IN PERSON

Sometimes, work IS a picnic

A courtyard gathering brings HR colleagues together over burgers, chicken, hot dogs, side dishes, and cake

A group of staff members in conversation at tables

Image caption: Staff from Central Human Resources continue their conversations after lunch in the courtyard at Johns Hopkins at Eastern.

Credit: WILL KIRK / JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

Staff from Central Human Resources gathered Aug. 22 for a catered lunch in the courtyard at Johns Hopkins at Eastern. This informal event brought together colleagues from various HR functions to enjoy grilled selections (hamburgers, veggie burgers, chicken, hot dogs), cold and hot side dishes, cake topped by "Thank you to a wonderful team," and music as appreciation for their dedication and service to the JHU community.

This outdoor lunch is one of many recent on-campus activities that teams have planned and hosted to encourage engagement and collaboration among staff.

"It was wonderful seeing everyone together in one place," says Meredith Stewart, JHU's interim vice president for human resources. "Members of Central HR's administrative team did an awesome job coordinating this event. The food was delicious, and we couldn't have asked for better weather."