Build your skills, boost your confidence, and grow your career — one playlist at a time. 

Whether you’re looking to become a stronger leader, communicate more effectively, or better manage your time, MyPath offers learning playlists to guide your growth. Each one pulls together high-quality content you can access anytime.

Playlists make learning approachable and practical. Each one is organized around a theme — like leadership, productivity, or innovation — so you can focus on what matters most to your development. 

You can complete lessons between meetings or even during your morning coffee. The goal is simple: to make learning part of your day, not another item on your to-do list. 

Content is organized by topic, personalized picks, and trending courses by job role. Education fits every type of learner with options for classroom sessions, videos, materials, and online courses. You can launch now or save for later. 

Each month, the Office of Learning and Development spotlights educational content aligned with the University’s Meliora values on topics ranging from neurodiversity to emotional intelligence. These are available by searching “Learnnow” in MyPath. 

Every playlist is designed to help you build real-world skills that strengthen your performance today and prepare you for opportunities ahead. Find a complete list of playlists in MyPath under My Learning tab – Professional Development Playlists and Leadership Development Playlists. 

MyPath’s Learner Home, offered under the main MyPath drop down menu, provides a personalized workplace for your unique learning journey. Similar to your Netflix home, Learner Home provides a summary of completed training and suggestions for future learning content, based on your previous history.   

Karen’s Top Playlist Picks

By Karen Scott, Director of Learning and Development 

• Time Management: Big Skills for Busy Schedules
  In today’s fast-paced world, mastering the art of time management is crucial for success in both personal and professional realms. Whether you’re navigating a demanding career or simply seeking balance in your daily life, this content provides invaluable insights to help you make the most of your precious time.  
• Level-up with AI
  Discover how to use artificial intelligence tools to work smarter, boost creativity, and save time. Learn practical ways to apply AI in your daily work — from writing and brainstorming to analyzing data and organizing projects. Search “Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI)” in MyPath. 
• Ready to Lead in 2026? Here’s Where to Start
  Interested in stepping into leadership or growing as a manager? The “Team Building for Leaders” playlist teaches you how to develop and maintain a work environment with clear expectations set through effective communication, role modeling, and positive reinforcement. 

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We found inspiration for our own New Year’s goals in Stephanie Von Bacho, EdD, MSEd, MS, RN, NEA-BC, Senior Director of Learning and Development, who has spent 37 years at the University of Rochester and proudly calls herself a lifelong learner. 

Recently inducted into the Monroe Community College Alumni Hall of Fame, Stephanie holds multiple degrees in nursing and education and founded the organization now known as Camp Courage, a summer program for children who have experienced burn injuries. Her dedication to learning and helping others inspires us all to pursue growth in the year ahead. 

You’ve spent 37 years at the University of Rochester—what has motivated you to keep learning and growing throughout your career? Did you envision your current career when you began as a nurse in the burn trauma unit? 

When I started my career as a new graduate registered nurse from Monroe Community College, I specifically sought a position at the University so I could further my formal education. Little did I know at the time how many opportunities would evolve from that single decision over the years. One thing about learning something new and making connections is that you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your abilities, and your passions. I never envisioned my current career when I began as a new nurse so many years ago. The people I have worked with have inspired me throughout my career path, as have both formal and informal learning experiences. I have built my career at the University of Rochester because it offers numerous development opportunities and ample career mobility, allowing me to apply new skills, continue learning, and challenge myself.  

What University resources or programs have helped you grow personally and professionally—and which ones do you encourage employees to take advantage of to build their own skills and advance their careers? 

I have utilized the University’s tuition benefits multiple times to ease the financial burden of expanding my education. Tuition waivers are available for courses taken at the University of Rochester, as well as for courses taken at other colleges and universities. 

The University now offers a great opportunity for employees seeking higher earning potential and career development in high-demand positions with upfront tuition payments and release time through the UR Career Pathways Program. 

I also highly recommend employees take advantage of our self-led career navigation that is designed to help you find your career pathway by offering tools to align your skills with your interests by completing self-assessments. You’ve got to know where you’re going before you can figure out how to get there. 

What advice would you give employees who want to set meaningful career or personal growth goals for the new year? 

A wonderful time to reflect on the last year of work and look forward to the next is during the performance evaluation process in February and March. Built into the process is the opportunity to discuss your professional growth with your manager and set goals that will not only fulfil your key job responsibilities, but push you to identify specific areas where you want to learn, improve, or expand your impact in the year ahead. It could involve building new skills, strengthening leadership abilities, pursuing education or certification, or taking on new challenges that stretch your capabilities. 

