President Glick visits Staff Employees’ Council
By: Michelle Rachal
October 19th, 2006
On the third Tuesday of each month members of the Staff Employees’ Council meet to discuss classified employees’ concerns, suggestions, questions or complaints. All staff are welcome at these meetings which usually include invited guest speakers, speaking on a topic of current interest to classified employees. This month, our speaker was President Glick.
President Glick was a charming guest and was interested in hearing what we had to say. He began by saying that he was there to listen to SEC representatives rather than talk himself. Representatives jumped at the chance to share their questions and concerns.
Bill Borges, representative from Facilities Operations, started the discussion with his request that computers and training be made available to the approximately 11% of staff who don’t have ready access. Since most University communication is carried out electronically, it is imperative that all employees have equal access to technology and training. President Glick readily agreed and will follow up on this important issue.
Valerie Pedroza, representative from the Medical School, asked President Glick about the possibility for tuition fee waivers for family members of classified staff – the same benefit that faculty receive. President Glick mentioned that the difference in benefits awarded staff and faculty could be due to the fact that classified employees are employed by the State of Nevada and faculty are employed by the University. He will check into this matter and get back to us. There are many policies that President Glick is still learning about as new president.
Much discussion took place about morale on campus. Several representatives brought up the fact that the recent faculty morale survey that did not include classified staff. We were reminded that there is currently a Campus Atmosphere Survey being sent out via email to all employees which will allow all staff to share their views and concerns. President Glick explained, however, that although surveys give us a chance to see what faculty and staff need, it’s important that we stop talking and start acting upon some of the good ideas put forth. We need to address these issues “because it’s the right thing to do and that will boost morale” stated President Glick.
Overall the meeting was positive and representatives felt that they had a thoughtful and caring response from our new university president and we thank President Glick for his time and effort to meet with us to discuss issues that are pertinent to classified staff.
Other important SEC news
Don’t forget when you are cheering on your favorite football team (GO Pack!) that you can also support fellow employees by purchasing your refreshments from the SEC booth at home football games. All tips and a percentage of proceeds go to the staff development fund which helps classified staff pay for training and education costs. The booth is manned by volunteer SEC representatives.
Next meeting
Plan to join your SEC representatives at our next meeting on Tuesday, November 21st at 2 – 4 p.m. in the Journalism Building, Room 304. Check our website for more information.
Michelle Rachal, Staff Employees’ Council public relations director, can be reached at rachal@unr.edu.
