Greetings, UNL Staff,
As spring settles in on our campus and we move toward the close of another academic year, I find myself reflecting—not just on the work of this semester or academic year, but on the collective growth we have experienced together during my time as president of the UNL Staff Senate. This will be my final newsletter article in this role, and it feels right to pause, take stock and say thank you.
In agriculture, growth doesn’t happen all at once. It requires preparation, patience, care and a belief in what is being cultivated. Over the past year, I have seen those same principles at work across our staff community. Together, we have continued to strengthen the foundation of the Staff Senate, deepen our connections with campus partners, and elevate the role of staff voices in meaningful ways. Much of this work has been stead, often unseen, but essential - building systems and relationships that will support staff well beyond a single season.
This year, I am proud of what we have accomplished and grown. We focused on strengthening relationships within our districts through the work of our District Leads and district representatives, intentionally cultivating connection through consistent, individual engagement. This work helped foster a sense of belonging and ensured staff felt seen, heard and connected to the Staff Senate. Like any sustained effort, this progress required tending to relationships, returning to conversations over time and trusting that steady attention would yield meaningful results.
We continued to advocate for staff inclusion in shared governance and campus decision making. Staff Senate representation in the APC budget process, leadership search committees, and the Parking Advisory Committee ensured staff perspectives were both heard and valued. Through Senate hosted listening sessions and the Our Bold Path Forward roundtable discussions, staff were invited into meaningful conversations about UNL’s evolving policy reviews and strategic direction.
We also worked intentionally to elevate the role of Staff Senate and the visibility of staff through relationship building with university leadership. By showing up in important spaces, such as Board of Regents meetings and UNL’s Charter Day celebration, we helped reinforce that staff voices belong at every table. In parallel, we celebrated the incredible work of staff through features like the One of U series, highlighting the dedication, expertise and impact of staff across campus. Together, these efforts strengthened connections, built trust and reinforced the importance of showing up, consistently and visibly, for the long term health of the institution.
Ultimately, this progress reflects staff across campus who leaned in as senators, committee members, partners and advocates. Their care, integrity and commitment, often demonstrated behind the scenes, made a real difference. Your contributions are seen, valued and appreciated.
This is also a moment to pause and acknowledge the significant transitions our staff community has faced. Over the past year, many colleagues have left the university—some through difficult circumstances, others through personal or professional choice. Each departure has an impact, both in the loss of valued colleagues and in the added weight carried by those who remain. Honoring these moments means recognizing that change is not just organizational, it is deeply personal.
At the same time, we recognize both those who are new to UNL and those who continue to choose this institution year after year. New colleagues bring fresh perspective, energy and possibility, while long serving staff provide continuity, wisdom and deep institutional knowledge. Each decision to make UNL your employer matters, and our community is stronger because of it.
Spring is a season of optimism, and I feel that optimism. Change is happening; new leadership, new ideas, new growth taking root. Change can be challenging, but it also creates opportunity. Like any good growing season, there is uncertainty alongside hope. What gives me confidence is the dedication of UNL staff and the ways we continue to adapt, support one another and move forward together.
As I conclude my term as president, I want to express my sincere gratitude. Serving in this role has been an honor and a privilege. I have learned so much from my fellow senators and from staff across campus. Your willingness to engage, to speak up and to care deeply about this institution has shaped my experience and strengthened my belief in the power of our collective voice.
As I look ahead, I am excited about the next set of leaders and the continued growth of the Staff Senate. I encourage you to stay connected; reach out to your district representatives, share your ideas and concerns and celebrate the work happening around you. The seeds we plant today will shape the seasons ahead.
Thank you for all that you do for UNL and thank you for allowing me the opportunity to serve.
With much appreciation,
Jessie Brophy
President, UNL Staff Senate
More details at: https://staffsenate.unl.edu/