theme you will see in this year’s annual report. In some ways, the original buildings have fulfilled a sustainable model. For example, many of the original materials used in the League and Union are of such a quality that the buildings have withstood 80 and 90 years of Michi-gan winters and millions of visitors. At the same time, operating older legacy buildings does create challenges not considered when the Unions were first built, and we continue to explore avenues for the University Unions to lessen our environmental impact.

In addition to a focus on sustainability, this annual summary will give you an overview of the many exciting changes and developments in University Unions. I hope you find it both interesting and infor-mative. As usual, your comments and suggestions are always welcome, so do feel free to send me an electronic message to the email address indicated.

"At one time the three R’s conveyed the fundamentals of a basic educa-tion. Today we recognize the value to

Reduce, Reuse and Recycle."

Sincerely,

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

2

OverviewUniversity 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 pro-grams that support and encourage student development and student learning, and that enhance

the overall educational experience of students.

FacilitiesThe work of University Unions takes place in three student union buildings on campus: The Michigan Union and

Michigan League on Central Campus, and Pierpont Commons on North Campus. Within these three buildings, three service units operate to support the organization: Arts and Programs, Event Services and Food Services. These units, with the assistance of Administration, Business Operations and Maintenance, provide a full range of services, ameni-ties and resources that support the campus community. The Unions serve as places to study and relax, meet friends, grab food, check email, get involved with a student organization, attend an event and access resources outside of the classroom. With over 500,000 square feet of space, there are many meeting rooms of various sizes available for use. University Catering operates kitchens out of all three buildings as well as providing off-premise service throughout campus. Within the Michigan League is a 21-room hotel with unmatched access to Central Campus. Besides serving

students, University Unions is a valuable resource to University faculty, staff, alumni and guests.

Retail and Support ServicesUniversity Unions offers a full range of services which help with daily campus life. Each of the three buildings offers a variety of self-operated as well as brand name restaurants and cafés. Banking/ATMs, travel, computer supply and repair, a Ticketmaster outlet and campus box office, full service bookstores and convenience stores are available to

assist students, faculty and staff. Also within the Unions are a variety of campus offices to help students and others in navigating their time at the University of Michigan.

Professional ConsultationThe Unions also house support services for individuals as well as student organizations including meeting and confer-ence management guidance, student organization accounting assistance, advertising/graphic design help, and major event production. There are leadership and skill-based opportunities available to students either on a volunteer or paid employee basis. UU provides a comprehensive orientation session and end of the year awards presentation for

student employees.

3

Part of the way that Uni-versity Unions can enrich student life is through efforts that contribute to making the world a better place for future generations, and involving students in the process. There are many ways that University Unions has begun to take steps to support environmen-tal sustainability. These efforts involve all depart-ments and all facilities in an initiative that will never have an end date, but will certainly move the results further along a continuum. To help guide the efforts, a University Unions Sus-tainability Planning and Guiding Team has been developed. The team was given the charge of as-sessing the sustainability efforts currently in place, including recycling, energy efficiency efforts, food waste programs, and use of recycled and biodegrad-able products. The team also established realistic goals and is working coop-eratively with the Uni-versity Unions key units, including Maintenance,

Sustainable Solutions for the Future

Food Services and the three facilities, to enhance current programs and es-tablish new programs. The team is also benchmarking with peer institutions and developing a strategic sus-tainability plan for UU.A recent undertaking by the Planning and Guiding team involved working with a group of students from U-M’s School of Natural Re-sources’ Environment 302 class who were featuring the Unions as the subject of their sustainability project. The group’s work resulted in a comprehensive action plan that the Planning and Guiding team can follow into the future.

While the formal organi-zation of sustainability initiatives was developed this year, much work has already been done by UU departments and facili-ties. Key efforts under-taken by the three Union facilities have included:

Michigan Union • Completed the change-

over to using all green chemicals for cleaning.

• Purchased replacement and additional recycling bins for the facility.

• Installation of digital signage to reduce paper signage (Michigan League and Pierpont Commons, also).

Michigan League• At the Inn at the League,

replaced mattress pads with EcoPure “green” (made from recycled bottles); replaced washer and dryer used to laun-der linens with a more efficient washer which monitors soap product use, decreases dry time and uses less water; in-creased the use of email to confirm reservations instead of mailing paper confirmations; installed recycled carpet pad in guest rooms.

• Provided recycling bins during student move out.

