As we begin a new year, NC State Extension and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) are excited to introduce two new professional development opportunities designed to support the well-being, growth, and engagement of our faculty and staff across North Carolina. This new Virtual Wellness Series will kick off in January and aims to empower employees with tools that strengthen both personal resilience and our connections to the communities we serve.
Serving Our Communities: Making an Impact Through Community Service Leave
Friday, January 9, 2026 | 9:00–10:00 a.m. | Virtual
The first session in the series focuses on the power of community service and the meaningful role it plays in both personal well-being and organizational engagement. Participants will learn about the benefits of volunteering, explore NC State’s Community Service Leave (CSL) policy, and hear inspiring examples from colleagues who are already making a difference in their communities.
Whether coaching youth sports, supporting food security initiatives, partnering with local nonprofits, or contributing to Habitat for Humanity, community service reflects Extension’s mission of strengthening communities. This session will help employees discover ways to “fill their bucket,” meet a need in their community, and make a meaningful impact in the year ahead.
Real Colors®: Understanding Yourself and Others
Friday, February 13, 2026 | 9:00–10:00 a.m. | Virtual
The second session in the Virtual Wellness Series features the Real Colors® personality assessment—an interactive and engaging training that helps participants better understand their temperament, improve communication, and strengthen teamwork. Real Colors continues to be one of Extension’s most effective tools for enhancing relationships across teams and improving collaboration.
Supporting Wellness and Engagement in 2026
Both sessions in this series reflect Extension and CALS’ ongoing commitment to providing meaningful development opportunities that support our employees’ personal and professional well-being. By combining service, self-awareness, and practical storytelling from our colleagues, the Virtual Wellness Series equips employees with tools that foster connection, engagement, and a strengthened sense of purpose.
Registration Now Open
Registration for both sessions is now open in the Extension Learning Management System (XLMS). Faculty and staff across the state are encouraged to sign up and take advantage of these timely opportunities to begin 2026 with renewed energy, clarity, and commitment to service.
Learn More and Register
More details are available in XLMS, and additional reminders will be shared in upcoming communications. We look forward to seeing you in January and February as we kick off 2026 with learning, connection, and community-focused leadership.
