Meet the 2023-2024 Nominees
The following staff have been nominated to represent your job category (exempt or non-exempt) during the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Please take a few minutes to learn more about each candidate through their biographies below.
Elections will open on April 24th and will close on May 1st. To cast your vote Login to myWSU and locate the link in the Faculty/Staff tab in the Employee Toolbox, "University Staff Senate 2023 Election."
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Ph.D.
Technology Analyst
Office of Special Programs
Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Ph.D. is serving as a Technology Analyst with the Office of Special
Programs (OSP) at Wichita State University (WSU). In his role, he provides ongoing
systems support in related to IT, and used by staff and program participants. Dr.
Abdulaziz journey with OSP goes back to 2010. He worked for Veterans Upward Bound
and Kansas Kids @ GEAR UP. Abdulaziz earned his Ph.D. in industrial engineering from
WSU in spring 2022.
Krissy Archambeau
Angela Blackerby
I have been the Aerospace Engineering Student Academic Success Advisor since 2017, which means I’m going on six years at WSU. I help support enrollment, retention, and recruiting of approximately 400 Aerospace Engineering undergraduate students, and I truly love working with students. I’m interested in serving on Staff Senate because in my daily job I advocate for students, and I would like to stretch that skillset into advocating for staff. I hope to make a positive change for staff members, make more University connections, and learn more about Wichita State in the process of being a Senator.
Katie Brady
I am Katie Brady, I work in the College of Engineering as the Student Engagement Coordinator for the Engineering Student Success Center. I have been at Wichita State since July of 2022. In my short time here I have really enjoyed not just the beauty of campus but the passionate and caring people who work here. I hope to serve by sharing my perspectives and expertise as well as my time. As a newer employee on campus I feel I have a different experiences to pull from when thinking about policies and procedures relating to Staff and look forward to learning from others. I feel honored to be nominated and look forward to serving.
Lisa Clancy
Hello, my name is Lisa Clancy, Director Business & Finance for the College of Health
Professions. I am honored to have been nominated for the UP Senate for this upcoming
year. I have been part of the WSU family since 2012. I started my journey in the
department of Communication Science & Disorders in the College of Health Professions
before becoming the Business Manager for the College in 2014 then Director of Business
& Finance in 2023.
I had the pleasure of serving you as your UP Senator, At Large in 2019-2020, and UP
Senator in 2022-2023, representing your rights and giving you a strong voice at the
university.
My service to the University has included multiple committees both in and outside
of governance structures and I am very familiar with the strengths and challenges
of staff senate governance. I am currently on the Board of Directors for the Campus
Credit Union and a member of the President’s Budget Advisory Council. I would like
to continue my service on the Senate to act as a conduit through which staff can share
thoughts and concerns, as well as advocate for staff.
My goals for the immediate future as a Staff Senate representative will be to understand
and advocate for the unique interests of staff and contribute to effective and equitable
stewardship of our recourses in ways that do not impose burdens on our staff. I want
to help with crucial and challenging work within the diversity, equity, inclusion
that is so necessary for the future of WSU.
This year the Senate has been very involved with the challenges of the Market Base
Compensation plan. My goal is to make sure there is transparency during this journey
and that we as staff members are informed and up to date on the process moving forward.
As stated previously, I would be honored to represent you and continue to follow through
on present and upcoming progress of the Senate on your behalf. Should you have any
questions or would like to discuss my interest in serving, please feel free to contact
me.
Whitney Crager
Hi! My name is Whitney Crager and I am so excited to be running for Staff Senate.
I am an Institutional Research Analyst in the Office of Planning and Analysis, as
well as the Qualtrics Administrator for the University. I am a graduate of the College
of Health Professions and am coming up on my 5-year anniversary as an employee.
Involvement in community is very important to me; I’d love to serve as a representative
voice and help impact change at the University. In my current role I collaborate with
almost every department on campus, as well as with students. I am always looking for
ways to improve processes and find solutions that work for everyone. I believe this
makes me a great candidate.
Thanks for your consideration for Staff Senate!
Michelle Dehaven
Michelle DeHaven graduated from WSU with a BA in Sociology and a Masters in Public Administration. After graduation, Michelle stayed on with the Hugo Wall School of Public Affairs before transitioning to the Environmental Finance Center. She works on a variety of environmental topics to help communities in Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, and Missouri and across the United States build capacity to address environmental challenges, specifically related to environmental justice challenges.
I am grateful to be nominated to serve on the Staff Senate. I have been working at WSU for 4 years and am excited to continue working with the university to advocate for staff and their intrinsic role at WSU. I currently serve on the WSU Sustainability Research Committee, American Water Works Association (both national and state chapters), the board of ICT Food Rescue, and the board of GLSEN.