• Encouraged greater re-cycling of paper, plastic, glass and cans in the League by providing re-ceptacles for these items in the first floor hallway.

• Changed the hand soaps in the first-third floors to

green-certified products and switched to a green-certified graffiti remover and a restroom deodor-izer.

• Archived the minutes, handouts, agendas, com-mittee reports, etc. from the Board of Governors from 1930-2007 at the Bentley Historical Library.

Pierpont Commons• Installed recycled floor

tile on the Lower Level.

• Worked with UU Food Services to install single napkin dispensers in all UU food operations.

• Currently working with lease partners to replace Styrofoam containers.

• Implemented green-cer-tified cleaning products through Plant BuildingServices.

Each of the UU depart-ments has undertaken sustainable actions in the way they do business including:

University Unions Arts and Programs• STAC purchased a large

4

5

bin for the specific purpose of recycling raw wood from the sets made by student organizations.

• Plans are underway to purchase a new printer that can print double sided, add recycle bins to every desk, reuse paper that can be printed on re-verse side, install motion sensor lights, and print fewer flyers.

Event Services• Converted paper newslet-

ter to electronic format. Included sustainability efforts article, featuring locally-source food initia-tives, in newsletter to help educate clients.

Food Services• Implementation of a new

insulated beverage cup at all cafés that eliminates need for a “java jacket," while providing a way to communicate ways the cafés are helping the environment.

• Sale of reusable beverage tumblers in all of the UU eateries.

• Increased use of green certified cleaning prod-ucts in food operations.

• Strategic use of local and organic food items in each of the operations and by University Cater-ing. By utilizing sustain-able food purchasing practices, UU can help reduce the environmental impact of growing food as well as lower the costs of food transportation (if products are purchased locally).

• Purified water refill station added to U-go’s in the Michigan Union, along with refillable water containers available for purchase.

Maintenance• Installation of digital,

automatic temperature controls in the buildings that are set to maintain themselves at lower tem-peratures in the winter and higher temperatures in the summer. This allows for less energy us-age in both temperature extremes.

• Promotion of “Turn off the Lights” campaign. This includes stickers and other appropriate signage in different visible locations in the buildings meant to curb unneces-sary energy consumption.

Marketing and Graphics• Increased utilization of

recycled papers.

• Decrease in quantities of printed pieces with increased availability of finding materials online.

• New wayfinding sig-nage to be made out of recycled materials.

In addition, Univesity Unions is continually seeking ways to educate its staff on energy sav-ing and recycling tips through employee news-letters, films and other internal communications efforts.

6

On April 1, 2009, Univer-sity Unions honored its student employees with the 3rd annual Student Employee Celebration and Awards Banquet. Held in the Michigan Union Ballroom, the event brought together over 150 employees, plus UU permanent staff, to celebrate the students’ contributions to the Unions throughout the year. Forty-five students were nominated for five significant awards and the awards went to:

True Blue Award – Out-standing Student Em-ployee of the YearArron Stroud, Michigan League Set-Up Team Leader

Arron’s supervisor de-scribed him as extraor-dinary. During the three years he has worked with his department he has grown and developed into the most critical member of the team. He took it upon

himself to organize the other experienced em-ployees to be mentors for the newest employees. His motivation was to leave his legacy of hard work. Arron’s work ethic has been unquestionable. He always worked to ensure his team could be proud of their work. This honoree also took the initiative to learn other operations in the building so that he could better assist customers and co-workers.

"His positive at-titude was a mo-tivating force for teammates and he even led his team in implementing the FISH philosophy.'' As a strong decision maker, Arron found solutions to problems before they even reached his supervisor.

Michigan Difference Award – InitiativeLori Meehan, UU Arts and Programs

Lori came to University Unions this past fall as a transfer student so she had little knowledge of UUAP’s prior programming efforts. Nonetheless, she eagerly took the reins of a major event. She recruited sever-al student organizations to be involved in the planning process without having any contacts. She willingly cold called or emailed students, sometimes more than once – in her words, “…it’s not stalking, it’s ‘pursuing’…” – and this yielded great results. She also created several new components to this program. And lastly, she has already taken the initiative to recruit students to form a commit-tee that has begun plan-ning this event for the next year. Lori’s supervisor was impressed with her initia-tive, drive and passion for Michigan.