The most effective goals are intentional and actionable—they align with your career aspirations and the organization’s needs, while also fueling your personal motivation. Think of it like creating a roadmap for your own development: where you are now, where you want to go, and what steps will help you get there. 

How has the culture of learning and development evolved at URochester during your time here, and what excites you about its future? 

I think some of the biggest evolutions in the recent L&D space have been the addition of online learning at your fingertips with MyPath, our learning management system. It allows employees to take control of their growth both personally and professionally.  

The job catalog, which was created as a result of the CPM (Career Path Modernization) project opens up a whole new resource for growing your career and allows you to see opportunities available for you and what experience and education is required.  

The program that makes me most excited for the future is the UR Career Pathways Program, which focuses on creating and supporting career pathways for entry-level employees into high-demand positions. Through this work, we have fostered numerous community outreach relationships and resulted in the development of new educational programs to support the need for high-demand positions in healthcare. It is creating pipelines and pathways for current and future employees alike. 

You’ve earned multiple degrees and continued your education throughout your career. What advice would you give to employees who are thinking about going back to school or pursuing professional development? 

Lifelong learning isn’t just about gaining knowledge—it’s about opening doors. When you pursue further education, you’re investing in your future, your confidence, and the opportunities you haven’t met yet. Your ideal career path may not be a ladder—it may be a winding road that still brings you to your goals and gives you a richer, more fulfilling experience along the way. 

The post A conversation with Stephanie Von Bacho: Time to grow, thrive, and reach your goals appeared first on Office of Human Resources.

What we learned

Across the University as a whole, we saw clear strengths in:

• Respectful, trusting relationships with managers and team
• Clarity of expectations and access to training to perform effectively in the workplace
• Access to wellness initiatives and benefits that promote well-being
• A strong sense of purpose: commitment to students, patients, and our community

The survey also pointed to areas where we can improve. Faculty and staff told us they want to see improvements in:

• Balancing workloads and accountability
• Leadership alignment and clearer communication at all levels
• Greater transparency during periods of change
• More clarity on pay practices and how compensation is set
• Improvements related to area specific operational practices and policies

Top themes that emerged

• Leadership, Strategy & Communication: strengthen trust and alignment around our mission, vision, and goals.
• Manager Tools, Support and Education: better equip managers to lead and communicate with confidence, consistency and transparency.
• Culture of Safety: Better understand area specific safety concerns and identify ways to best support employee safety.
• Collaboration, Feedback & Belonging: foster belonging and stronger connections through cross-team collaboration and open feedback opportunities.
• Action in response to the survey: Ensure meaningful follow-up will occur as a result of the survey.

What happens next

Beginning in February, we will share more details about the results and the steps we will take to address them:

• Transparent Communication: We’ll share overall results and dashboards beginning in February of 2026.
• Manager Training: Over 60 sessions have been scheduled from December through February to help leaders interpret results, collaborate with their teams, and create action plans in response to your feedback.
• Action Planning: This will occur at the organizational, school, and unit level. In the schools, each Dean will work with leaders within their school to create a framework for their school for reviewing results and action planning with both faculty and staff. In Central Administration, the Medical Center and in other units such as the Library, Admissions, MAG, and LLE, to name a few, unit and department leaders will collaborate with their leadership teams to deliver results and action plan to make improvements specific to employee feedback in their areas.

At the organizational level, we will begin working to address opportunities that span the entire University or that impact larger groups of employees across units, departments and schools.  We will gather feedback on proposed action plans by topic through various forums and employee meetings from February – April, followed by formal plans communicated to the University community, which includes our schools, central administration, LLE, MAG, and URMC.

Our commitment

Your feedback is important to us. It helps us understand where we are strong and where we need to improve to support a more welcoming, connected, and positive employee experience. This will take all of our collective efforts. We must collaborate to develop and implement the plans we need to affect progress. We are committed to the process and hope we can also count on your participation and support.

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A new year is the perfect time to revisit your benefits and ensure you’re taking full advantage of all that is offered to eligible URochester employees. Learn more about where to find potential savings as well as eligibility criteria.

1) Increased Well-U incentives for eligible health plan participants – Earn up to $900 for engaging in programs focused on improving health*

URochester has increased its wellness incentive offerings this year by up to 38%, making it easier for employees to earn incentive dollars while engaging in ways to improve their health.