Gage Dowling
Hello, my name is Gage Dowling, and I work with Veterans Upward Bound as a Program Specialist. I have worked at Wichita State University for 5 months; I have only been here a short time but I have loved every minute and definitely see my future here. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in History from Charleston Southern University, my Masters in Management from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, and begin my Doctorate in Educational Leadership at WSU this summer. I have worked in Housing and Residence Life, Academic Advising, Student Success, and admissions.
I am interested in serving so that I can help out the WSU community. If our staff is better taken care of, so are our students. I hope to get better sick and personal leave accrual rates, better pay for staff, and I hope to make the two week winter shut down a paid holiday or at least improve it. Other goals include $5 staff Fridays in Shocker Dining, more discounts around town and on campus, free entry to sporting events, and overall give more voice to staff members. Above all, I want to serve the WSU community for a better future for us, the students, and the university. I look forward to working with each and everyone of you!
Megan Ewert
Hello! My name is Megan Ewert and I have been a Shocker since January 2019, starting in the School of Art, Design and Creative Industries as an Administrative Assistant before being promoted to an Administrative Specialist. During this time, I also functioned as a graduate critic and thesis committee member and taught figure drawing and painting. I’m currently the Business Manager in the College of Fine Arts Dean’s office, this change occurring during what I refer to as “the great admin shuffle of 2022.” As a result of that high turnover of personnel, it is more important than ever to cultivate a sense of community amongst staff and maintain our commitment to committee-based service to not only gain more information regarding campus internal workings, but to learn about larger issues that require targeted feedback, and participate in the process of improving the quality of our work environment. I hope to learn more about issues important to staff across campus and serve my fellow staff members in advocating for desirable initiatives.
Nathan Huerter
Hello, my name is Nathan Huerter. I am honored to have received a nomination for Staff Senate. I am new to Wichita State University. I joined the Human Resources Department in October 2022 as a Business Technology Analyst and have enjoyed that position as well as venturing out to explore the campus.
I am a graduate of Kansas State University from the College of Business Administration. In addition to graduating with a Bachelor of Science in both General Management and Human Resource Management, I minored in Leadership Studies. Outside of work, I am a volunteer with the Boy Scouts of America – Quivira Council as both a District Committee Member developing day camp opportunities for Wichita youth and serving as a unit leader for a local Cub Scout Pack.
While new to Wichita State, I hope to perpetuate the positive culture and welcoming that I have felt, as well as bring a fresh perspective to the Staff Senate.
Alysa Janner
I have worked for Wichita State University since 2016 and most recently transitioned to Academic Advisor for the College of Fine Arts, advising for the students in the School of Music. I studied music as an undergraduate, so I truly feel like I have found my purpose in this role! Through my time at WSU I have served as Chair of the Social Committee for the Office of Financial Aid, I have collaborated with many departments for the purposes of event planning in the South GEAR UP grant program, and I have given so many presentations I’ve truly lost count! My passion is helping people, and serving the community at WSU fuels that drive, which is part of why I am interested in joining the University Staff Senate. I was able to fill in a vacated seat for the last half the 2022-2023 year when a Senator needed to move on, and it has only furthered my passion for helping the staff at WSU!
Nancy Krehbiel
I’ve worked at the university full-time for 12 years. I’m interested in serving on the senate to work with other senators to advance common concerns of the broader staff community. In this position, I hope to work collaboratively with stakeholders on campus to find common-sense solutions and to define action-items to promote positive change. No one needs another meeting that doesn’t lead to real change, myself included!
Kimberly Kufahl
Hi! I am Kim Kufahl. I have worked at Wichita State University for 15 years! I work in the Shocker Career Accelerator as the Assistant Director of Marketing & Communication. I love telling the stories of our Wichita State students and how they have achieved career success through the help of our office.
As someone deeply committed to the well-being and success of our university community, I am excited to express my interest in serving on the University Staff Senate. I believe this position would provide me with a valuable opportunity to contribute to meaningful conversations about the future of our institution and to advocate for the needs and concerns of staff members like myself.
I am passionate about supporting professional development opportunities for staff members. I believe that investing in our staff's skills and knowledge can help drive innovation and improve the overall quality of our services and operations.
I am eager to contribute my time, energy, and expertise to the Staff Senate and work collaboratively with my colleagues to advance the interests of staff members and the university. I humbly ask for your vote.
Megan Lewis
Name, Department, Position
Megan Lewis, Student Affairs Staff Engagement and ShockerStrengths Office, Assistant
Director of Staff Engagement
Time at WSU
I started working full-time at Wichita State in January 2021 in the Housing & Residence
Life office, and moved to Student Affairs in Summer 2021.