Maize Cranium Award – Problem SolvingPeggy Tambouridis, Michigan Union Ticket Office

Peggy was viewed as the “go to person” for nearly everything in the ticket department. She used all of her resources, experi-ence, and knowledge to understand an issue. She identified several ways to improve efficiency and ac-curacy in her department. Not only did she identify problems, she offered solu-tions. In one situation, the daily sales were not balanc-ing properly. The next day when Peggy arrived at work she dove into this challenge and within minutes had found the issue and made the adjustment. Peggy also used her problem solving skills to provide excellent customer service. On several occasions she effectively thought on her feet how to handle an issue with a customer. She was able to find the root of the problem and offer an excel-lent solution.

Student Employee Award Winners

7

Student Employee Award Winners

Got It Award – Customer ServiceDaniel Zettner, Michigan Union Ticket Office

The nominator wrote that Daniel cared about the experience of every single customer who approached the office. He went out of his way to make sure that every customer left happy. He paid attention to what the customer was saying and made sure that they got exactly what they were asking for. He didn’t stop there, though

-" he went above and beyond to pro-vide the customer with extra details that they didn’t even ask for ". . .such as suggesting res-taurants or giving trans-portation directions. One perfect example of Daniel’s dedication to his custom-ers occurred in December during a production of the Nutcracker. The customer

explained that she had purchased tickets because her daughter was in the production, but part of the set was blocking her view of the stage. Without the customer even asking, Daniel arranged for her to watch the show from a bet-ter seat without paying any extra money.

New Wolverine Award – Outstanding New EmployeeRavtaj Singh, University Unions Event Services, Michigan League

The work ethic of Ravtaj impressed his supervi-sor from his first day on the job. His enthusiasm, dedication, and positive attitude were unparal-leled. Ravtaj was happy to work through his sched-uled breaks until all his tasks were completed, and his sense of urgency inspired his fellow team-mates. Equally inspiring was Ravtaj’s dedication to his team, always jumping in to help and covering shifts wherever needed. When chosen as the team’s MVP one month, he even wrote a thank-you letter to his teammates and his supervi-sor saying how lucky he felt to be part of their team.

" In addition to this employee’s work ethic, he also brought a sense of humor and plenty of fun to the job, making him a “legend” among his team in only a few short months."

8

9

The vibrant activi-

ties that take place

within its walls

matched with its

central location on

campus make the

Michigan Union

an integral part of

daily campus life.

This is especially

evident during

election years

when the campus

community seeks

gathering spots for

increased discus-

sion and debate.

Highlights of the 2008 Election Year events included:

• In October, the Progres-sive Alliance student organization hosted Ralph Nader in the Union Ballroom.

• The night before election day, College Democrats met with Governor Jen-nifer Granholm in the Ballroom.

• An election night returns watch party took place in the University Club.

• The Ballroom became a magnet drawing students in to watch the historic live coverage of the Presi-dential Inauguration.

Additional highlights for the Michigan Union over the past year included:

• Replacement of the Ball-room roof was completed

• The opening of two new restaurants in the MUG eatery area: Panda Ex-press and Pizza Hut Ex-press, with very positive reactions from students.

The Michigan Union Board of Representatives had some notable accomplish-ments including awarding Michigan Union Schol-arships to two student employees, working with the Operation Diversity student organization to install a diversity mural in the Union Computing Site, and participating in a re-storative justice circle with a group who had stolen furniture from the Michigan Union.

The Michigan Union

Photo by Said Alsalah/Michigan Daily

Pierpont Commons’ location adjacent to

the University bus system’s North Campus

drop off, along with its proximity to sev-

eral major schools and colleges, libraries,

several residence halls and apartments,

bring 7,000-10,000 students, staff and

faculty regularly through its doors. Pier-

pont serves as the main resource center

for North Campus featuring a variety

of eateries, retail services, meeting and

gathering spaces, study areas as well as

events and activities from University

Unions Arts and Programs. It’s a dynamic

place, always adjusting to best serve the

needs of the ever growing North Campus

community.

Highlights at Pier-pont Commons for the 2008/2009 year included:

On February 24th, the main hallway and Piano Lounge were transformed into a Hollywood movie set as the film crew for “Betty Anne Waters” came to town. Over 100 student extras were on hand to provide “background” for scenes featuring Hilary Swank and Minnie Driver. Rooms in Pierpont were transformed into hair, make-up and wardrobe areas. All of the retail signage in the main hallway was changed to make it look like Roger Williams University, which luckily has similar school colors to U-M. Even em-ployees from the various businesses and offices within the building donned sunglasses to show off their “star” qualities.

