The Strong Voices of the Staff Council

On the University of Southern Indiana's campus, there are three government agencies that work on behalf of the three employee groups-Administrative Senate, Faculty Senate and Staff Council. Each not only works for the employees, but also for all of the University.

In the spring, one of the normal activities that took place on campus despite the COVID-19 restrictions still in place, was the annual elections of all three government groups. When all the votes were tallied, the Staff Council welcomed 13 new representatives, congratulated six returning reps and thanked 12 employees for their time, efforts and dedication to the council.

Composed of 20 individuals from support staff across the USI campus, Staff Council was formed in the Fall of 1989. The governing body works to encourage staff involvement in University matters as well as encouraging the continued betterment of the work environment and work life of USI employees. It also upholds and strengthens the mission of the University.

"Staff Council serves as an advocate to the campus administration as well as supporting  the USI community with various drives for Archie's Food Closet and The Giving Tree," says James Wethington, Senior Library Assistant at the David L. Rice Library and newly elected representative to the organization. "In addition, Staff Council gives all staff members from across campus an opportunity to voice their concerns with a united front."

It provides a streamlined approach for members of USI's staff to have their voices heard in a number of matters that concern them, others and the University community as a whole, adds Jessica Adler, Senior Administrative Associate in Finance and Administration and another newly elected Staff Council member. "At a higher learning institution, our voice is invaluable. Staff Council is a committee that cares, and it feels good knowing what we discuss can ultimately make a difference," she says.

Being a part of that voice is a big reason many of the newly elected members ran for a seat on the council. But there's more to it than that-there's also opportunity to learn more about fellow employees.

"I wanted to be a part of Staff Council because I wanted to be a part of the University outside of my job and help make a difference," says Jamie Curry, Senior Administrative Assistant in Pott College of Science, Engineering, and Education and a new rep. "I am looking forward to learning new things, meeting new people and really all that goes into being a part of the service."

"The main reason I wanted to join the Staff Council is to encourage the best possible work environment for the staff at USI," adds Terri Kendall, Custodial Worker in Facility Operations and Planning. "Right now, I am mostly looking forward to learning more about what exactly the Staff Council does and how it works."

All have goals and aspirations. Assessing benefits, supporting fellow employees, addressing concerns and exploring new ideas, celebrating the work of USI staff and much more. Though their insight and ideas are new, the heart of the goals are not. Those returning  to continue service with the Staff Council echo similar sentiments as they begin new terms or finish out current ones.

"It's been enjoyable getting to know more staff from across campus," says Shawn Williams, Senior Administrative Assistant for Alumni Relations and Volunteer USI and a returning Staff Council representative. "It has helped me learn who I need to contact about certain things or who might know whom to contact. It has been great just getting to know more about people and their backgrounds, and how they came to USI."

"I've had so much fun working with the group," adds Rhonda Woolsey, incoming Staff Council Chair and Special Events Supervisor for Conference Services. "It is truly a caring group of people."

Several past and continuing projects hold a special place in the hearts and minds of Staff Council members who have completed their terms. "The Giving Tree-a long-standing tradition and an annual outreach is an example of the caring that is the culture of USI. Gifts for families in need, and during COVID, and the establishment of a USI Foundation Fund for this purpose, lets us help students and colleagues who are having a difficult time providing a happy holiday for their families," says Kathy Oeth, Circulation Manager at the David L. Rice Library.

Oeth also points to her service on the economic benefits committee during her five years on the council as something she remains proud of.

"It has been my pleasure to be a sounding board and resource for support staff who had concerns for needed guidance toward a better understanding of their rights and benefits," she says.

Stephanie Fifer, Employer Engagement Coordinator at Career Services and Internships and another outgoing Staff Council rep, is proud of bringing employees together through various activities.

"My favorite activity is the employee picnic," says Fifer. "This year and last looked different, but most years it's a great way to reconnect with coworkers from across campus."

As the University moves toward reopening for the Fall 2021 semester, representatives look forward to continuing the positive contributions of the Staff Council, welcoming employees back to a bit of normalcy after COVID-19 restrictions and helping the University move forward. And remembering the core of the mission of the government agency.

"The staff at USI has a right to feel appreciated, have their voices heard and feel supported. That's the job of Staff Council," says new representative Tammy Jewell, Senior Library Assistant at the David L. Rice Library. "If anyone has a concern or idea, I want them to know I will always be open to taking their ideas back to the table and make sure they are given appropriate deliberation."

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Members of the Staff Council urge support staff employee who are interested in becoming involved in the organization to reach out! Volunteers are always welcome. To find out more  about Staff Council or how to become involved, visit usi.edu/staffcouncil.

2021-2023 Staff Council Membership:

Rhonda Woolsey, Chair
Shawn Williams, Vice Chair
Pam Kobe, Secretary

Employee Benefits & Communication Committee (standing committee)

Dawn Paris, Chair
Gloria Butz
Sherri Herriott
Tammy Jewell
Terri Kendall
Tyler Rapp
James Wethington 

Employee Relations Committee (standing committee)

Jamie Curry, Chair
Jessica Adler
Cindy Braker
Amanda Mitchell
Rhonda Moore
Greg Orth
Kimberly Tanner
Charlie Walton
Stephanie Wildeman