Staff Senate Committees

As the collective voice of our diverse workforce, our committees strive to create a harmonious and inclusive work environment, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among all employees. Through collaborative initiatives, policy recommendations, and dedicated support, we aim to celebrate staff achievements, address concerns, and ensure that every team member thrives both professionally and personally. Step into our world of proactive change and discover how we’re shaping a brighter future for our staff community together.
The Governance Committee
The Governance Committee is responsible for ensuring that the Staff Senate operates effectively, transparently, and in alignment with its governing documents. This committee shall review and maintain the Staff Senate Bylaws, ensuring the accuracy, validity, and relevance of all articles, and may seek guidance from the College’s Staff Attorney when necessary. In addition, the committee will assess representation across all organizational units, conduct elections for Senators and Officers, implement new Senator orientations, and maintain an updated record of outgoing Senators and other vacancies. The Governance Committee will also collaborate with the Secretary to keep current lists of committee leaders and members. Recommendations for any amendments to the Bylaws or adjustments to membership processes shall be provided to the Staff Senate for approval.
Members
- Katie Profeta (Chair)
- Gracia Buzziz (Co-Chair)
- Carolann Somers
- Mandie Finkelstein
- Megan Piett
- Sarah Phillips
The Engagement & Fundraising Committee
The Engagement and Fundraising Committee is responsible for fostering staff involvement, enhancing communication, and supporting the Staff Senate’s initiatives through outreach and fundraising efforts. The committee will create opportunities for staff to engage with campus and community projects, promoting a culture of service, collaboration, and innovation that benefits both the College and the broader community.
This committee oversees fundraising activities to support Staff Senate programs, operations, and staff needs. It is also responsible for communicating the activities and contributions of the Staff Senate to all staff members, collaborating with the College’s Office of Marketing, Media, and Brand (or designee) for Staff Senate website updates, and maintaining effective communication channels such as the Staff Senate email. The committee ensures that meeting minutes, event updates, and other relevant information are distributed in a timely manner, provides tools for interactive communication between the Staff Senate and staff across all campuses, and works with other committees to raise awareness about Staff Senate elections and initiatives.
Members
- Althea Wilson (Chair)
- Melissa Weber (Co-Chair)
- Laura Midkiff
- April Litton
- Azzam Abdur-Rahman
- Nichole Rummo
- Katie Romberger
The Workplace Culture Committee
The Workplace Culture Committee is dedicated to supporting a positive, healthy, and growth-oriented environment for all staff. This committee will assess and advocate for staff needs related to professional development, recognition, compensation, benefits, work/life balance, and overall well-being.
The committee will develop recommendations for training and professional development programs; serve as an advocacy resource for departments and workgroups; and administer Staff Senate awards. It will also research, review, and recommend actions on issues affecting staff welfare, including policies, practices, and regulations related to labor and staff relations.
In addition, the Workplace Culture Committee will promote initiatives that support personal growth, organizational success, and a healthy campus environment—one that nurtures a strong sense of well-being in body, mind, and spirit. The committee will work collaboratively with the Human Resources and Health & Wellness departments on shared priorities and perform other duties as deemed appropriate to enhance staff culture and experience.
Members
- Megan Simon (Chair)
- Wendee Erschick
- Azzam Abdur-Rahman
- Jerelyn Moore
- Parisa Erfani