University Human Resources

Staff Essentials

The Staff Essentials Program reflects Brown’s commitment to supporting professional development, engagement and success for all staff. Offered by Learning, Development & Engagement, this program is designed specifically for individual contributors, staff who do not manage direct reports. It provides a strong foundation of knowledge, connection and resources to help you thrive at Brown.

Program Overview

Staff Essentials is a two-part, in-person series, with each session lasting three hours. Together, these sessions introduce key HR services, policies and resources that shape the employee experience at Brown.

Each session features interactive discussions, real-world examples and opportunities to learn directly from subject-matter experts.

No pre-work is required.

Sessions

  1. Session 1: 
    Learning, Development & Engagement and Compensation Services
  2. Session 2: 
    Benefits and Wellness, Employee and Labor Relations, and Talent Acquisition and Employment Services

Important

These sessions are designed to complement one another. Participants are strongly encouraged to attend both sessions within the same cohort for the full experience.

The Individual Contributor’s Journey at Brown

At Brown, the individual contributor’s journey is designed to foster professional growth, connection and continuous learning. It begins with a strong foundation in onboarding, understanding University policies and exploring the many resources that support your success.

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Start your journey

 
  • Onboarding
  • Compliance training
  • Role-based training as required

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Participate in learning opportunities

 
  • New Employee Orientation
  • Staff Essentials
  • CliftonStrengths for Individuals
  • Leading From Where You Are

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Explore other programs

 
  • Staff Development Day
  • Administrative Fellows Program
  • Employee Education Program
  • Communities of Practice
  • Departmental trainings and retreats

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Fine-tune your skills

 
  • LinkedIn Learning
  • eLearning
  • Learning, Development & Engagement Library
  • On the job training
  • Stretch assignments

Through these opportunities, Brown supports every staff member in building essential skills, confidence and meaningful professional connections.

Benefits of the Program

Staff Essentials helps you better understand how to navigate Brown while building relationships and practical knowledge you can use right away.

Through the program, you will:

  • Strengthen your understanding of key HR policies and processes across the employee lifecycle
  • Build connections with colleagues across departments
  • Learn directly from HR experts in areas that impact your work
  • Gain practical insights you can immediately apply in your role
  • Increase awareness of resources that support your growth and well-being

Eligibility and Participation

Who can participate:

All staff members who do not manage direct reports. 

If you supervise employees, you are encouraged to enroll in the Management Essentials Program.

Participation expectations:

  • Attend both sessions within your selected cohort

  • Actively engage in discussions and learning activities

Schedule and Registration

Enroll through Workday Learning to join an upcoming cohort.

Please select a cohort where you are available to attend both sessions. If your schedule changes, consider registering for a future offering.

For questions or additional information, contact: ldeteam@brown.edu

Upcoming Cohorts: