November HR Updates: Important Deadlines, Career Opportunities, & Resources for UVA Employees

Check out these HR resources!

As we approach the end of 2026, there are several important HR deadlines, professional development opportunities, and wellness resources worth adding to your calendar. Here's a roundup of what UVAFinance employees should know this month.

Important Dates & Deadlines

November 30: Last Day to Earn 2026 Hoos Well Rewards

Eligible employees and spouses enrolled in the UVA Health Plan or UPG Anthem Plan have until November 30 to complete reward-eligible activities and earn up to $500 in Hoos Well rewards. Don't miss this final opportunity for 2026!

December 1: Calendar Year Performance Reviews Begin

Regular and Classified Staff participating in the Academic Division calendar-year appraisal process should watch their Workday inbox on December 1 for their 2026 self-evaluations. Visit the Academic Performance Management webpage for resources and additional information.

Invest in Your Professional Development

Looking for ways to grow your leadership and professional skills? Consider this upcoming learning opportunity:

• Skillful Change and Transitions - November 17, 12 - 1 PM
• Learn from Darden professor Dr. Lili Powell about navigating change, building resilience, and helping teams move through transitions. 

Registration information is available through UVA HR's learning and development resources.

Career Tip of the Month: Take time to reflect on the year. Identify three big accomplishments you're proud of and one lesson you've learned. Recognizing your progress can help you build motivation and set meaningful goals for the year ahead.

Benefits and Well-Being Updates

A few benefits reminders and wellness opportunities worth noting:

• HSA and FSA reminders: If you've contributed to an HSA, FSA, or Dependent Care FSA, review your balances and upcoming deadlines. Take time to understand applicable use-or-lose provisions so you don't leave money on the table. Visit the UVA Total Rewards Hub for details.
• New benefits carrier in 2027: Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, MetLife will become the new carrier for several UVA life insurance, disability, parental leave, and FMLA benefits. Review the full HR announcement to understand which benefits are affected.
• Micro Health Breaks: Through December 15, take advantage of 10-minute activities such as chair yoga, meditation, and low-intensity cardio to recharge during your workday.
• Wellness Book Club: Join the November 20 discussion of Indistractable by Nir Eyal and explore the psychology behind distraction and how to improve focus.

Even after the November 30 Hoos Well rewards deadline, the Hoos Well portal will remain available with wellness challenges, educational resources, healthy habit trackers, and access to health coaches.

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up the year, take a few minutes to review your benefits, check important deadlines, explore professional development opportunities, and make time for your well-being. 

A little planning now can help you finish 2026 strong and start the new year feeling prepared!