Connect Newsletter (Feb. 5, 2026)

Read Important Information Before UKG Pro WFM Go-Live

We are officially approaching the UKG Workforce Management go-live on Feb. 8. It is critical that you take a moment and read through the information before the launch. You will find information on:

• Important timecard timeline
• Where to go for help
• Information for those clocking in / out on Feb. 8
• and more key information 

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn more. 

Celebrate Our Top Inpatient RSV Immunization Champions

The Immunization Taskforce wants to recognize and celebrate our top three inpatient clinicians who are leading the way in ordering RSV immunizations for their patients in the month of December.

Their commitment to prevention and proactive care is helping protect some of our most vulnerable patients and supports our shared goal of keeping children healthy and out of the hospital.

Please join us in congratulating

• Laura Romano, M.D.
• Sara Berhardt, NNP
• Erik Evans, NNP

Thank you for your leadership, attention to prevention, and dedication to patient safety. Your efforts truly make a difference for the children and families we serve.

For questions about RSV or other immunizations, please visit the Immunization Hub CookNet site.

Why Does Psychological Safety Matter?

One of this year's annual learning requirements focuses on Psychological Safety. Building this environment is essential for the families who trust us with their care. 

Visit Connect Newsroom to learn more. 

Microsoft Windows 11 Coming to Virtual Desktops 

As part of our commitment to providing up-to-date technology, we’re upgrading Follow Me Desktop (FMD) to Windows 11. The automatic rollout begins on the evening of Feb. 11, 2026. You’ll continue to access FMD through Citrix and MyAccess, just with a fresh, updated interface.

Windows 10 will be removed and replaced with Windows 11, a modern operating system designed for better performance, usability, and security. It is designed to be simpler and more visually appealing.

If you're working after 9 p.m. on Feb. 11, you'll want to be sure to save your work.

Please click here to learn more about what to expect.

Mark Your Calendars for Research Week Events 

Join the Research Department in celebrating Research Week with these system-wide events:

Learn more about the utility of non-pharmacological interventions in pediatric acquired demyelinating disorders at 8 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb.17, in-person at the Hochberger Auditorium at the Medical Center-Fort Worth. Register for the event here. 

Next, discover the life cycle of research between 1 - 3 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at the Medical Center - Fort Worth in the Atrium. This is a special event for employees, families and patients, and registration is not required.  

Finally, attend a Research Symposium between 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. on Feb. 19 and 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 20, at Medical Center - Fort Worth in the Hochberger Auditorium. To register for the Symposium please click here. 

To learn more about other events happening across our system please visit our CookNet Employee Calendar on the homepage. Have a system-wide event you'd like featured? Please email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

Nominate a Sepsis Superhero for the 2026 Clover Award 

We’re calling on you to help honor a Cook Children’s Sepsis Superhero during Patient Safety Awareness Week, March 9–12. Deadline for submission is Monday, Feb. 16. 

The Clover Award was created in memory of Clover Annabell Harrold, a 9‑month‑old from South Carolina whose life was tragically cut short by sepsis. Her parents, Allison and Daniel Harrold, established this award to ensure Clover’s legacy drives awareness, action, and lifesaving vigilance.

This recognition celebrates individuals who make a powerful difference through rapid identification and treatment of sepsis. This work prevents life‑altering complications and saves lives every day. Nominate someone who exemplifies excellence in early sepsis recognition and timely intervention.

To submit your nomination for the Clover Award, click here. 

Share Your Content with Us

Do you have any tips, ideas or content you would like us to know about? We want to hear from you! Please view our SharePoint site and email us at InternalCommunications@cookchildrens.org. 

Check our CookNet calendar for more system-wide events and to find more content about our employees and news you need to know, bookmark our Connect Newsroom website.