Changes to Expense Accounts

Starting July 1st , units in FAES are required to use the new Standard Expense Account Numbers when submitting or approving eRequest, eTravel or expense related journal entries. The goal of the new list is to simplify the accounting and reporting process and to create consistency among FAES units.

These account numbers should be used whenever possible and it is the responsibility of the unit’s budget approver to review them when approving. In most instances the Business Operations Center will not change account numbers on transactions, but may use discretion if a category change (ex. supplies vs. services) is appropriate.

Use of the full account number list should be rare and should have a reason stated on the request prior to submission.
Units that need to use cost of sales, receivable or liability account numbers for their operations may continue to do so.

FAQ

Why do I need to change what I am using?

In order to create more consistency and stability in reports for the college, it is useful to use a limited set of account numbers. When one unit decides not to use the list it will create difficulty at the college level when consolidating or comparing units.

Isn’t the University doing this?

The University will be considering a Chartfield overhaul when the new Enterprise Resource Planning system is implemented. By simplifying the process now we can alleviate some burden in transitioning to a new chart of accounts.

Did you consider OSP requirements when creating this list?

Yes, some account numbers were specifically chosen because of OSP expectations.

What if I don’t find something on the list that applies to what I am doing?

Think critically before using a account number not from the list. For instance – you may be doing Photographic Services, but is there any reason you need an account number for this? Would Purchased Services provide enough information for your needs?

What if I am using an account number to track a transaction?

Let’s say you are using 61219 to track Safety Supplies. Does “Safety” have to be in your account number or could you use 61217 Lab Supplies instead and designate safety equipment using other Chartfield? Could you use a program number, a user defined or even a fund number that relates to safety instead?

Do I need to go back and change my existing transactions, purchase orders, etc.?

No – the transactions that have already been or are in process can remain in the existing account numbers.

When is this effective?

7/1/2016

Account Number Explanations

Resources: Standard Expense Account Numbers

Questions: Cindy Buxton

PCard Procedure Changes July 1, 2016

For All PCard Users:

–        Sponsorships guidelines have been added to the supporting documentation requirements. This requires approval from FAES before making the purchase. Sponsorship Guidelines

–        PCard Statements: PCard statements must now be reviewed and signed by the PCard manager AND an additional person in the unit. This creates stronger internal controls.

–        PCard Statements: PCard statements no longer need to be mailed to the Columbus BOC. (Cards that were reallocated in Columbus previously had to send statements to Columbus).Statements can remain in a file with the PCard manager.

–        PCard Statements: The Business Operations Center may periodically request the PCard manager to mail one month’s statement and log to verify that proper procedures are being followed.

–        Records Retention: Reminder – PCard statements and logs should be retained for 4 full years. Local copies of support documentation (receipts, attendee lists, packing slips) that have been scanned and attached to an eRequest should be retained for 60 days prior to destroying.

For Extension Only:

–        User agreement forms and unit director agreement forms have been eliminated. The only form required for PCard designating PCard authority is completed by the PCard manager at the time of application. Unit directors may still choose to limit who may use the PCard. This simply eliminates the formal process for documentation.

–        The Overnight Checkout Form is now optional. It may be used at the discretion of the PCard manager but is not required,

–        A Non Capital Equipment Log is no longer required to be uploaded to the eRequest for PCard transactions. The log should still be updated as purchases are made; it is just no longer required to be attached.

 

Questions: cfaesbusiness@osu.edu

Travel Procedure Changes Effective July 1, 2016

In order to create consistency for customers in the Wooster and Columbus Business Operation Center locations we are changing some requirements for travel submissions for quicker reimbursements and better controls.

  • eRequest number for PCard and pre-payments required on the Travel Reimbursement Form
  • Agenda for registration required to be attached to Travel Reimbursement Form (unless already attached to Travel Request).
  • Itinerary for airfare required to be attached to Travel Reimbursement Form (unless already attached to Travel Request).
  • Blanket T numbers will be limited to only transportation expenses (no overnight costs).

Questions: cfaesbusiness@osu.edu

Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) Changes

Colleagues,

As you may or may not be aware, earlier this week the U.S. Department of Labor issued changes to the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) expanding the number of people who are eligible for overtime.

The revised regulations raise the salary threshold for non-exempt employees from $23,660 to $47,476 annually. Employees earning a salary below the threshold are considered non-exempt and will be eligible to receive overtime pay when working more than 40 hours in a week. Exceptions in the statute include teachers, attorneys, physicians and others.