An electronic newsletter, called Pierpont Commons Passages, was developed to help keep former student employees connected to Pierpont and to create phil-anthropic opportunities. Articles for the first edition were written by Pierpont staff, the Vice Chair of the Pierpont Commons Board of Representatives (TPCBR) and UU Arts and Program staff. Future edi-tions will feature contribu-tions from faculty and staff from neighboring academic units and alumni.

Electronic updates includ-ed a new TV for Commons Corner, new email stations in Beanster’s Café, and a new Hearing Impaired Video Machine installed on the second floor to provide additional communications options.

The Pierpont Commons Board of Representa-tives had an active year resulting in the follow-ing accomplishments:

An active goal setting work-shop resulted in the Board determining goals to focus on which are improving parking and transportation on North Campus, building community on North Cam-pus, creating an aesthetic identity for The Pierpont Commons that defines it as a gateway to North Campus, and strengthening the overall presence of The Pierpont Commons Board of Representatives.

The Art Committee pur-chased art from the U-M Faculty Women’s Club and also established a relation-ship with Professor Jim Cogswell from the School of Art and Design to obtain artwork from students to display in public areas.

Pierpont Commons

10

The Michigan League

The classic building elements including beautiful stained glass

windows, polished slate and Pewabic tiled floors, and handsome

oak and walnut paneling, set the stage at the Michigan League

for enjoyable experiences for its visitors. In addition to the at-

tractive surroundings, the League takes pride in offering a vari-

ety of services and resources for the entire

campus community.

Key happenings at the League in the 2008/2009 year included:

The opening of a Taco Bell Express in the Under-ground in September, 2008 has quickly become a popu-lar destination for students, faculty and staff.

Wireless installation was finalized in most of the building making even the lobby area and hallways convenient and comfort-able places to stop between classes to use laptops.

Guest rooms at the Inn at the League were refreshed with new carpeting, painting upgrades and refurbished luggage racks. Additionally, sparkling new coffee and tea buffets were purchased for the Inn’s gratis beverage service for guests.

The occupancy rate for the Inn was 4.7% above the Ann Arbor average in 2008. For the first quarter of 2009, the Inn continued to be 5.7% above the local market.

The Friends of the League

hangs in the Henderson Room. Alten’s love of the American Midwestern landscape and admiration for the Midwesterner work ethic dominate his works.

11

secured the restoration and framing of a painting of a weathered tree by Mathias Alten, a German-born artist who immigrated to the US in 1889. The painting now

The Women’s Faculty Club donated the funds to purchase a high-powered exterior light to accent the stained glass window in the center stairway of the Michigan League. The window is a popular photo backdrop for brides who hold their weddings at the League and the lighting helps enhance the colorful glass while showcasing the beaming brides, as well.

12

This past year proved to be busy as well

as rewarding for University Unions

Food Services (UUFS). Throughout the

year, many vendor tastings were set up

to showcase products offered within the

operations proving to be a big draw for

students. The merchandising and mar-

keting efforts for U-go’s Express in the

Michigan League, in particular, were

nationally recognized with a “C-Store Best

in Business” award from the National As-

sociation of College and University Food

Services (NACUFS).

Food ServicesUUFS continued to com-municate and promote the MHealthy GOOD CHOICE food options available in all of the eateries. A new GOOD CHOICE dining guide was designed and distributed across campus which highlighted the prod-ucts within all of the Uni-versity Unions operations that meet the MHealthy nutrition guidelines. The booklet was well received and it reinforced the con-tinued interest in making a wide variety of healthy options available.

Bert’s Café, which opened in the Shapiro Undergradu-ate Library in February 2008, has become a very popular destination for stu-dents and a financial suc-cess for University Unions. It exceeded all projections for the year.

UUFS put on several Business Dining Etiquette presentations to graduat-ing seniors. The sessions proved very popular as many students wanted to learn the proper way to act in certain business settings as they enter the profes-sional world.

The UUFS Student Advi-sory Committee continued to play an important role throughout the year.

Key accomplishments included:

• Identification of a sustain-

ability “hit list” for the operations.

• Determination of im-portant elements to be incorporated into the expansion of the Michi-gan Union U-go’s.

• Secret shopper exercises to improve customer ser-vice and quality of food offerings.

