Loyola Orientation & Onboarding Program (LOOP) 201: Partners in Mission

Institution Name: Loyola University Chicago

Program Contact Name: Lauren Schwer

Program Contact Email: lschwer@luc.edu

Program Contact Phone Number: (773) 508-7431

Short Program Description:

In collaboration with the Department of Human Resources, Loyola University Chicago’s Mission Integration Division convenes the “Loyola Orientation & Onboarding Program 201: Partners in Mission” for new staff. The orientation acquaints or reacquaints new Loyola community members with the history and goals of Jesuit higher education, thus enabling them to appreciate and incorporate the University’s mission into their role.

Program Goals/Intended Outcomes:

1. Build cross-campus and department community among new staff.
2. Clearly communicate the primacy and relevance of Loyola’s mission.
3. Provide space for new staff to see themselves as mission animators.

Loyola Orientation & Onboarding Program (LOOP) 201: Partners in Mission Website

How long does it take to complete the program?: Half Day

Total Program Length: 3.5 hours

Key University/Other Partners: Human Resources

Funding Source(s): Operating budget

Stipends Paid or Other Participant Benefits: Release Time

Lessons Learned:

1. It is key for the experience to be interactive.
2. Assessments always identify a panel incorporating voices from around the University as a highlight.
3. People enter this required program with skepticism; by the end, a significant percentage note how much they enjoyed it.

Assessment Data:

Over 85% of participants from the last four programs indicated agreement with these statements:
1. I learned more about our Jesuit, Catholic identity.
2. I connected with staff from other areas of the University.
3. I enjoyed my experience at LOOP 201: Partners in Mission.

Please Provide Any Other Information:

This is a requirement for all new staff, supported by HR. Receiving institutional support to dedicate this much time with each staff member is not taken for granted.