Dear UNL Staff Colleagues,
As we reach the midpoint of the academic year, I want to share an update from the UNL Staff Senate. Even in a time of organizational transition, our purpose remains steady: to elevate staff voices, strengthen the staff experience, and champion the well being of every member of our community.
During our Executive Committee midyear retreat, we reviewed our progress and identified priorities for the next six months. One of our top goals is to continue promoting the value of service and highlighting Staff Senate as a meaningful professional development opportunity—while also celebrating the remarkable staff members who make UNL such a special place.
A strong campus culture is built by people who show up every day with care, compassion, and pride. One shining example is our own Staff Senator Claudia Wheeler, recently featured for the warmth and community she brings to the East Union Dining Center. Her story is a powerful reminder of the impact staff have in creating a welcoming, supportive environment for our Huskers.
Read the feature here:
Wheeler makes dining hall home for Huskers.
Another outstanding example is UNLPD dispatcher Adam Santee, who was recently highlighted for the calm, clarity, and empathy he brings to a role that keeps our campus safe and supported every day. His story shines a light on the essential behind the scenes work that ensures our university runs smoothly.
Read the feature here:
Santee found his flow with UNLPD dispatch team.”
Stories like Claudia’s and Adams’s remind us that excellence exists in every corner of our institution—not only in visible leadership roles, but also in the countless quiet actions that create a caring, connected campus community.
I also want to offer a heartfelt congratulations to our past Staff Senate President and Executive Advisor, Jordan Gonzales, on his appointment as Chief of Staff to Interim Chancellor Kathy Ankerson”. Jordan has been an extraordinary leader for Staff Senate, and his impact continues to be felt across campus.
During his presidency, Jordan launched the Task Force on Workplace Culture and Engagement, a two year initiative dedicated to improving the workplace experience for university employees. His collaborative leadership, deep institutional knowledge, and unwavering commitment to staff well being helped elevate the visibility and influence of Staff Senate during a period of significant change. We are incredibly proud to see Jordan step into this important role.
Every day, staff members like Claudia, Adam, and Jordan reflect the dedication, humanity, and excellence that keep our university strong. They—and so many others across campus—illustrate the meaningful contributions staff make to the life of our institution.
Staff Senate remains committed to fostering a workplace that values your contributions, supports your growth, and ensures that every person—and every interaction—truly matters.
More details at: https://staffsenate.unl.edu/