Committees and Liaisons

This committee works with the President's Office to facilitate the nomination process and review all nominations for the Board of Regents Staff Awards from UMB.

Chairs: Allison Deitz, Kelly Sikorski 

Members: Allison Deitz, Kelly Sikorski, Reese Spindle, Heather Terech, Kelly Ward, Forjet Williams

The Communications Committee creates and maintains communications for the Staff Senate. We work to establish and increase awareness of the Staff Senate's role to speak out for and impact staff-related concerns and issues. The channels we have established include: the monthly Staff Senate Source newsletter, producing physical and digital marketing materials, tabling at fairs, maintaining a social media presence, and contributing to The Elm and Elm Calendar.

Chair: Fiama Romero

Members: Michelle Besser, Tom Hockensmith, Trisha Nkenge, Fiama Romero, Christina Way

The Community Outreach Committee contributes to and coordinates events related to improving the welfare of individuals in the local Baltimore community, including fundraising for local charities or volunteer work. We liaise with the UMB Community Engagement Center for events, activities, and important information. Our outreach efforts include collecting school supplies for local schools and toiletries and toys for homeless shelters.

Chair: Taylor DeBoer

Members: Amanda Barnes, Sabrina Coppage, Taylor DeBoer, Aaron Graham

The mission of the Council of University System Staff (CUSS) is to provide a voice for staff and employee concerns in reference to basic decisions that affect the welfare of the University System of Maryland (USM), its constituent institutions, and its employees. CUSS functions in an informed advisory role in administrative areas and in the functional support aspects of academic matters.

Terms begin in August.

Chair: Vivian Hill-Lawson

Members: Vivian Hill-Lawson, Anthony Weldon Jr., Lei Zhang

The Policy/Legislation Committee oversees the review of Staff Senate bylaws to make sure they are consistent to Robert's Rules of Order and serve the best needs of the Staff Senate as an organization. Responsible for tracking all bills, proposals within the state or federal government that may impact staff of UMB. Serve or liaise with UMB CUSS representatives and align priorities across USM and UMB specifically.

Chair: Joe Howarth

Members: Ummay Ammara, Greg Brightbill, Anita Bryant, Justin Codd, Joe Howarth, Jenna Maher, Nia Speaks

Address issues that affect staff and their day-to-day life at UMB, such as affordable day care, leave donation, professional development, timekeeping, and staff recognition. Participate in University-wide committees as representatives of the Staff Senate and all staff. Assess and recommend opportunities for advancement with Campus Climate Survey and others. Plan, execute, and promote Staff Senate activities across campus, including meet-and-greets, network activities, and professional development opportunities.

Co-Chairs: Vivian Hill-Lawson, Ray Stolle

Members: Stephanie Brandal, Briana Clark, Vivian Hill-Lawson, Ray Stolle, Lei Zhang