Energy Secretary Granholm visits, says farewell
Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm visited Ames National Laboratory on Monday, Dec. 16, as part of a Farewell Event that was broadcast live for the participation of all 17 national laboratories across the country. Granholm was joined by Geri Richmond, Under Secretary for Science and Innovation. Both praised the national laboratories for their dedication to the DOE mission, and the spirit of innovation and discovery that laboratories contribute to the nation’s benefit, security, and prosperity. She followed her farewell address with a tour of the Critical Materials Innovation Hub, the Advanced Magnet Facility, and the Institute for the Cooperative Upcycling of Plastics. A video of the farewell address event can be viewed at this link.
Badging: New shareable resources and lanyards
New resources for employees and supervisors
Check out the updated Resources webpage for short downloadable slideshows about the most requested
topics.
Supervisors: We have created a page specifically for you with the most important messages and resources to help you assist your team through this change. Have ideas for other things that would be useful? Let us know.
New and updated lanyards available
We heard your concerns about lanyard discomfort. We are modifying existing lanyards with new breakaway clips, and these will be available in January. A new type of lanyard with a reel is available now. You can pick up (or trade for a new option) a lanyard, clip, or armband from the Badging Office in 105 TASF, or obtain your own.
Time to get a new badge yet?
Everyone needs to wear and display whichever badge they have starting in January 2025. PIV Badges, Ames Lab Badges, and ISUCards are all okay. So, do you need a new badge?
● If you are not eligible for a PIV Badge: Yes, get your Ames Lab Badge before January (if you haven’t already). Thank you to the 227 people who have gotten their Ames Lab Badges!
● If you are eligible for a PIV Badge: Not yet. Use your ISUCard for door access and to display. If you prefer to display an Ames Lab Badge, you can get one from the Badging Office (you will still need a PIV Badge when it is your turn). The Badging Office will notify you when it is time to start the PIV Badge process.
● Not sure which type of badge you need? Visit badging.ameslab.gov.
Questions? Visit the Badging Project website at badging.ameslab.gov, or contact the Badging Office: Email badgingoffice@ameslab.gov, call 515-294-6076, or stop by 105 TASF.
Performance reviews to move to Workday in 2025
Human Resources is excited to announce that Ames Lab Professional & Scientific and Postdoc performance reviews will be moving to Workday in 2025. This change comes in part because Saba/Halogen, which has been utilized for P&S and Postdoc reviews, will no longer be offering performance management software. Workday is already utilized for performance reviews for our merit employees, and it will provide easier access to all staff, since there is not a VPN requirement for offsite access. Merit performance reviews will remain in Workday. You are encouraged to continue to discuss your performance and progress on goals with your supervisor throughout the year.
Make a difference: Join the Ames National Laboratory Blood Drive!
Ames National Laboratory is partnering with the American Red Cross to save lives—and we need your help to make an impact!
When:
Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Where:
301 Spedding
How to Participate:
- Donate Blood
Sign up for an appointment today! Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred to ensure a smooth experience. Stop by G11 TASF to schedule your slot or register online HERE. - Volunteer
Can’t donate? You can still make a difference by volunteering at the event or spreading the word! Sign up to volunteer HERE.
New to Donating?
Every hero has a first step! If you’ve never donated blood before, it’s easier than you think—and the impact is profound. Watch this short video to see how blood donations save lives and how you can be part of the change: Watch: How Blood Donations Save Lives
Important Notes:
- Bring a photo ID or blood donor card to your appointment.
- Share our mission with your colleagues to help us reach our goal!
Together, we can create a ripple effect of kindness and save countless lives. Let’s make this blood drive one to remember—your small act can make a big difference!