Staff Council
The UVA Engineering School Staff Council is invested in celebrating staff success, fostering and identifying career paths, and empowering staff to be self-advocate
Mission
To communicate with a unified voice, advocate in the interest of staff, inform and collaborate on decision making and build a strong community. The values of the council include respect, communication, and transparency.
Vision
To recognize and celebrate the community of respected, skilled professional staff who are active contributors to the success of the school.
Suggestion Box
Is there a staff issue, or suggestion, you would like to share with the leadership or staff council? Sending feedback via the suggestion box can be done anonymously, or if you would like a response, please indicate this when filling out the form.
People & Committees
Kim Fitzhugh- Biomedical (Parliamentarian)
Gina Talley- Biomedical
Stephanie Swing- Chemical
Ryan Thompson- Chemical
*Michelle Busby- Civil & Environmental (Chair)
*Paul Miller- Civil & Environmental (Committee Liaison)
Debbie Rose- Computer Science
Emily Stacy- Computer Science (Secretary)
Peggy Reed- Dean's Office
Tracy Marshall- Engineering and Society
Vanessa Pace- Engineering and Society
Bryana Amador- Materials Science
Peter Chege- Materials Science (Vice Chair)
Sheridan Kearns- Mechanical & Aerospace
Sydney Witucki- Mechanical & Aerospace
*John Notis- Office of Facilities and Planning
Lee Ann Tyler- Dean's Office
Joan Sipe- Systems & Information (Treasurer)
Jan Sweet- Systems & Information
*Part of the University Staff Senate.
Staff Committees serve outside of the general staff council and currently include Professional Development, School Policy/Legislative, Wellness and Well-Being, and Engagement. If you are interested in joining a committee, fill out the Committee Interest form.
Professional Development (Jennifer Burman lead): This committee is dedicated to fostering an environment of continual learning and career growth for our staff members. This committee supports the development and acquisition of new skills, promotes leadership and professional excellence, and creates tailored opportunities for staff to enhance their expertise and grow within their roles. Whether through workshops, mentorship, or other resources, the committee empowers staff to achieve their personal and professional goals, contributing to the overall success and innovation of the UVA Engineering community.
School Policy/Legislative (Sheridan Kearns lead): This committee is dedicated to providing guidance in the formulation of policies and procedures affecting the working conditions of classified and university staff and to promote staff participation in the SEAS community. This committee supports the development and implementation of policies and procedures for staff to ensure transparency, promote efficiency and accountability. Our role is to advise the SEAS community on policy development and implementation; to review new policy proposals; and to support the policy development process. This committee will serve as a resource for the Dean’s Office and the Engineering Staff Council Executive Committee regarding policies and procedures. We are asking that each committee member dedicate 1-2 hours each month in helping further the goals of the committee.
Wellness and Well-Being Committee (Peter Chege lead): This committee is dedicated to supporting the holistic well-being of staff members, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. We aim to foster an environment where everyone feels empowered to thrive in all aspects of life. Our committee will offer resources and programs focused on stress management, work-life balance, fitness, and spiritual growth, recognizing that a sense of connection and purpose is vital for overall well-being. Through health workshops, wellness programs, and opportunities for reflection, we seek to improve staff satisfaction and productivity. Our initiatives are designed to be inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of our community. Through collaboration and thoughtful planning, we strive to enhance the quality of life through ongoing support and advocacy, ensuring every individual feels valued and supported in their personal and professional lives.
Engagement (Peggy Reed lead): The goal of this committee is to create opportunities for members of the community to connect and get to know each other. Ideas include hosting social events away from the School and University to promote community spirit; and hosting outings which may include families and activities for staff members -- with the goal of at least one event per semester.
Organizations Links
Here are some Organizations we can join for free as UVA employees!