• Testing of reusable water bottles to be offered in the expanded U-go’s at the new purified water refill station.

University Catering contin-ued to build on its branding as one combined entity. To this end, a new website was launched in March, 2009 which features an easy to use navigation system for planning an event and ordering food in all of the Union buildings as well as off-premise, beautiful pho-tography, up-to-date and downloadable food menus, chef recipes, staff informa-tion, event testimonials, and more.

University Catering was proud to be involved with the Griese/Hutchinson Champions for Children’s Hearts Golf Tournament at Crisler Arena held May 16, 2009. The event featured a 500 person plated dinner and successfully raised over $600,000 for The Mott Children’s Hospital surgery unit.

Photo used with permission from General Mills Foodservice

13

University Unions Event

Services is the department that

oversees all of the meetings,

events and special occasions that

take place in the three Union

buildings. This past year was

very active for Event Services

with a wide variety of election,

student organization, weddings

and University events taking

place. In addition, the Event

Services department introduced

some new meeting planning

aids and communication tools.

14

Event Services

Event highlights for the 2008/2009 year included:

Students for Ron Paul and the Progressive Alliance student organization hosted political events in the Michigan Union in October.

The Michigan League was honored to be selected as the host site for the 16th annual Save-A-Heart cel-ebration, held in November in support of the University of Michigan Congenital Heart Center at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. The Save-a-Heart program helps patients and their families by raising funds for travel and lodging.

Governor Jennifer Gran-holm spoke at the Michigan League in March as part of the Erb Institute/Climate Group.

In addition, Event Ser-vices introduced several enhancements to opera-tions which included:

Debut of the electronic ver-sion of the Event Services/University Catering news-letter, “The Dish,” which features helpful tips, chef recipes, department news and other useful informa-tion about event planning and catering services.

Implementing an auto-no-tification system to prompt clients for additional food details and final counts for events. This system has proved very helpful to clients and staff.

Launching of the “Some-thing Blue” marketing campaign to promote wed-dings which includes ads to U-M alumni, a large photo display board, wedding package suggestions, and a mailer which was honored with a “Steal This Idea” award at the annual As-sociation of College Unions International (ACUI) con-ference this year.

Installment of a new online ordering system on the new University Catering website for a fast way to place food orders.

The Michigan State Legislature held a hearing for the funding of higher education in May in the Michigan League where the three presidents of the institutions in Michigan’s University Research Cor-ridor, including Mary Sue Coleman, testified.

Many cultural events took place in the University Unions including the recep-tion for the opening of the African Studies Center at the Michigan League, a Diwali celebration, and the African Culture Show in the Michigan Union Ballroom.

15

Something Blue

Weddings at Michigan

Eve

nt S

ervi

ces

Uni

vers

ity

of M

ichi

gan

530

S. S

tate

St.,

Rm

. 131

0A

nn A

rbor

, MI

4810

9-13

08

Something Old,

Something New,

Something Borrowed,

186188.indd 1 4/9/08 5:42:53 PM

Photo by Ariel Bond/Michigan Daily

Arts and Programs

16

University Unions Arts and Programs

(UUAP) is dedicated to developing stu-

dents’ experiences outside of the class-

room. Through hundreds of art, recre-

ation and performance programs and

events, UUAP provides a wide range of

fun experiences with which students can

become involved as planners, partici-

pants or spectators.

UUAP not only manages student programming in the Michigan Union, Michigan League and Pierpont Commons, it oversees the following student support services:

• The Michigan Union Bil-liards and Games Room including the Xbox and Wii gaming stations.

• The Student Theatre Arts Complex (STAC) which helps theatre groups with rehearsal facilities, tech-nical support and produc-tion tools and materials.

• The Student Organization Resource Center (SORC) which provides advertis-ing services across cam-pus for student organiza-tions and provides balloon decorations for events and personal gift giving.

• Dance/Party advising for groups that want larger events or events at larger venues such as Hill Au-ditorium or Mendelssohn Theatre.

UUAP experienced a very active and success-ful 2008/2009 year with the following shining moments:

In July, 2008 the Michi-gan Shakespeare Festival (MSF) used the Student Theatre Arts Complex (STAC) for a collabora-tive performance of “The Mikado” with the Gilbert & Sullivan Society of U-M. This was the first time the MSF worked with STAC.