If you’re enrolled in a University health plan for 2026, here’s some good news: you and your covered spouse or domestic partner can EACH earn up to $450 this year just by participating in Well-U programs. Yes, you can get paid for taking steps toward better health. Talk about a win-win!

Three simple ways to earn UP TO $450*

• Access Your Personal Health Assessment — $150
  Complete survey 1 of your Personal Health Assessment online, then finish survey 2 and your biometric screening to earn your first $150.
• Level Up with a Lifestyle Management Program — $150
  Complete an eligible lifestyle management program to earn another $150.
• Get Support Through Condition Management Coaching — $150
  Complete an eligible condition management coaching program to earn yet another $150.

*All incentives are treated as taxable wages.

2) HSA: A ‘triple’ tax saving benefit for those enrolled in an HSA Health Plan

Did you enroll in the HSA plan for 2026? Don’t miss the chance to contribute to a Health Savings Account (HSA). It’s one of the few benefits that offers a triple tax advantage: your contributions go in tax-free, they grow tax-free, and you can spend them tax-free on qualified expenses throughout your lifetime.  

3) Save $$$ on pet sitting

Planning a trip this year and looking for pet care? Through your free Care.com membership*, you get 10 days of backup care each year—including pet sitting for just $10 per day. To enroll in the free Care.com membership, please visit Care.com.

*Care.com memberships are available to regular full-time and part-time faculty and staff, residents, and postdoctoral associates. Staff represented by a collective bargaining agreement receive benefits accordingly. The value of pet care is treated as taxable wages.

4) Compare your current auto and home insurance rates with exclusive savings offered through special rates provided to URochester employees:

Looking for a potential way to cut your monthly costs? You’ve got access to special auto and home insurance discounts. URochester partners with Farmers Group Select, Liberty Mutual, and Travelers to offer exclusive savings just for our employees. Get a quick quote to compare rates here.

5) Don’t miss everyday discounts

Whether it’s $4 off movie tickets, discounted admission to Amerks games for a fun winter weekend, or big savings on lift tickets at ski resorts across the country, there are always ways to save as a URochester employee. Visit our exclusive discounts webpage here.

To make it easier, we’re launching a brand-new Seasonal Savings section in every issue of HR Connect so you never miss a seasonal deal. 

The post Your 2026 reset: Five ways to save more with URochester benefits appeared first on Office of Human Resources.

2026 Performance Evaluation Schedule

• Staff self-reviews: Sunday, February 1–Sunday, March 8
• Manager reviews: Monday, March 9–Saturday, April 25
• Employee Acknowledgement due Tuesday, June 30

To assist you with preparing for performance evaluations, the following resources are available in MyPath by searching “pr2026”:

Performance Management Series for Managers 2026

• Performance Management: Creating Accountability and Setting Expectations (instructor-led)
• Performance Management: Giving Effective Feedback (instructor-led)
• Performance Management: Creating and Managing Performance Goals (instructor-led)
• Performance Management: Conducting the Performance Review (eLearning)
• NEW: Performance Management: Performance Reviews Overview for Managers 2026 (eLearning)

Performance Reviews for Employees 2026

• Creating SMART Performance Goals (eLearning)
• Writing Your Self-Review (eLearning)

*New for 2026*: Guidelines for Use of AI in Performance Reviews

Learn more at our “Using AI in Performance Reviews” Lunch & Learn. Register for upcoming sessions by searching the title in MyPath.

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Comfort in every draw—Meet members of our phlebotomist team

Kalissa Marks

Phlebotomist  
Phlebotomy Department 

How long have you been a phlebotomist, and what led you to this career?

I have been a phlebotomist at URMC for almost two years. I was drawn to this career because I enjoy working with patients and wanted to be part of the healthcare field in a hands-on role. Phlebotomy allows me to make a meaningful impact during each patient interaction, often during moments when an individual may feel anxious or scared. Being able to provide comfort while contributing to their overall healthcare experience is what initially inspired me to pursue this role and continues to motivate me every day. 

What is one thing people might be surprised to learn about your role?

Phlebotomy provides a lot of variety. In addition to drawing blood, we perform EKGs, assist with patient specimen drop-offs, and offer road tech services to patients in our nursing homes as well as patient homes.  

What does a typical day look like for you?