Interest in Serving
I'm interested in serving on Staff Senate because I am energized when finding new
and innovative ways to approach the situations that face us across campus. In my current
role, I work with departments from across student affairs and enjoy connecting with
individuals to hear feedback. I understand that change and growing pains are a natural
occurrence in any organizational culture and believe we all have the capability to
manage and grow through them.
What I Hope to Accomplish
In this role, I would hope to accomplish creating more cohesion, consistency, and
communication across campus, and find ways that we can better collaborate with divisional
partners different from our own. I also hope to push and create even more training
and professional development opportunities for staff with focuses in leadership, diversity,
equity and inclusion, and evolving technologies.
Nathan Lewis
My name is Nathan Lewis and I work for Housing and Residence Life as the Assistant Director of Desk Operations. I have worked for Wichita State University for about a year and a half, starting my tenure at the Office of the Registrar. I am interested in serving as a member of Staff Senate because I feel like I have a unique outlook having served in both Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. I also feel like my role, which includes overseeing full-time staff, graduate student staff, and undergraduate student staff offers me a good perspective when it comes to understanding the needs of staff with a variety of team compositions. As a member of Staff Senate, I would hope to be a conduit to communicate and defend staff needs across campus. I feel like I am comfortable presenting new or uncomfortable ideas and am willing to defend ideas I believe in regardless of larger group perceptions.
Courtney Lockhart
I am Courtney Lockhart, a Social Services Coordinator & Advocate for the CARE Team currently serving all students in the Colleges of Applied Studies, Fine Arts and Health Professions.
I have worked at Wichita State University since September 2003, both as a student and professional staff member.
I am looking to represent the CARE Team on the University Staff Senate, bringing perspective from my daily work, and becoming more involved in matters pertaining to the greater university and its staff.
In my two-year term, I hope to grow in knowledge and ability in serving university staff. I also hope to gain great insight into the matters that are important to this campus as well as become an active component in the change that is to take place, across the campus and out in the community, in the years to come.
Mercedes Lubbers-Payne
Name, Department, Position
Mercedes Lubbers – Student Success & Retention Specialist with the Business Student
Success Center
Time at WSU
I have worked for WSU in an official capacity for 5 years and have close to ten years
if we count student assistant and writing center specialist positions!
Interest in Serving
Advocacy and transparency are some of the values I hold most important. I believe
that as a senator I would be able to further advocate for staff issues and concerns,
while also being a connective individual to help create interdisciplinary relationships
across staff on campus.
What I Hope to Accomplish
I hope to be a senator that everyone feels they can talk with and who makes everyone
feel welcomed and important. I would like to be able to advocate for our staff members
and be involved in understanding relevant changes that impact staff such as the compensation
restructuring that is taking place currently and over the next several years.
Emily Martin
Emily Martin, Parking Manager in Parking Services; I’ve been at the university for almost 11 years. I was a student assistant on campus when I was in school, an administrative officer for several years and now Parking Manager. It’s been interesting to not only see how things work at each level I’ve been at, but to watch the university grow and evolve over the last several years. During my time at WSU I’ve served on the Alternative Service Committee, Council of University Women and coordinated several events through Discover WSU. I hope to bring mindfulness to the table as we continue to move Shocker Nation forward.
Sarah Mathews
My name is Sarah Mathews, and I am the Manager for Career Development in the Shocker Career Accelerator. I graduated from WSU with a M.Ed. in Sport Management in 2014 and I have been working at Wichita State for almost 10 years. I started my career in the Athletic Department in Student Services and Compliance, where I worked for 9 years. Recently, I transitioned to the Shocker Career Accelerator, and I oversee the Career Ready Team. Our team is focused on teaching students the skills to navigate their career journey and to support faculty integrating career readiness into their classroom.
I am interested in participating in the Staff Senate because it allows me to contribute to the decision-making process on matters that affect the university’s staff. Additionally, I look forward to networking with colleagues across departments and helping shape the university’s culture and policies.
Jacob Mendez
Name, Department, Position
Jacob Mendez, College of Engineering, Director of Student Engagement and Career Readiness
Time at WSU
5 Years
Interest in Serving
I am interested in serving on the Staff Senate to spend time focusing on advocating
for the needs of my fellow staff members. I am very passionate about WSU and love
working for this institution. Therefore, in this position, I want to focus on helping
others feel comfortable to share their opinions. Also, I want to advocate for those
who are in a place where they do not feel heard. Every staff member on this campus
is important and I want to be the voice of those who cannot speak up.