The federal government has given employers until December 1, 2016, to comply with the law. The revisions made to the FLSA regulations require changes to a number of Ohio State compensation systems and practices. Project teams representing stakeholders across the university have been planning for this anticipated transition.

The university has assured us of their commitment to support affected employees, their supervisors and local units as we work to implement the necessary changes. College Leadership and our team will work in conjunction with OHR to provide assistance to employees, supervisors and leaders in learning and implementing updated internal policies and processes.

We will provide additional information once the new regulations are reviewed in more detail and next steps are determined. Please let me know if you have any questions in the meantime.

OHR will have updates on their website as available: https://hr.osu.edu/services/compensation/flsa/

Elayne M. Siegfried, Esq.
Human Resources Director
College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
Research Services, 1680 Madison Avenue, Wooster, OH 44691-4096
330-263-3932 Office / 330-263-3695 Fax
siegfried.20@osu.edu osu.edu

Ohio Agriculture Hall of Fame Inductees Announced

The Ohio Agricultural Council recently announced the 2016 Ohio Agricultural Hall of Fame inductees, including John C. (Jack) Fisher of Columbus, J. Richard (Dick) Isler of Delaware, Dr. Keith Smith of Hilliard, and Timothy White of Lancaster. These individuals – who have committed their lives to working in, promoting and advocating for Ohio’s farm community – will be inducted as the 51st class on Friday, August 5, 2016, during a special breakfast ceremony at the Ohio Expo Center.

“Our Board is extraordinarily pleased to be honoring such an outstanding group of inductees into this year’s class,” said Jim Chakeres, OAC president. “Each inductee stands out individually for his exceptional contributions to Ohio agriculture, but together they represent the passion, creativity and hard work evidenced by their collective decades of unmatched experience.”

Induction will take place in the all-new Cardinal Hall on the fairgrounds, which will feature an expanded Hall of Fame display and salute to Ohio’s agriculture community. The following four inductees will join 217 prior recipients named since 1966 when the program began.

John C. (Jack) Fisher, Columbus, Ohio

Often described as a visionary leader, Jack Fisher has served as executive vice president of the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation for two decades. From the farmer and consumer connection to political advocacy on behalf of the community and industry, Fisher’s efforts have helped the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation and Ohio agriculture shape strong policies that impact all Ohioans.

Previously, Fisher served as deputy director and assistant director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture, director of the Illinois Corn Growers Association and Marketing Board, executive director of governmental affairs and commodities for Illinois Farm Bureau, and plant manager for Wyandot, Inc.

Fisher has served on numerous agricultural boards and committees and has received state and national recognitions for his leadership to the industry.

J. Richard (Dick) Isler, Delaware, Ohio

Born and raised on a livestock farm, Dick Isler has devoted his entire career in service to Ohio agriculture. For more than 40 years, Isler served as the executive vice president of the Ohio Pork Council. Under his leadership, the Ohio Pork Council was considered by many as one of the top state pork association’s in the country. Farmers, 4-H, processors, marketers, elected officials, researchers, fair managers, and consumers have all benefited from Isler’s commitment and leadership to agriculture with an emphasis on swine.

Isler has received many awards and recognitions, including the Ohio State Fair Hall of Fame, Animal Sciences Department Hall of Fame, and the National Pork Producers Council Executive Professional Award.

Keith L. Smith, Hilliard, Ohio

For more than four decades, Dr. Keith Smith has dedicated his life to engaging and strengthening individuals’ lives and communities through research-based educational programming. His career began as an agricultural science teacher in Brigham City, Utah. Through the years, he has served as professor, associate vice president for Agricultural Administration, the director of The Ohio State University (OSU) Extension, and associate dean of the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences at OSU.

Serving as the director of OSU Extension for more than 20 years, Smith managed a $68 million budget and oversaw nearly 800 faculty and support staff. Under his leadership, OSU Extension was recognized as one of the best extension programs in the country.

Timothy F. White, Lancaster, Ohio

Tim White has helped translate the science and issues of agriculture to both farmers and consumers for nearly 40 years. When writing for farmers, his stories about production, policy, economics and industry trends provided valuable knowledge and insight. When writing to consumers, his stories positioned Ohio agriculture as interesting and relevant. As a veteran farm writer for Ohio Farmer magazine, White has been recognized as one of the most admired ag-beat writers in the company’s history.

