Join Staff Senate

Individuals wishing to be considered for the Staff Senate must have the permission of their direct supervisor. Supervisor approval is required before any SHRA, EHRA non-faculty, employee can be placed on the ballot. After the closing date of nominations, the Department of Human Resources will certify the eligibility of the nominees. Nominees will then be notified and required to accept/decline, along with obtaining supervisor approval. Approved nominees will then be placed on the ballot for their respective division.

Become a Senator

Time Commitment for a Senator

The overall time commitment of a Staff Senator can vary, but being an effective Senator often involves a commitment of several hours per month, including meeting attendance, committee involvement, and constituent engagement.

It’s essential for Senators to balance these responsibilities with their regular job duties and personal commitments. A typical Senator’s time commitments may look like

• Staff Senate Full Body Meetings: 2 hours/month (required)
• Staff Senate Committee Meetings: 1-2 hours/month (required)
• Voluntary Service Activities: 3-4 hours/month (depending on availability)
• Senator Onboarding: 2 hours in July (required)

Other ways to get involved

Due to the overall time commitment expectations for Senators, we know not everyone can serve in that capacity, but we do still offer many other options for you to be a part of our initiatives and events.

• Attend a meeting. Staff Senate meetings are open to everyone, not just Senators.
• Participate in an engagement project.
• Use the anonymous Suggestion Box if you have ideas, questions, or concerns you would like the Staff Senate to consider.
• Nominate a staff member for a “Staff Star,” if you have noticed someone going above and beyond.