What I Hope to Accomplish
My main goal is to find new and innovative ways to get feedback from my peers that
will allow me to share factual information to the staff senate to help inform decisions
while also advocating for others.
Cheryl Miller
I am the senior assistant dean for Fairmount College and serve as the point of contact for college strategic communication, public relations, college-wide events, staff concerns, and operations. I also serve as college commencement coordinator, and coordinate major college events such as Hall of Fame. I started at Wichita State in 1994 as coordinator of orientation, which was then in student affairs, and began reporting to the Fairmount College dean’s office in 1998. I previously served on the Unclassified Professional Senate and would use this term to communicate concerns I hear from college staff as well as participate in discussions that would improve our work environment.
Kimberly Moore
Karolina Mosa
Karolina Mosa - Associate Director
Campus Recreation (Heskett Center)
My life changing journey at Wichita State University started back in January of 2007 when I traveled from Poland to be a part of the WSU Track and Field Team. It didn’t take me long to immerse myself into Wichita and University life and traditions. I started my career at the Heskett Center when I was a Sophomore and things just started to line up for me and WSU became my home away from home. During this journey, I have taken on many roles and responsibilities and I have always been proud to be a part of WSU family.
In my current role as an Associate Director I oversee the day to day operations of the Heskett Center. I manage the development, implementation, coordination and supervision of the student staff that ranges from 35-40 students each semester. I’m also responsible for coordinating Special Events and rental reservations. One of my favorite roles is being the Race Director for the Annual 5k Pumpkin Run at WSU. I’m also an adjunct instructor and teach an academic class - Weight Training, for the department of Human Performance Studies.
Collaborations with other departments and colleagues across campus as well as serving on multiple committees to support and enrich student life is what I enjoy the most. Being part of the Staff Senate would allow to deepen my engagement at WSU campus, serve as an advocate for all staff and continue to promote transparency in all processes and decision making as introduced by the senior management/administration. I want to be challenged, and find alternative solutions to these challenges.
I’m currently serving on a LGBTQA+ Committee and Task Force, Student Affairs Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee, and Youth Outreach Council.
I graduated from Wichita State University in 2013 with Masters of Education in Sport Management.
Kendra Nguyen
Hello! My name is Kendra Nguyen (she/her). I am a Public Health Program Specialist for the WSU Community Engagement Institute Center for Public Health Initiatives. I graduated from Wichita State University with a bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2007 and absolutely loved being a Shocker. Since graduating, I continued to stay involved with WSU in various capacities as a volunteer for many organizations on campus before returning in 2017 and joining the Shocker family as a staff member. From my previous experiences working in the public sector, I have grown a passion for community involvement by staying informed and encouraging and providing input from diverse backgrounds and experiences. I am honored to be nominated for a senate seat once again and believe that this would be an excellent opportunity to continue my personal passion for involvement and input to the University Staff Senate and WSU community.
Naquela Pack
My name is Naquela Pack and I am the Director of Engagement for the Office of Engagement. I have been in this position since its inception December 2020. I intentionally think about ways to encourage collaboration and be a better neighborhood within Shocker Neighborhood. I am interested and eager to continue serving in the Staff Senate to be a voice for my colleagues and provide representation. I hope to continue to build on the existing accomplishments around professional development and service along with other priority areas.
Lyndsay Pletcher
Name, Department, Position
My name is Lyndsay Pletcher, I am a University Budget Analyst in the Office of Finance
and Administration.
Time at WSU
I have worked in my current role in the Budget Office for about a year and a half,
and I worked in Human Resources for around 5 years before that transition, so I have
worked here at WSU for almost 7 years total.
Interest in Serving
I have been a part of Senate meetings before as a community member and to provide
supportive information on campus-wide projects, etc. and I have always been interested
in the University Staff Senate process. I love the idea that each area of the University
is represented and am excited at the opportunity to help represent my direct peers.
I am proud that I have built great relationships across campus and want to continue
to grow those relationships through service to others, while using my knowledge of
policies and procedures to continue to help make this campus a great place to work.
What I Hope to Accomplish
I want to focus on making contributions towards building staff morale. We have so
much talent in the Staff here on campus, and so many unique opportunities that industry
can’t match and I want to help highlight those strengths, and do what I can to help
make the culture more vibrant. I think it is important to always keep in mind that
we can’t make everybody happy all the time, but I do believe that through this platform,
I could learn more about how our Staff morale can grow and help spread any progress
opportunities that I can!
Teri Robertson
I’ve worked at WSU for 5 years and have gained valuable experience in finance and day-to-day operations to connect students with employers. I’m passionate about representing and advocating for the interests of all staff members. I strive to create a positive and inclusive work environment where staff feel valued and supported and I would like the opportunity to expand that drive across campus.
