Staff Appreciation Week
May 19–23, 2025
Staff Senate is thrilled to dedicate an entire week to expressing appreciation for the incredible staff members that keep LMU running. This week is about celebrating you! Congratulations on completing this academic year, and we look forward to spending time together.
En EspañolSpirit Days
Each day, we invite you to join the celebration by wearing themed apparel. It’s a festive way to show off your LMU pride, connect with colleagues, and enjoy the week together.
| Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pajama Pants | Tie Dye | Alma Mater | Sports Team | LMU Pride |
Special Perks
LMU Bookstore Discount
Treat yourself! On Wednesday, May 21, the LMU Bookstore is offering an exclusive 30% discount just for staff. Simply show your OneCard at checkout to take advantage of this special offer and stock up on LMU gear, gifts, or supplies.
On-campus Massages
Take a well-deserved moment to relax and recharge. As part of Staff Appreciation Week, Human Resources Wellbeing is offering complimentary on-campus massages for LMU staff. Availability is limited and appointments fill quickly — keep an eye on your inbox for an email from the Wellbeing team with full details on how to sign up.
Registration is required for all Staff Appreciation Week activities unless otherwise stated. Some events may have attendance limits.
Rooted in Mission
Leading with Hope in Tumultuous Times
Monday, May 19 | 10 a.m.–noon
William H. Hannon Library
Von der Ahe Family Suite
Moderated by John Sebastian, vice president of mission and ministry
As we navigate a time marked by uncertainty and division, LMU’s mission and our Jesuit values remain a powerful call — not only to serve, but to accompany and uplift one another. This reflective panel invites staff voices to share how they are drawing strength and direction from our shared mission. Together, we’ll hold space for honest reflection and collective renewal — a chance to pause, reconnect, and move forward as a community of care, courage, and purpose.
Community and Connection
Art Therapy + Yoga + Sound Bath on the Bluff
Tuesday, May 20 | 10 a.m.–noon
Mbongi Spot Lawn
Whether you’re into yoga, creativity, or both, join us for a rejuvenating morning on the bluff. Enjoy a guided yoga and sound bath session in a serene outdoor setting, or join a relaxed art therapy session nearby and get creative. This is a wonderful opportunity to unwind, connect with colleagues, and appreciate the importance of mental well-being. All skill levels are welcome, and materials will be provided.
Wall Climbing
Tuesday, May 20 | 5–7 p.m.
Sender One Climbing, Playa Vista
Ready to reach new heights? Take advantage of a special staff discount for an evening of indoor climbing fun! Just show your LMU OneCard to receive free shoe rental and chalk, plus a discounted $20 entrance fee. Whether you're a seasoned climber or a total beginner, it's a great chance to get moving, challenge yourself, and maybe even try something new.
No registration needed — just drop in and climb on!
Wellness Wednesday: Staff Appreciation Edition
Wednesday, May 21 | 11 a.m.–2 p.m.
Alumni Mall
This special edition of Wellness Wednesday is a chance to connect with your LMU colleagues while enjoying delicious food and unique goods from local, family-owned businesses. You’ll also have the opportunity to practice your cornhole skills before the annual cornhole tournament and explore campus resources that support your personal well-being.
No registration required.
Coffee on the Bluff
Thursday, May 22 | 8–10 a.m.
O'Malley Lawn
Enjoy a delightful spread of breakfast pastries and coffee against the backdrop of breathtaking views. Take this opportunity to connect with colleagues and celebrate the dedication and hard work of our incredible staff.
Happy Hour + Movie Night
The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou
Thursday, May 22
Happy Hour: 5–6 p.m. | Screening: 6–8 p.m.
University Hall
Ahmanson Auditorium (Room 1000)
Join Staff Senate for Happy Hour, followed by a screening of The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou.
What's it about?
Internationally famous oceanographer Steve Zissou (Bill Murray) and his crew — Team Zissou — set sail on an expedition to hunt down the mysterious, elusive, possibly nonexistent Jaguar Shark that killed Zissou’s partner during the documentary filming of their latest adventure. They are joined on their voyage by a young airline co-pilot who may or may not be Zissou’s son (Owen Wilson), a beautiful journalist (Cate Blanchett) assigned to write a profile of Zissou, and his estranged wife and co-producer, Eleanor (Anjelica Huston). They face overwhelming complications including pirates, kidnapping, and bankruptcy.
Staff Appreciation BBQ
Friday, May 23 | 3–5 p.m.
Alumni Mall
Hosted by LMU Staff Senate
Get ready for good vibes and great eats! We’re cracking open the open bar and bringing the heat with the annual corn hole tournament. Whether you’re in it to win it or just here for the food and fun, come hang out and celebrate the awesome people who make this place run!
Special thanks to Marketing, Communications, and External Relations for generously sponsoring this year’s attendee gift.
4th Annual LMU Cornhole Tournament
Friday, May 23 | 3–5 p.m.
St. Robert's Lawn
Presented by University Credit Union
The first 48 teams to sign-up will be bracketed, and prizes will be given to the top three finishing teams.
Each member from the winning teams will receive the following:
- 1st Place: $100 gift card
- 2nd Place: $50 gift card
- 3rd Place: $25 gift card
Deadline to register is Tuesday, May 20.
Discover LMU
Treasures from the Library Vault
Wednesday, May 21 | 9–10 a.m. and 10–11 a.m.
William H. Hannon Library
Hosted by William H. Hannon Library
Hannon Library preserves rare and unique artifacts of enduring historical and cultural value — everything from medieval manuscripts to 21st-century art. Join library staff for a tour of the current spring 2025 exhibition on fashion objects, as well as a pop-up exhibit featuring items from their special collections, including materials from the University Archives, showcasing LMU's history.
Tours of Peaceful Places
Wednesday, May 21 | 9–10 a.m. and 10–11 a.m.
Sacred Heart Chapel
Hosted by Mission and Ministry
Take a peaceful walk through upper campus with University Chaplain Randall Roche, S.J., exploring LMU locations where both natural beauty and thoughtful design create a calming atmosphere. Your journey will begin along the bluff, stopping at two scenic spots, and then cross over to visit one or two areas near the Leavey Center. The walk will conclude with a final pair of tranquil places behind Sacred Heart Chapel. At each stop, we’ll take a moment to learn about the space and simply enjoy being present in it.
Personal Empowerment
From Conflict to Collaboration in Our Current Climate
Tuesday, May 20 | 2–4 p.m.
University Hall
ECC 1857
Facilitated by Julia Wade, director for generative dialogue and restorative practices, and Rick Olshak, interim title IX coordinator
This workshop introduces conflict theory to our campus community, which may be applied in practice for campus stakeholders as they navigate conflict in both their professional and personal lives. Through case studies and discussion, attendees will explore how our interests and needs present themselves in conflict and how we can navigate visible and invisible barriers to conflict resolution.
Reclaiming Our Power and Focus Within
Understanding and Shaping Our Circles of Influence
Thursday, May 22 | noon–2 p.m.
Malone Student Center
The Hill (Room 460)
Facilitated by Natalie Aguilar, learning specialist for the academic resource center
In a society and world where so much often feels out of our control, having practical strategies to ground us, illuminate action steps forward, and provide perspective on our values and identities is essential to creating balance and fostering self-empowerment. Through interactive exercises and group discussions, participants will learn how focusing on what they can control and influence boosts individual well-being and creates a more positive environment in their work and personal lives. Attendees will leave with a clear map of the areas in their lives where they can effect meaningful change and foster more positive outcomes for themselves and their communities. We often have more control than we realize — especially when we clearly understand the influence of our strengths, resources, and communities.