In addition, White has been an active contributor to the agricultural community. He has dedicated his talents to the extended farm family as a supporter of youth development, participant in farm organizations, and as a leader in state and national journalism organizations. Tim is also a recognized leader in the advocacy of land conservation and land use.

The annual event is expected to attract 500 guests to honor these four professionals for their lifetime of service and dedication to Ohio’s agriculture community.

For further information about sponsorship in honor of the inductees, or to obtain tickets to the Agricultural Hall of Fame induction ceremony, contact the Ohio Ag Council at 614-794-8970 or via email at info@ohioagcouncil.org.

Blood Drive – July 12

Hospital patients don’t get a summer holiday or vacation from needing blood. Your donation matters and can help prevent a shortage this summer. Please schedule an appointment to donate blood at the Agricultural Administration Building! All donors will receive a Buy One Get One Coupon to the Columbus Zoo.

july_2016_sponsor_bulletin

Tuesday, July 12
10am to 4pm
Agricultural Administration Building
If you donated on or before May 17 you may be eligible to donate at this drive.

To schedule an appointment visit: www.redcrossblood.org search buckeyes or email Abby Hooker at hooker.189@osu.edu  

Thank you!

Abigail Hooker

The Ohio State University

Animal Sciences, Class of 2017

President, Towers Agricultural Honorary

Vice President, OSU Pre-Veterinary Medical Association

Teaching Assistant, Animal Sciences 2700

Hooker.189@osu.edu I (586)-747-2880

Volunteers Needed: AEDE Research Project

Researchers in Ohio State’s Department of Agricultural, Environment and Development Economics are looking for participants for a research study investigating consumer eating habits and food handling behavior. All participants will earn a free onsite lunch (sandwich, chips, fruit, soft drink) and parking or COTA bus reimbursement as compensation for participating in the 15 minute study.

Participants, who must be at least 18 years old, will be asked to review an information card, answer several questions about the information card and then complete an anonymous survey.

Sessions are scheduled for mid-day from now until the end of July and will be held on the Ohio State campus. To participate, email lunchstudy@osu.edu to state your interest and a member of the research team will reply with available dates and times.

Thank you,

Nicole

Nicole Pierron Rasul
Program Manager, Communications and Outreach
Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Development Economics (AEDE)
104B Agricultural Administration Building  | 2120 Fyffe Road Columbus, OH 43210
614-688-1323 Office | 614-292-4749 Fax
pierronrasul.1@osu.edu  aede.osu.edu

Calling all Inventors: Accelerator Award submissions due July 22nd

The Accelerator Awards provide Ohio State researchers with an initial infusion of capital to further develop and validate inventions, software, and technologies.   Concept development, prototyping, coding, market studies and customer validation efforts are eligible uses for an Accelerator Award.  Available to all Ohio State researchers who have disclosed their inventions to the TCO, awards are distributed in amounts up to $50,000. Applications for this round of funding are due July 22nd.

To apply for an award please visit:

https://innovate.osu.edu/accelerator_awards/

NIH Guide Notice Regarding Implementation of the Updated Fair Labor Standards Act

Subject: NIH Guide Notice regarding implementation of the updated Fair Labor Standards Act

Dear All:

NIH officials are working on an NIH Guide Notice regarding implementation of the updated Fair Labor Standards Act released last month.  To comply with the updated rule, NIH will be increasing the base stipend of NRSA awards to meet the new $47,476 threshold by the December 1 implementation date. The agency is still working out specifics, such as the incremental increases for Year 3 and beyond NRSA fellows and how to address compliance with the rule for the majority of postdocs who are supported by Research Project Grants (e.g., R01s).

The NIH leadership is very receptive to learning more about specific situations we may have at our institution that could affect implementation of this rule (e.g., foreign scholars on a fellowship that provides a stipend that is not commensurate with the new FLSA threshold). Feel free to submit your questions to the comments section of the May 18 blog posted by Dr. Michael Lauer, Deputy Director for Extramural Research, or you can send them to me and I can pass them along to Yvette R. Seger, Director of Science Policy at FASEB who can raise them at one of her upcoming meetings with leadership.

The NIH Guide notice will be posted in approximately a month.

Some of you may already be aware of this, but I wanted to make sure I reached those who were not aware.