Kennedy Rogers
Hello! My name is Kennedy Rogers and I serve as the Director of ShockerStrengths and Staff Engagement within the Division of Student Affairs. I have been at WSU since 2017 when our family relocated here. One of my favorite elements of my role is connecting students to their talents and collaborating with campus partners to support and advocate for students academically and personally as they navigate their Shocker experience. Additionally, I get to work with Student Affairs staff and student employees through professional development and employee engagement.
As I am nearing the end of my current term on Staff Senate where I served my first year as the Secretary as well a senator; I am honored to have been nominated to continue to serve on senate. During my time on senate, I have been fortunate to serve on various committees such as professional development, elections, and the executive team. I am passionate about staff engagement through advocacy and look forward to the opportunity to continue serving.
Jeffrey Severin
Name, Department, Position
Jeff Severin, Environmental Finance Center, Program Manager
Time at WSU
I have worked at WSU since February 2021.
Interest in Serving
I joined the Environmental Finance Center in 2021 as a fully remote employee working
from Lawrence, KS. With infrequent visits to Wichita, and in a role that is very external
– serving communities throughout Iowa, Kansas, Missouri and Nebraska – it can be difficult
to feel connected to the University or feel well-represented in Staff Senate. As opportunities
for remote work, flexible schedules, and external engagement persist, I imagine there
are other staff that share my experience.
What I Hope to Accomplish
Although I have been at WSU for just over 2 years, I have worked in higher education
for 19 years in roles that bridged academics, administration, operations, student
affairs, and community engagement. I also served on staff senate at a previous institution,
including 4 years as the Diversity and Inclusion Committee Co-chair, a position that
served on the Staff Senate Executive Committee. As your senator, I would draw on this
experience, represent the perspective of staff working outside of the more traditional
on-campus job, and encourage Senate to explore opportunities that create stronger
connections for remote and externally-focused employees.
Rani Somers
“Hi friends! My name is Rani and I am excited to have been nominated to represent the staff of Wichita State on the University Staff Senate. I came to WSU in 2017 from Illinois. I started out on campus as the Coordinator of Fraternity and Sorority Life within the office of Student Involvement (now Student Engagement, Advocacy and Leadership). In January 2022, I moved from Student Affairs to Academic Affairs to serve as the Recruitment Coordinator for the Barton School of Business. In my role, I recruit prospective students for our undergraduate programs, plan and execute recruitment events and initiatives, advise the Barton Business Ambassadors and work with our scholarships.
When I first moved to Wichita, I was anticipating being here for a couple of years to get some experience and then move back closer to home. After almost six years, I am still here! I love Wichita and WSU. I am currently enrolled as a graduate student in our Masters of Human Resource Management and I am loving learning about this new field that I am so passionate about. Outside of work, I love to have game nights with my friends, enjoy one of the many outdoor patios across the city, or read a new book. But my absolute favorite role is being “Aunt Rani” to my three amazing nephews.
I feel that this position would be a great way to be a part of the “bigger picture”
of the university and to provide a voice for staff members across the campus. I have
served in two very different roles on campus and I have learned so much about our
staff culture at WSU. I hope to serve as a positive voice and advocate for the staff
experience. Go Shocks!”
Shelly Tittel
Hello! My name is Shelly Tittel, Manager of Application Systems in Information Technology Services. I am honored to be nominated for the University Staff Senate for this upcoming year. I have been with Wichita State University for 22 years. I started my career with WSU in Information Technology Services in 1992 as an Application Developer supporting the Registrar’s Office, Admissions and Graduate School. I left the University in 2002 and worked at Coleman, Textron and High Touch. I returned to Wichita State University in 2011 as a Senior Systems Analyst supporting Finance, Human Resources and Payroll. I transitioned into the Manager of Application Systems position in 2017 supporting Finance, Human Resources and Payroll.
I am interested in serving on the University Staff Senate to learn more about current issues Staff at WSU are facing and be involved with finding resolutions to these issues. Being part of the University Staff Senate would allow me to build peer relationships and better understand the policies and procedures that govern staff on campus. I feel it is important to listen to staff on campus and be their voice to bring concerns and issues in front of the Staff Senate.
Rachel Tuck
Name, Department, Position
Rachel Tuck, Shocker Rowing/Campus Recreation, Assistant Coach
Time at WSU
I started working for the University as a student in Summer 2011 and have been a
full time employee since Summer 2015.
Interest in Serving
I have appreciated my time as a current senator of Staff Senate and believe that I
have more to learn and contribute to the group and the constituents I represent.