In April, 2009, UUAP brought the popular rap artist, Common, to the Power Center through a partnership between UUAP/New Beat Happen-ing and UAC/Big Ticket Productions.

The first complete year for the new video gam-ing space in the Michigan Union Billiards and Games Room was successful as a programming venue. Over two dozen tournaments were held in the space and an online gaming commu-nity for college students is in its formative stages.

The University of Michi-gan Team Pool Champi-onship fielded schools from 6 states, plus On-tario, Canada, making it the grandest intercollegiate pool tournament in the U.S. Other universities are hold-ing tournaments modeled after this one.

UMix reached a milestone by hosting over 10,000 students and guests during the 2008-2009 academic year. After three years, this program continues to cultivate student interest and meets a campus need for alternative late-night programming on campus.

UUAP incorporated new technologies into their mar-keting efforts including You Tube, Twitter, Facebook, Podcasts and iTunesU.

The number of balloon/snack bag deliveries, a joint service provided by Stu-dent Organization Resource Center (SORC) and U-go’s, increased by 23% this past year. This delivery service was established in 2006 as a means of providing par-ents with a gift from afar to recognize their children with birthday, get well or good luck wishes.

17

UUAP’s Program Coun-cil, a formal organiza-tion made up of student leaders, undergradu-ate program assistants and graduate interns, continued to solidify its organizational structure and build on its student development efforts. Highlights from the past year for the Council included:

Eighteen UUAP undergrad-uate program assistants completed a trial year of a performance assessment process based on eight learning outcomes. This successful initiative is an intentional effort to gather data on what the students are learning in their jobs and how effectively the professional staff is teach-ing them. It is also an op-portunity for the students to explore their strengths/areas of improvement and analyze their co-curricular learning. Initial aggregate

data indicates improve-ment within each outcome throughout the course of the academic year.

Advised by a Program Advi-sor, the students planned and implemented peer-to-peer training workshops for Program Council. The workshops included topics about identity, leadership, community building, bud-get and time management. Additionally, all Program Council members had the opportunity to participate in a low ropes training course led by Univer-sity Unions Director John Taylor.

The Program Council Leadership team created Program Council Awards to recognize outstanding achievements and included Best Partnership, Most Involved Committee, Most Creative Marketing, Dream It (Best New Program) and Golden FISH awards.

A major goal for UUAP has been to increase collaborations with stu-dent organizations and university departments across campus. Several innovative partnerships occurred in 2008/2009:

The Langston Hughes Project – Center for Afro-American & African Stud-ies, Department of Jazz & Contemporary Improvisa-tion, Office of Multi-Ethnic Student Affairs.

Women’s Forum – Suellyn Scarnecchia, Vice Presi-dent and General Counsel; Cynthia Wilbanks, VP for Government Relations; Deborah Ball, Dean of School of Education; Mon-ica Ponce de Leon, Dean of the Taubman College of Architecture and Litera-ture; Danielle Abrams, As-sistant Professor of Art and Design; Terri Torkko, Event Coordinator in the Institute for Research on Women and Gender.

Presidential Election programming – Ginsberg Center, Trotter Multi-cultural Center, College Republicans and College Democrats.

A Common Voice – Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center

Ramadan Exhibit in Michigan Union – Muslim Students’ Association.

Educational films – Student Health Advisory Council, Shalom Alaykum, Malay-sian Students’ Association, African Development and Human Security Project, Spectrum Center.

Go Blue Week “The Great-est Rivalry Ever” – Michi-gan Student Assembly, Alpha Phi Omega, Circle K.

Finals Survival Break-fast – Campus VIPs that volunteered as servers included U-M President Mary Sue Coleman, Teresa Sullivan, Provost, Professor Ralph Williams, E. Royster Harper, Vice President Student Affairs, and U-M Head Football Coach Rich Rodriguez.

Marketing & Graphics

The “How To” image campaign for University Unions con-

tinued for a second year in 2008/2009. In addition to a new

series of posters, flyers, table tents, bus signs, print ads and

diag boards, a second student handbook was created and dis-

tributed around campus that provided detailed information

on services and resources found in the Unions. In addition,

decks of playing cards featuring “52 tips” in the theme of the

campaign were handed out all over campus and proved to be a

popular promotional item. A student survey conducted in the

fall of 2008 showed that a strong 88% of students were aware of

the campaign with an approval rating of 82%.

