The University of Hartford’s Staff Council is launching an exciting new employee engagement and professional development initiative designed to strengthen connections across campus, increase institutional knowledge, and create a network of informed staff ambassadors.
The Staff Opportunity, Advancement, and Recognition (SOAR) Ambassador Program is a year-long experience that brings together staff members from across the University to explore the people, departments, services, and operations that contribute to UHart's success. Through immersive tours, presentations, and conversations with colleagues and campus leaders, participants will gain a deeper understanding of how the University functions while building meaningful relationships beyond their own departments.
Why SOAR?
Every employee plays an important role in the University community, but many staff members have limited opportunities to see firsthand how other areas contribute to the University experience. The SOAR Ambassador Program was created to bridge those gaps by providing participants with a behind-the-scenes look at the many departments and offices that keep UHart running.
Throughout the program, Ambassadors will:
- Learn about the University's history, mission, and strategic priorities
- Explore departments and services across campus
- Build relationships with colleagues from different offices and divisions
- Develop a broader understanding of the student experience
- Become knowledgeable ambassadors for the University within their own areas
By fostering greater collaboration and awareness, the program aims to create a more connected and engaged campus community.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to staff members who:
- Are eligible Staff Council members (staff below the Assistant Vice President level)
- Have supervisor support and approval to participate during work hours
For the pilot year, the program will select nine participants with representation distributed across all areas of the University. While Aramark and Facilities staff will not participate in the pilot cohort, future expansion of the program may provide opportunities for their involvement.
A Year of Discovery
The program kicks off in September with a welcome breakfast and introduction, providing participants with an overview of the University of Hartford's history, strengths, and future direction.
Throughout the year, Ambassadors will visit and learn from a variety of campus partners, with a tentative monthly schedule that includes (but not limited to):
- Athletics
- Public Safety
- Alumni Affairs/HCD (HPAC Day)
- Student Support Services and campus resource centers
- Residence Life, Dining Services, and Facilities
The experience culminates in a graduation luncheon in June celebrating participants' commitment to learning, collaboration, and community building.
Investing in Employee Engagement
As a pilot initiative, the SOAR Ambassador Program represents an investment in employee engagement and cross-campus collaboration. By helping staff members better understand the University's people, resources, and operations, the program seeks to create a more connected, informed, and engaged workforce.
The SOAR Ambassador Program embodies a simple but powerful idea: when employees understand the broader University community, everyone benefits. Through shared experiences, meaningful connections, and a spirit of discovery, participants will truly have the opportunity to soar.
Apply to be a SOAR Ambassador!
Applicants will be asked to share why they are interested in participating, acknowledge the program's time commitment, and provide a brief letter of support from their supervisor confirming their participation during work hours.
Applications are now being accepted with selections reviewed and approved by the SOAR Committee. The due date is Monday, Sept. 14. To apply, please fill out this form and make sure your supervisor emails their supporting statement to staff@hartford.edu. Accepted candidates will be notified by Monday, Sept. 21 via email.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Aramark, the Women’s Advancement Initiative, and the Office of Inclusive Excellence and Belonging for their support of this program!
If you have any questions, please email sywagner@hartford.edu.