What you hope to accomplish
I hope to represent and speak on behalf of my peers to continue to push the envelope
and make Wichita State an attractive and enjoyable place to work for employees.
Hannah Vanorsby
My name is Hannah Vanorsby and I have worked for Wichita State University since March of 2021 in OneStop Student Services as a First-Year Advisor for the College of Health Professions. My undergraduate education focused on Public Health with a B.S. in Kinesiology for Kansas State University. After earning my bachelor's degree, I pursued a Master of Science in Education in Health Education and the Psychology of Physical Activity where I found my passion for higher education. I have experience at several higher education institutions including the University of Kansas, Southwestern College – Professional Studies, and Wichita State University. I have served on multiple committees throughout my higher education career and look forward to bringing a unique perspective to the staff senate if selected to serve. I hope to support the staff at Wichita State University by providing an environment where they can share their feedback and concerns so that their voices are heard, and they feel valued. I am honored to be nominated for staff senate.
Christopher Wiebe
Hello, my name is Chris Wiebe, and I work in Housing and Residence Life as the Assistant Director of Educational Engagement. I am coming up on my first year in May working at WSU. I am interested in serving on the University Staff Senate because WSU gave me so much in the past when I went to school here, and I had a great time when I was a Resident Assistant for Housing. The staff at WSU helped me find my path to my future going into Student Affairs, and I want to give back to the University. I am also interested in serving on the staff senate because I want to make new connections and learn how to share my pride for this institution and help shape the future of WSU. If voted into the Staff Senate, I will support diversity and inclusion across campus, ensuring everyone has a voice. I will be open to hearing everyone and bringing new ideas and ways of thinking.
Terrance Williams
Hello! My name is Terrance Williams and I am the current Recruitment Coordinator for the College of Engineering specifically within the Engineering Student Success Center. On top of coordinating recruitment efforts for the Engineering College, I also advise a couple of our engineering students groups (NSBE & Engineering Ambassadors), oversee WSU Engineering social media accounts, and coordinate all campus visits within the college. I have been with Wichita State University since Fall of 2019. I am passionate about advocating for and supporting current and future students at Wichita State and I do that by promoting a culture of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion within my work.
I received a double Bachelor’s of Science in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Oklahoma State University (GO POKES!). Now I am currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Psychology (MEd) under the HESA track and will graduate this fall from Wichita State (GO SHOCKS!). I am interested in Staff Senate because this will be my first time serving on a committee within the University. I think it’s also important to network and continue building relationships with my fellow colleagues across campus. Being on the staff senate would allow me to do that while also addressing concerns of our fellow staff members. I appreciate this nomination!
Kyle Wilson
My name is Kyle Wilson, and I currently serve as the Director for Student Conduct & Community Standards (SCCS) at WSU! I have been here for a little over 5 years, all of which have been in SCCS. I am interested in being more involved in the staff senate as I have had many colleagues who have been involved throughout my time here and told me how impactful it can be. If I were selected, I would like to better connect with colleagues and help continue to build relationships between both the staff and faculty senates as I believe we can do more for the university together.
Karen Wright
I’m Karen Wright. I’ve worked at Wichita State University for 8 years, initially as an Academic Advisor in the College of Engineering then after 5 years, transferring to TRIO Student Support Services as Assistant Director, serving first-generation students providing academic support, trained and certified tutors for tutoring assistance and, scholarship opportunities, laying the groundwork toward persistence, graduation, and future careers.
I’m interested in serving with the University Staff Senate to advocate for staff with varied interests and concerns. Whether it’s shared governance, compensation packages, mentoring and professional development opportunities for growth, or any issue of importance for staff. When our voices are heard and action is taken, that becomes a positive change and it lays the foundation for the next generation of staff, whose voices also matter. It would be a privilege to have the opportunity to represent co-workers by serving on the University Staff Senate where our voices would be heard, as we work toward finding solutions that work.
Angela Zeorlin
Name, Department, Position
Angie Zeorlin
Scholarship Manager,
Office of Financial Aid
Time at WSU
20 years
Interest in Serving
Wichita State University is a 2nd home to me. I am a proud alum and have served on
many committees in my 20 years. I have seen the impact this service has brought and
feel that everyone’s voice counts. I have had the opportunity to build strong relationships
with members of all staff categories on campus from upper administration to faculty
to classified/unclassified staff. Even with all the past changes, there is still work
to be done; many issues remain unresolved.
What I Hope to Accomplish
Any accomplishments would be determined by the voices of our staff community. As issues
are presented, we must all work as a team to determine the path to follow.
