CMU Shout-Outs spread positivity university-wide

The CMU community is one that prides itself on lifting each other up and supporting each other in countless ways every day. Now, there is a quick and easy way to let someone know they are appreciated for the things they do: CMU Shout-Outs. 

Anyone with a CMU email address can send a CMU Shout-Out to anyone at CMU. The sender completes an online form requiring the sender's name and CMU email, the name and CMU email of the recipient, and a message of appreciation, encouragement or congratulations.

Jamie Brown, manager of professional development with CMU Human Resources wanted to find a fun and spontaneous way for faculty, staff and students to recognize each other outside of a formal recognition program like the annual staff and faculty excellence awards.

“I hope it makes some additional personal connections for people. This just helps to create a positive culture among people and recognizes people at a time when they might feel like nobody understands or appreciates what they do,” Brown said.

CMU Shout-Outs is a peer-to-peer recognition initiative that ties directly to priority three of the CMU Strategic Plan focused on enhancing organizational culture. Because it is easy to use, Brown says it now just takes a minute to make someone else’s entire day.

“I think one of the best things about Central is our people. I know the connections that I've made over the last 27 years have meant the most to me. And so hopefully that continues with something simple like this,” Brown said.

Brown and former student assistant Morgan Shropshire developed CMU Shout-Outs based on similar programs at Arizona State University, the University of Iowa, and Disney’s Cast Compliments program that allows guests to provide quick, positive feedback to staff.

CMU Shout-Outs is designed specifically for CMU, providing one more way to spread positivity across campus.

“Maybe if you don't know someone super well, but you want to send them a note, it just creates an easy way to send somebody on campus a personal note to thank them or appreciate them,” Brown said.