Thanks,

Marcela
J. Marcela Hernandez, PhD
Graduate & STEM Diversity Director
College of Arts and Sciences Recruitment and Diversity Services
154 F Denney Hall, 164 Annie & John Glenn Ave, Columbus, OH 43210
614-292-2642 Office
hernandez.16@osu.edu

SLI alumna 2014

Gypsy Moth Treatments Scheduled for Columbus in June

The gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (L.), is one of the most notorious and destructive insect pests threatening Ohio’s hardwood forests and ornamental landscape plants. Recent trapping by the Ohio Department of Agriculture (ODA) indicated a growing population of gypsy moths in Franklin County. To combat this, the ODA will be conducting aerial treatments designed to disrupt gypsy moth mating in Franklin County, including The Ohio State University campus area.

 Gypsy moths are invasive insects that attack more than 300 different types of trees and shrubs, with oak being the preferred species. In its caterpillar stage, the moth feeds heavily on the leaves of trees and shrubs limiting their ability to photosynthesize. A healthy tree can usually withstand only two years of defoliation before it is permanently damaged or dies.

 The first adult male moths in Ohio were trapped in 1971, in Ashtabula County. Since that time, the moth has been slowly advancing across the state, with the ODA using several treatment programs to combat the infestation.  The ODA operates the Slow-the-Spread Program, which focuses on monitoring, detecting, and reducing isolated populations to slow the gypsy moth’s movement across the state through treatments.

 As part of the Slow-the-Spread Program, the ODA will be using a single application of the product Disrupt II to slow the spread of the gypsy moth. This product does not kill the moth, but it disrupts the mating process by confusing the male as it searches for a female mate. Disrupt II is specific to gypsy moth and is not harmful to humans, birds, plants or pets.

 A yellow airplane will fly 100-200 feet above the tree tops to apply the treatment, which is slated for June 22. For more information on the gypsy moth, including maps of treatment areas and videos of the mating disruption process, please visit http://www.agri.ohio.gov/divs/plant/gypsy/gypsy-index.aspx.

Ohio State ATI Director Search

Dear CFAES Faculty, Staff, and Students:

The College’s search for a new Director of the Ohio State Agricultural Technical Institute (Ohio State ATI) is now underway, and we are  actively recruiting candidates for the position.  We are committed to identifying the strongest pool of candidates possible, and we are relying on you to help through your extensive networks within and outside of The Ohio State University.  So please think broadly and nominate individuals that you know are committed to the instruction of the next generation of agricultural professionals and would bring an innovative approach to help increase the profile and resources of Ohio State ATI. The search committee will be happy to consider every nomination we receive, and is grateful for your engagement in the search process.

Nominating individuals is easy.  All we need are names, positions, and contact information. And while we would appreciate your personal statement of support, it is not necessary to nominate an individual for this important position within CFAES.

Nominations may be sent to either Carol (anelli.7@osu.edu) or me (goebel.11@osu.edu), to Martin Baker of Baker and Associates Executive Search Consultants (Mbaker@baasearch.com), or to any member of the search committee (see the committee link at http://cfaes.osu.edu/about-cfaes/college-leadership/leadership-searches).

Please help us build a strong candidate pool for this important leadership position, and thanks in advance for your help.

Best regards,

Carol Anelli and Charles Goebel

Search Co-chairs

P. Charles Goebel, Ph.D.
Assistant Director and Professor
The Ohio State University
School of Environment and Natural Resources
135 Williams Hall, 1680 Madison Ave, Wooster, OH 44691
330-263-3789 Office

goebel.11@osu.edu 

http://oardc.osu.edu/ferel/index.htm

Zika Response Team Forming – Seeking Faculty & Staff

Colleagues,

 Several CFAES extension educators and entomologists have formed a Zika response team, the purpose being to provide reliable, consistent information on the vector and disease for college outreach, and to avoid duplication of efforts.   Team efforts will begin with discussion of what our response should be to the situation as it develops, and what kind of information will be most useful to our clients.

Please let me know if you are interested in participating.

Best regards,

Mary Ann ‘Mimi’ Rose, Ph.D.
Director, Pesticide Safety Education Program
Ohio State University Extension
College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences

(614) 247-7489

rose.155@osu.edu

The Ohio Dept. of Health Zika Virus webpage is a very useful resource on the disease for Ohioans.   http://www.odh.ohio.gov/zika