A new Marketing Stu-dent Advisory Com-mittee was formed in September, 2008 whose purpose was to:

• Evaluate the current Uni-versity Unions marketing campaign.

• Discuss ways to improve communications about UU to students.

• Consolidate feedback from other students re-garding marketing UU.

• Discuss new ideas for marketing UU.

• Have input on the new creative campaign for 2009/2010.

The committee successfully determined the campaign theme to be developed for the next academic year as well as helped guide specif-ic messages to be used. All non-graduating committee members will be return-ing to continue developing marketing materials under the new campaign theme.

18

UNIVERSITY UNIONSYour “How-to” Companion

how toAvoid PARENTAL DISAPPOINTMENT

Tip No.

9

www.umich.edu/~uunionsDivision of Student Affairs

Dec 9 10 11 15

Use ourStudy Lounge

sMake your

parents proud.Study DestinationsCafés – Amer’s, Commons Café, Beanster’s (2 locations), Bert’s Café, Mujo Café

Comfy Chairs – Pierpont Piano Lounge, Michigan League, Michigan Union Hallways and Opera Lounge

Designated Quiet – Michigan Union Quiet Study Room, Several Michigan League meeting rooms

Late Nights at the LeagueLook for specials at U-go’s, Beanster’s Wendy’s & Taco Bell Express.

Open until 1:00am.

In April, 2009 a new University Unions web-site was launched. The site was created using a thorough development process involving a web-site task force, Universi-ty Unions Marketing and the Technology Services unit of the Division of Student Affairs. Fea-tures of the new website include:

• A new, fresh, friendly look.

• A new staff directory for more efficient contact.

• More pictures to bring the Unions to life.

• Rotating home page Spot-lights to provide a snap shot of our departments, vendors and student orga-nizations in a prominent place.

• Improved navigation in-cluding “breadcrumbs” to help you know where you are within the site.

• Accessibility.

• Interactive Floorplans to help find eateries and meeting rooms.

• Frequently updated news items to keep the content fresh and provide a rea-son for viewers to keep checking the site.

• A new emergency pre-paredness section.

All of the graphics for Uni-versity Unions marketing materials are developed by the UU Graphic Design Of-fice. The office is comprised of U of M School of Art and Design students who can put the student spin on the communications. The art students gain valuable experience while earning pay and academic credit, and UU gains well-designed promotional materials.

19

Maintenance

While many of the projects that the Main-

tenance department is involved with re-

volve around the necessary repairing and

replacing of equipment and furnishings

in the facilities, some larger scale projects

are spearheaded that have broader and

longer lasting results. In line with the

sustainability efforts mentioned earlier,

one larger project involved the implemen-

tation of compact fluorescent light bulbs

(CFL).

20

For many years, the Maintenance department has studied and tested several CFLs to determine how the Unions can save lighting energy output and dollars. Finding the correct bulb was challenging due to the age of the buildings and the electrical distribu-tion systems. Maintenance found CFLs that produce the desired light output but whose lifespan was shortened dramatically due to voltage fluctuations in the buildings. Finally a bulb was found and tested which provided both the desired light output and would withstand the inconsistent voltage. Pres-ently all of the bulbs in the Tap Room in the Michigan Union have been converted to the new bulb. As a result of the lower electrical con-sumption, it is estimated that CO2 emissions have been reduced by 66,000 pounds. The bulb switch out program will continue throughout the summer of 2009 to include all of the ground floor.

The original slate roof over the Michigan Union ballroom was replaced in the fall. The project was a major undertaking requir-ing extensive coordination with event scheduling and the minimizing of impact on adjoining buildings. Much of the old slate was re-cycled as it was pulled from the dumpster as quickly as it was removed from the building to be used on nu-merous individual projects ranging from ponds to patio decks. Also included in the project was the removal of all the limestone capping pieces so new waterproof-ing membrane and copper underlayment could be installed.

Additional improve-ments completed this year include:

• The installation of a circulating pump with a pressure switch in the Inn to help stabilize the availability of hot water (League).

• New carpet in the Koessler Room (League), Crofoot and Sophia B. Jones Rooms (Union) and East Room (Pierpont).

• Repainting rooms includ-ing Room 6 and several in the Inn (League).

21

Financial Overview

22

As an auxiliary unit, Univer-sity Unions continuously looks for ways to balance the stewardship and re-sponsibility of its resources with the desire to improve services and amenities for students and the campus community.

