Led by a new chair, Craig Wiggers, and executive vice chair, Hei Hei Depew, the Employee Assembly (EA) has resumed regular biweekly meetings and has a full slate of activity coming up.

Credit: Jason Koski/Cornell Brand Communications

Cornell President Martha E. Pollack will deliver the annual President’s Address to Staff Oct. 9, noon-1 p.m., in the Rhodes-Rawlings Auditorium, Klarman Hall. Her remarks will be followed by a question-and-answer period. All staff are invited to attend the EA-sponsored event; lunch will be provided. The address also will be livestreamed and recorded. Staff members can ask questions at the event or submit them electronically in advance.

The EA also is reviewing its committee structure. With nine new and 21 returning voting members – as well as several returning administrative and ex-officio members – the EA hopes to better focus the work of each committee. Chairs have been appointed for each committee, who now seek staff members outside the EA to join.

“This is a real opportunity to have a positive impact at Cornell,” said Wiggers. “A year ago, the assembly expanded its membership to better represent employee voices across the university. This year, we already have met with President Pollack to become better informed about the university’s priorities for the upcoming year and with Vice President Mary Opperman to better understand how to work with senior administration as we work in support of Cornell employees. Having our committees fully staffed and doing work of value is key to that process, and I would encourage interested staff to consider serving on an EA committee.”

Committees seeking staff volunteers for academic year 2018-19:

• Communications and Awards Committee: Carrie Sanzone, chair, cms92@cornell.edu;
• Employee Benefits and Policy Committee: Tarek Chams, chair, tc333@cornell.edu;
• Employee Education Committee: Arla Hourigan, chair, aj96@cornell.edu;
• Employee Welfare Committee: Andrea Haelin-Mott, chair, ah45@cornell.edu; and
• Transportation Committee: Kristine Mahoney, chair, km285@cornell.edu.

Committees generally meet twice a month, usually over the lunch hour and often remotely so members don’t have to leave their workplace. Those considering joining a committee should discuss with their supervisors the feasibility of that commitment, as well as the benefits of honing leadership skills and gaining a broader understanding of the university and its operations.

Through this committee work and the regular biweekly EA meetings – which are open to all staff – the EA can collaborate with key university stakeholders, advocate for staff interests and improve the staff experience.

“If you are interested in joining a committee, feel free to contact a committee chair,” said Wiggers. Staff members also can learn more about the Employee Assembly and keep up with its activities and progress by going to the EA website and contacting the EA member who represents their area or interest group.