Wendy Brooking
Name, Department, Position
Wendy Brooking, School of Computing, Office Coordinator
Time at WSU
3 years and 5 months
Interest in Serving
I desire to serve others by representing their concerns to the Senate.
What I Hope to Accomplish
In my capacity as a Senate member, I hope that I will become a source of information
and assistance to those across the university. I intend to give staff a voice that
will represent their concerns.
Johny Buchanan-Spachek
A little bit about me. I have worked at Wichita State University for 10 years as an Office Manager. I am currently the Office Manager for the Workforce, Professional & Community Education and University Conference office in the Eugene M. Hughes Metropolitan Complex.
I have served on the senate for 7 years as a senator, member of various committees
and I was elected President of the University Staff Senate (USS) and served as President
in 2016-2017.
For the last two years I have served as a Student Affairs senator on the newly merged
UP and USS WSU Staff Senate and I am a member of the Parking Appeals Committee. I
also serve as a temporary member of the Library Appeals committee.
I love serving on the senate. I’ve always been willing to do whatever needs to be
done. I am committed to the senate and the staff constituents we serve. I believe
in what the senate is doing and hope to continue to accomplish the goals of the senate.
There have been many changes over my time with the senate and I look forward to the
future. Your vote is very important, and it does count. I hope you will vote for me
in the upcoming election.
I would be honored to serve again.
Joeli Gomez
Heather Hill
Matt Houston
Greetings fellow Shocker colleagues
I am running for another term on the Staff Senate to serve you all and keep your voices heard. I have been employed at WSU for 17 years as an electrician at Facilities Services and have served on the Classified/USS/Staff senates for many years and served as a president for one of those years. I have had the pleasure of serving you and as said before looking forward to continuing to represent your voices and concerns while on the senate. Thank you all for the opportunity.
Nathaniel Johnson
Marissa Kouns
Hello! My name is Marissa Kouns and I am a Program Specialist in the Office of Financial Aid. In my position, I assist with the management of Title IV programs and compliance as well as helping students to obtain financial assistance to pursue their education. I work collaboratively across campus to manage our Federal Work Study program and supervise our office’s work study students. I have a passion for my work and love the opportunities our office and WSU create for our students.
I am a proud graduate from Wichita State University, completing my bachelor’s degree in marketing and management in 2008. After spending several years in various roles in higher education at other institutions, I went on to complete my MBA at Friends University in 2014. A few years later, I was given the opportunity to join Wichita State University, something I always wished for since beginning my career in higher education. I have been a part of WSU for nearly 6 years now and can say this is absolutely my favorite place to be. I am looking forward to many more years to come.
I have served university staff for the past two years, participating on several senate committees and currently serving as Secretary. I am very excited about the opportunity to serve another term because I genuinely care about the well-being of the university, staff, and students. I love to be involved and see how I can make a positive impact to the lives of staff and students. I am an active listener and receptive to thoughts, ideas, and feedback from others. I am dedicated to making sure that every voice is included and heard. I hope to use my experience, ideas, and perspective to advocate for and represent staff and students in the WSU community.
Angie Linder
Hello Shocker family. I have worked in the Financial Aid & Scholarships office at WSU for 21 years. Before accepting my WSU position in 2001, I had proudly served in the United State Air Force for 10 years, and continued my military work while at WSU, retiring from the Kansas Air Guard in 2010 with 22 years of combined service.
I have served as a University Support Staff Senator at WSU off and on since 2003. I have participated in many campus organizations and chaired several committees and projects over the years. I am honored to be nominated as a representative for the Staff Senate and will continue to bring creativity, a positive attitude, and a commitment to service as your senator for the greater good of my family at WSU.
Amy McClintock
I have worked at WSU for 23 years. I currently work in the School of Nursing, Graduate Nursing Programs office. It has been exciting to be involved and observe how processes for the USS at WSU have transformed into the shared governance model they are today. I enjoy all aspects of the university community and believe that being an active stakeholder in the USS Senate shared governance opens doors and offers transparency for us all.
Coni Nutter
Hello Colleagues! I currently serve as the Executive Assistant to the Dean in the College of Health Professions. I have worked at WSU for eight years, having previously spent six years in the Communication Sciences and Disorders department. I feel that as the Assistant to the Dean I am in a unique position to be a voice for our college. I enjoy working with and representing the staff members in our college and throughout WSU. I am involved in a number of projects at the college and university level and would love to share the exciting things going on in CHP with those around the university.
Jessica Pierpoint
Hello! My name is Jessica Pierpoint. I am grateful to be re-nominated to serve on Staff Senate. Currently, I work at Ablah Library as the Patent and Trademark Specialist. I have been with Wichita State University since January 2019, a little over 4 years.
