Archive for January, 2026

Insurance life events, also known as qualifying life events (QLEs), are specific occurrences or changes in a person’s life that allow them to enroll in or change health insurance coverage outside of the regular enrollment periods according to healthinsurance.org. These events typically trigger a special enrollment period, giving individuals a chance to adjust their coverage to better fit their new circumstances. Common Qualifying Life Events: Changes in household size: Marriage, birth or adoption of a child, or death of a covered family member. Changes in employment status (Dependent or employee): Losing job-based health insurance or being laid off. Dependent Loss of other coverage: Losing Medicare, Medicaid, or CHIP coverage eligibility. ***Please Note*** You only have 30 days from your qualifying life event date to make changes. If you have any questions, please reach out to Human Resources at humanresources@acu.edu.

iPhone Photography Tips & Tricks Your iPhone is smart, but it’s not a photographer. In this short class, we’ll take back control by learning a few small techniques that make a big difference: how to frame a shot, where to stand, when to tap, and how to use light on purpose. This is on January 30th from 12:00-12:50 in the Innovation Foundry (LIB 340). You’ll walk away taking photos that actually feel like what you saw. RSVP here

A consultant from TIAA will be offering individual counseling sessions on campus to discuss your personal financial situation and retirement investments on January 27th and 28th. You can register for an appointment online. Appointments fill up fast and are reserved on a first come, first served basis. Register HERE

The Office of Intercultural Engagement & Belonging alongside the Asian Students Organization invites you to celebrate the Lunar New Year with us as we welcome the Year of the Horse through an evening of culture, community, and joy. This special celebration will include a catered meal, engaging cultural presentations and performances, interactive activities, and a breathtaking luminous dragon and lion dance performance that highlights tradition, energy, and good fortune. Whether you are honoring your heritage or learning about Lunar New Year for the first time, this event offers a meaningful and festive space to gather, connect, and celebrate together. Event Details Date: Saturday, February 7th Time: 6:00–8:00 PM Location: Hillcrest Church of Christ Tickets: $5 for students | $10 general admission Purchase tickets online HERE. Seats are limited, and tickets will not be sold at the door. Advance purchase is required.

Do you need to update the amount you contribute to your retirement account? You may change the amount of your contributions any time. All changes will become effective as soon as you make updates and will remain in effect until modified or terminated by you. You may discontinue your contributions anytime. Once you stop making contributions, you may start again at any time. You can change your retirement savings by logging into Workday, going to “Benefits and Pay” on the left hand menu, and clicking on “Change Retirement Savings.”

Do you know an ACU alumni who is looking to complete their master’s or doctoral degree? Beginning fall 2026, all ACU on-campus and online graduate programs will offer 20% off of tuition for those who have obtained a degree from ACU. From business and education to ministry, healthcare, leadership, and more, this expanded discount makes advanced study at ACU more accessible than ever. Encourage ACU grads in your circle to explore our full list of graduate programs and take advantage of this opportunity. You can access more information HERE.

If you drive for university business, please take a moment to ensure you are aligned with the University Driver Policy (Policy No. 740). Supervisors are asked to maintain an up to date list of Routine Drivers (as defined in the policy) and submit it annually to Risk Management. Routine Drivers must complete an annual motor vehicle record check and driver safety training every five years. Before any trip that includes passengers, a passenger list must be submitted to Risk Management prior to departure. This helps us support traveler safety and emergency response readiness. Risk Management is happy to assist with driver records, training verification, or questions at risk@acu.edu. Thank you for helping keep our campus community safe on the road. Link to University Driver Policy

Applications and abstracts for the 2026 Undergraduate Research, Creativity, and Innovation Festival at Abilene Christian University are due on Friday, January 30, 2026 by 5 p.m. The ACU Undergraduate Research, Creativity, and Innovation Festival is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026 in the Hunter Welcome Center. To learn more about the Undergraduate Research, Creativity, and Innovation Festival, watch this video. For additional information and to submit a proposal, visit the following link. All students who have participated in research and other scholarly activities are encouraged to submit an abstract. If you have questions, you may contact the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs at orsp@acu.edu or the Office of Undergraduate Research at uresearch@acu.edu.

University Credit Union makes payday even better. With direct deposit, you can access your funds up to two days early, giving you more flexibility and peace of mind. It’s fast, secure, and designed to fit your schedule. Get started!

With the University closed for the holidays, December 24-January 2, Advancement Services wants you to know that any donation checks postmarked by December 31 will still be gift receipted as 2025 gifts. When offices re-open, please deliver any donations, including envelopes and correspondence, you have received as soon as possible to Admin. Building, Room 300, or mail to Gift Records, ACU Box 29132. May your New Year be richly blessed!”