My day begins with opening the lab and ensuring everything is clean, organized, and ready for patients. I check in patients and draw blood throughout the day, relying on the guidance of our senior technicians and collaborating closely with my coworkers to ensure everything runs smoothly. Being able to support patients and working alongside such a skilled team makes every day meaningful. 

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I enjoy participating in the computer training class for new hires. We teach them how to register mock patients for blood work, including verifying information, understanding insurance, and reading and interpreting paper lab work orders. Seeing new team members gain confidence with their computer skills is incredibly rewarding. The class adds both a leadership and educational component to my day that I really enjoy.  

How do you help patients feel comfortable during blood draws, especially those who are nervous or afraid of needles?

I take the time to explain the process, answer questions, and reassure them so they know what to expect. Using a calm and friendly approach, I work at a pace that makes patients feel safe and supported, which helps reduce anxiety and makes the experience as smooth as possible. When working with younger patients, I explain what I’m doing in an age-appropriate manner and use a reassuring tone to help both the child and their family feel at ease. When necessary, I’ll have a coworker gently hold the child’s arm to make the procedure safer and less stressful. 

How has UR supported your healthcare journey, or how would you describe the support provided by leadership and your coworkers at URMC?

The University has offered incredible support throughout my career here. I started in 2022 as a food and nutrition worker, and through the Career Pathways program, I was able to transfer into phlebotomy. Most recently, I was accepted into LPN school, and Career Pathways is covering my tuition and clinical costs, making it possible for me to pursue my long-term goals in healthcare. 

Debra McGurn 

Phlebotomy Operations Coordinator 
Phlebotomy Department 

How long have you been a phlebotomist, and what led you to this career?

I began my 14th year in January. It was recommended that I pursue a career in phlebotomy because I have a son with hemophilia, and I was already familiar with finding veins in his arms to give him infusions as part of his care.  

What does a typical day look like for you? 

A typical day in phlebotomy is a mix of patient interaction and lab work. We begin early in the day by preparing supplies and drawing blood from diverse patients (newborns to the elderly), which involves patient comfort to ensure they handle the draw well. Additionally, we complete PRECISE labeling and correct sample processing for sending specimens to the lab for results. We do this all while maintaining strict hygiene. Sometimes we speak with doctors’ offices about lab orders and tests to further help our patients. 

What skills do you think are most important for this role? 

It’s essential that the phlebotomist has compassion and is caring and understanding to make the patient feel as comfortable as possible. Being a team player is important for effective collaboration with other staff members in delivering patient care. Phlebotomists must be detail-oriented, starting with correct patient identification to ensure they draw the correct vials of blood for tests ordered and for specimen preparation for those vials.  

What does compassionate care mean to you? 

I believe in kindness and a friendly smile—they go a long way with the patients, which starts at the front desk during check-in. Blood draws can be very stressful and scary. Making patients feel more comfortable and easing their anxiety during blood draws are important. Sometimes, striking up an appropriate conversation and showing empathy and professionalism during the blood draw procedure makes all the difference. Listening to your patient’s wishes also gets them through the process. The most rewarding part of my job is being a crucial link in helping a patient find a diagnosis and treatment for their health. 

How would you describe the culture in your department? 

The phlebotomy culture focuses on patients, and involves a lot of teamwork and precision to follow strict protocols for proper specimen collection and preparation. Labs provide a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment that requires good communication and technical skills to prevent errors. 

What advice would you give someone interested in becoming a phlebotomist?

If you are someone who enjoys helping others, has empathy and compassion, attention to detail, is dependable, and is looking for professional growth, phlebotomy may be a good fit. Individuals interested in pursuing a phlebotomy career at URMC, with no prior training, can apply to attend the Phlebotomy Training Program at URMC. A Certificate of Completion is presented at the conclusion of the program. 

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A steady guide, navigating care with kindness—Meet a member of our nurse navigator team

Kimberly (Kim) Barrett

Lead GI Procedure Nurse Navigator
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Outpatient

What inspired you to become a nurse and eventually a nurse navigator?

At the age of 14, I started working in a retirement home, where I was initially assigned to the kitchen. By the time I was 16, I had begun assisting residents with their daily needs. Connecting with and supporting the residents inspired me to pursue a career in nursing, igniting a passion for caring for others that guides me to this day.

How do you support patients and families through their care journey?

I coordinate care for patients undergoing diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal (GI) procedures that require anesthesia or moderate sedation, such as colonoscopies, endoscopies, endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and endoscopic ultrasound (EUS). My primary focus is collaborating with our advanced practice providers and supporting patients.

In this role, I provide comprehensive patient education related to procedure preparation, medication management, and post-procedure recovery expectations. Many of the patients I support have medically complex situations, and I work collaboratively with the interdisciplinary care team to ensure they are medically optimized and scheduled in the most appropriate care setting to safely proceed with their procedure.

What part of your role makes you most proud?

Knowing that I’ve made a direct impact on patient care is very meaningful to me. My goal is always to ensure patients feel informed, supported, and confident as they move forward with their procedure. By providing education, reassurance, and guidance, I’m able to help reduce anxiety and help patients feel more comfortable throughout their care experience.

What does a typical day look like for you?

My role involves a significant amount of multitasking. I review patient charts for those not yet scheduled to ensure they are medically appropriate and prepared for their upcoming procedures. I also work collaboratively with the Center for Perioperative Care to support patients who are already scheduled but may have new or ongoing health concerns that could impact anesthesia or procedure safety. In addition to this, I answer patient phone calls, provide education and reassurance, and assist team members as needed to support a smooth coordination of care.

What skills are most important in your role?

Flexibility, patience, strong multitasking skills, and a team-centered approach.

What does the career path entail for becoming a nurse navigator?

Registered Nurse (Bachelor’s degree) with a minimum of three (3) years of experience is required. Experience in Gastroenterology (GI) is strongly preferred but not required.

What advice would you give someone considering this role?

It’s a great role with a lot of autonomy, which allows you to take ownership of your work and make a real impact. The schedule is generally flexible, making it easier to balance work with other commitments. Overall, it’s rewarding for those who enjoy supporting patients, collaborating with a team, and managing multiple tasks independently.

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Behind the microscope—Meet a member of our histology technician team

Jason Toland

Histotechnician
URMC Surgical Pathology

What drew you to a career in histology?

I have always had a fascination with microscopy since a child. Prior to becoming a histology technician, I was a nurse for 20 years. As a nurse, I saw how important it was for biopsies to be processed efficiently so that physicians could quickly diagnose patients. Histology is a perfect fit for someone interested in science and helping patients receive the best care possible, which aligns with my career goals.

What does a typical day entail for you in the lab as a histology technician (histotechnician or histotech)?

First, in the morning, all rush specimens are removed from the tissue processors, embedded in paraffin wax molds, sectioned in microtomy (the process of cutting specimens), and placed on slides. Then, we put the slides on our stainer, which stains the tissue with hematoxylin and eosin (types of dye). These stain different parts of the cells, allowing pathologists to make a diagnosis. Additional slides may be cut and stained with advanced tests to detect specific antibodies and other abnormalities in the tissue.

What part of the histology process do you find most fascinating?

I am fascinated by the different types of stains we can use to highlight specific parts of tissue. We have hundreds of different stains that pathologists use to narrow down possible diagnoses.

How does your work in the lab make a difference for patients or what is the most rewarding part of your job?

Every biopsy needs a histotech to process the tissue into a slide that can be read by the pathologist. Without efficient and accurate histology processing of tissue, physicians would not be able to diagnose many conditions. I have seen firsthand the importance of this process for patients. A few years ago, my wife was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer. She had multiple biopsies, which were processed through histology. Information gathered from the multiple biopsies has helped physicians determine the appropriate treatment for her disease.

What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about what you do?

We cut tissue to a thickness as small as 2 microns, which is 25 times thinner than a human hair.

If you had to describe your work in three words, what words would you choose?

Rewarding, challenging, and detailed.

What is the lab culture?

We all work well as a team to ensure every specimen is processed efficiently and accurately. There is always someone willing to help answer any questions. We all understand the importance of what we do and how this work affects patient outcomes.

What advice would you give to someone starting out in this field and what skills are important?

There is a lot to learn in histology, which can be overwhelming at first and can easily lead to discouragement. But don’t give up. Cutting tissue at 2-4 microns is a highly technical skill that takes many hours of practice to master.

How would you describe the support provided by leadership and your coworkers at URMC?

The leadership is excellent in our lab. Each week we have a huddle to discuss how things are going in the lab. We discuss ways to improve efficiency and how to fix any issues that may arise. Leadership listens to suggestions we have to improve things throughout the lab. We also hold monthly group meetings and one-on-one meetings to discuss topics in more detail. We all help each other and work well as a team. I truly enjoy working in this lab.

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