I have had the opportunity to serve on the Staff Senate since 2021, acting as Co-Chair of the Staff Awards and Recognition Committee for this past year. I truly enjoy the higher educational environment and community that Wichita State offers and have always had a passion to make our university and community greater. I look forward to the opportunity to continue being a representative for WSU Staff and am honored to be nominated.
Jerri Rogers
College of Health Professions
School of Nursing / Administrative Assistant to the Chair since August 2022
I’m excited to provide representation for Staff regarding issues of concern, serve
on staff senate committees, and continue to provide an encouraging and supportive
learning culture.
I enjoy:
Nature, hiking, kayaking, and a good game of cornhole while BBQing in the summertime.
I love to cook (when I have time), and love spending time at home with my beautiful
family and my amazing corgi Peanut.
Sara Rue
My name is Sara Rue, I work with Access Services in the University Libraries as the Reserve Materials Specialist. In June I will be starting my eighth year with the University and look forward to many more. Two years ago I was nominated for the senate and was elected allowing me to see a broader view of WSU and how we can work together to make it better. During that time I have been on the Professional Development and Service Committee, and Docking Institute Survey Committee. It has been an incredibly rewarding experience and working to support staff in both their professional development and how we can all work together has become a passion of mine.
Working in the library has afforded me the opportunity to work closely with students, faculty and my fellow staff and see the ways we can directly impact and support each other as a community. I have and will continue to strongly advocate for the staff of WSU. If I am elected to continue to be on the Senate, I will work towards developing ways to increase awareness of and opportunities for professional development, and use the information gathered from the Docking survey and discussions with other staff to better support and empower all of us.
Brandon Schneider
Name, Department, Position
Brandon Schneider, Office of Research, Grants Coordinator
Time at WSU
7 years in August
Interest in Serving & Hoping to Accomplish
I have been a happy and dedicated employee for nearly 7 years, starting as a Senior
Administrative Assistant at WSU West. I was already a Shocker when I joined the University,
as I was completing my undergraduate degree. I graduated in Magna Cum Laude in May
2018, and decided to pursue my graduate degree and completed that in December 2021.
My interest in serving has a direct tie to my pride in being a Shocker. I feel as
if I’ve lived my professional life in accordance with Shocker PROUD service standards
from the moment I started in August 2016, before its introduction in 2018.
I love being part of this University, am proud to be an alumni, and I want to continue
being an active participant in the shared governance opportunity. My hope would be
that my staff constituents would know they could come to me and voice their opinions
and/or concerns, knowing that they would be brought to the discussion table. When
we all have a voice and know that our opinions are being heard and discussed, that
is when we know we’re all being valued.
Sally Spina
Hello, everyone. My name is Sally Spina, and I am honored to be nominated for Staff
Senate. I am a Graduate Admissions Evaluator and Recruiter, working mostly with international
students. Although I have been in this position for less than a year, I have been
involved with Wichita State University for much of the past 5 ½ years. I started as
a graduate student myself in 2017, then worked in student support, before returning
to the university as an adjunct instructor and finally stepping into my current role
with the Graduate School.
My experiences in education have given me the opportunity to teach, mentor, and assist
students through multiple stages of their education. This has shown me how essential
all parts are to the whole when the goal is student success. As a potential representative
on Staff Senate, I hope to help facilitate interdepartmental collaboration on campus
as we all work to provide an excellent academic experience for our students
Rhenee Swink
Rhenee Swink graduated from Wichita State with a M.A. in Local and Community History in 2022. She is a former Gradate Teaching Assistant and former Student Assistant for the Departments of Philosophy and History. In August of 2022, she joined the team of the Registrar’s Office as a Records and Registration Clerk. Rhenee’s experience before Wichita State University includes twenty-years in aviation, records management, and archives.
Rhenee’s goal is to increase engagement of newer employees—who may not be as familiar with the role of the Staff Senate—in policy decisions in order to improve the work environment for all employees of Wichita State University.
Akeila Wilson
Name, Department, Position
Akeila Marie Wilson, University Police Department Emergency Communication Specialist
Time at WSU
I started as a student worker summer of 2019 before my freshman year of college. In
September 2021, I was given the opportunity to promote to the full time position that
I have now. I have been in this position for a little over a year and a half.
Interest in Serving
I am interest in serving as I feel this would be great experience and an opportunity
not worth passing up. I want to better unite those who help run WSU smoothly, as things
would not be possible without staff on campus.
What I Hope to Accomplish
I would like to hear more from the staff/faculty on campus about what can be done
to improve all of us as a whole.