During FY09, University Unions realized cost sav-ings through the use of the prime vendor program instituted on campus. Projects were accomplished through the life cycle and capital purchasing pro-gram such as new chairs for the U-Club, carpet and draperies in a variety of our meeting rooms, and china for our catered events. Combined purchases across units have resulted in quantity discounts and additional resources are continuously being sought for quality and price com-parison.

Financial Services

The Student Organization Account Services offices (SOAS) further enhanced the software program implemented last year and were able to offer students additional on-line services. Educational sessions were held and feedback was gathered on the current applications and improve-ments the students would be most interested in see-ing take place.

23

38.5

%

12.0%

31.9%

4.3% 3.8%

9.5%

Lease

RevenueFood

Other University Support

Rental

Hotel

59.3%

13%

8.8%

10.6

%

6.8%

1.5%

Expenses

General

Utilities

Other

University Charges

Salaries & Bene�ts

Contribution to Reserves

Other Expense Includes:Telephones, Publicity/Promo, Small Equipment, Insurance, Service of Others

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

Self-Operated Services

There are seven eateries that University Unions self-operates. They

include Beanster’s with locations in the Michigan League and Pier-

pont Commons, Bert’s Café in the Shapiro Undergraduate Library,

Bonici Brothers Pizza within U-go’s and Commons Café at Pierpont,

Mujo Café within the Duderstadt Center and The University Club

restaurant in the Michigan Union. These, plus three U-go’s conve-

nience stores, the Michigan Union Ticket Office and the Michigan

Union Billiards & Games Room help supplement the offerings of the

retail and food business partners to meet the needs of the students.

All University Unions eateries accept Blue Bucks, the U-M meal

debit card.

Beanster's

Bert's Café

Bonici Brothers

Commons Café

Michigan Union Ticket Office

Michigan Union Billiards & Games Room

Mujo Café

U-go's

U-go's Express

University Club

24

Business Partners

Sponsorships

University Unions Graphic Design Office and Apple Computer, Inc. are in their 23rd year of a very successful partnership. Apple provides the office’s computer work stations and IT administration. The graphic design office provides Apple’s higher ed campaign for the U of M campus, sometimes extend-ing these campaigns to other universities.

25

Partnerships

Several new business part-ners joined the collection at University Unions that help provide high quality retail and food offerings to the campus community, includ-ing Taco Bell Express and Pizza Hut Express. In ad-dition, Panda Express and UM Computer Showcase added second locations in other Union buildings providing even more con-venience.

Amer's

Barnes & Noble

UM Computer Showcase

Freshens

Mrs. Fields

Panda Express

Pizza Hut Express

Quiznos

STA Travel

Subway

Sushi by Panda

UM Credit Union

Taco Bell Express

Wendy's

26

27

University UnionsLeadership Staff

John TaylorDirector

Kay BallAssociate Director

Bob YeckeAssistant Director

Dave KautzMaintenance Director

Barb NiemiEvent Services Director

Susan PileMichigan Union DirectorArts & Programs Director

Audrey SchwimmerMichigan League Director

Keith SosterFood Services Director

Michael SwaniganPierpont Commons Director

Jen McGowanCampus Information Centers Director

David DisneyPalmer Commons General Manager

28

Credits The Regentsof the University of Michigan

Nondiscrimination Policy

29

Project DirectorLaura Seagram

Graphic Design and Art DirectionKatie Horne, BFA '10

Editing Kay BallLaura SeagramJohn Taylor

Contributing WritersKay BallLisa BartlettDave KautzBarb NiemiSusan PileAudrey SchwimmerLaura SeagramKeith SosterMichael SwaniganJohn Taylor

PhotographyAngela CesereJessica EashLisa GentileCaitlin HohnLaura Seagram University Unions Staff Said Alsalah, Michigan DailyAriel Bond, Michigan DailyUniversity of Michigan Photo Services

Julia Donovan Darlow Ann Arbor

Laurence B. Deitch Bingham Farms

Denise IlitchBingham 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

The University of Michigan, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all appli-cable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimina-tion 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 CoordinatorOffice of Institutional Equity2072 Administrative Services BuildingAnn Arbor, Michigan 48109-1432734-763-0235TTY 734-647-1388.

University Unions Administration Offices3405 Michigan Union530 South State StreetAnn Arbor, MI 48109-1308

734.936.0869734.647.1483(fax)uunions.umich.edu