Transcript INAUGURAL SAC RETREAT - Florida Gulf Coast University

Annual Staff Assembly
May 2, 2011
2011 Elections
Biographies of Nominees
2011 Available Seats
A&P Seats
Support Personnel Seats
2010-2012
Filled
2011-2013
Available
Total
2010-2012
Filled
2011-2013
Available
Total
President/Advancement/Athl
etics
1
1
2
0
1
1
Administrative Services
2
1
3
2
2
4
Student Affairs
1
1
2
1
0
1
Academic Affairs – NonCollege
1
1
2
1
1
2
Academic Affairs – College
0
1
1
1
1
2
At-Large
1
1
2
1
1
2
Total
6
6
12
6
6
12
Guy Cicinelli
Support Personnel
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I am married with two children, originally from Chicago, IL. I have been living
in Naples, FL for over 10 years now. I am a FGCU graduate (2006) and served
in the US Army. My work experience has mainly been in Information
Technology, beginning at Verizon Wireless in the late 90's. I currently work in
Library Services as a Computer Support Specialist where I get to help staff,
faculty, students , and community patrons with all their computing needs. I
joined the FGCU team in August of 2009, so this summer will be my two year
anniversary. I am also taking classes toward an MBA at FGCU.
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I am running for a position on SAC so that I can help represent the needs of
my fellow co-workers in the library and the university. I feel that my previous
work experience and education, as well as my experience with FGCU, will
provide a strong foundation to assist me as a member of the SAC.
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One of my favorite things about FGCU is that is young and growing by leaps
and bounds. We, as students, staff, and faculty have the opportunity to
shape the university's future. Most universities have long been set in their
history and traditions, where change and/or improvements are very difficult
to accomplish.
Susan Fohs
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Support Personnel
When my husband and I moved to Florida in 1994, one of the first things I noticed was a
sign in front of a two story building just south of Alico Road which stated, “The New
University: Now Hiring!” At that very moment I set my sights on applying and getting a
position with this new venture. I was hired by the University Library in September 1994. I
spent my first five years helping the librarians to build and furnish the library for the ‘New
University!’ During this time the university was named, a logo was selected and a site was
chosen. We were well on our way to building the faculty, staff and campus for Florida Gulf
Coast University. In 1999 I moved to the College of Arts and Sciences and served the
Department of Ecological Sciences as Executive Secretary. Then in 2004 I moved to the
Whitaker Center for STEM Education where I am currently serving as Administrative
Assistant.
This week I received an email informing me that someone had nominated me to run for
the Staff Advisory Council this year. I served on the Committee which put together the
plan to have a staff council and then served as a member the first year it was established.
A few years later, I was elected to serve another term. So much has changed since 1994! I
am now in my last few years of serving this wonderful institution. I felt that I should
accept this nomination and, if elected, bring my years of experience in working with staff,
faculty, students and administration toward serving the Staff Advisory Council once again.
As always, there is so much to be done!
My favorite part of working at FGCU has to be the people. This is a great place to work. I
have laughed and I have cried many times with faculty, staff and students. My heart is
here!
Kim Hobart
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Support Personnel
I have been with FGCU since October 2004 beginning as a
Senior Secretary for the School of Nursing, then as an
Executive Secretary, and currently the Office Manager for the
School of Nursing. Being at FGCU is so similar to a small town
– everyone being friendly and helpful. Friends are easily made
at FGCU.
I am seeking a second term on SAC, I hope to continue with
the committees and issues that SAC as a whole is working on.
For the first two years on SAC, I have participated on the
Comments, E lection, Strategic Planning, and Public Relations
Committee. I also was a representative for SAC on the
Positioning Alignment Task Force.
I would like to continue being a part of SAC to help staff
voices be heard.
Kathy McElroy
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Support Personnel
My name is Kathy McElroy and I have been with FGCU for 5
years now as the Executive Secretary for The Chemistry &
Mathematics Department. I have served on SAC for 2 years
now, and would love the opportunity to renew my service
term and continue working on the important projects that
SAC is currently addressing. I was asked by the Provost to
service on the Task Force as a representative of SAC, which I
did and was very excited to be a part of that awesome team.
Because FGCU is growing so rapidly, changes are inevitable. I
would like to be a part of the Staff Advisory Council and have
the opportunity to help shape the policies that will determine
the type of work environment we want at FGCU.
It is a pleasure to come to work every day. I love being on
campus with the students. There is always something going
on in the courtyards, students always seem so happy to be
here.
One fun thing about me is my love for Betty Boop
collectables
CJ McFarland
Support Personnel
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I have been at FGCU since 1999 when I was accepted as a
freshmen and I watched this school grow from 3 Academic
buildings and 6 dorms to over 12 buildings and dozens upon
dozens of dorms. I started working for AETS doing Academic
and Event Support for the campus since 2000 during my
freshmen year and have never left. Over the last 11 years I
have truly grown with this university and it has made me a
much better person.
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Due to my position I am all over campus and learn a lot about
the working of the university from a spectator stand point. I
have accepted the nomination for SAC because I would like to
move from a spectator to participant, and help further the
mission of the university and help to give other the same help
and support I have received over the years.
Amber Pacheco
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Support Personnel
I relocated to the Bonita Springs/Estero area in 2003. Originally from Maine, I
became part of the FGCU family when I began pursuing my bachelor’s degree in
2005. I started as an OPS staff member at Alico Arena in the fall of 2005 and
moved into my current position as an event planner in June of 2006. Having
earned my degree this semester, I am looking forward to celebrating another
milestone at FGCU: my 5th year of service in the Campus Reservations department.
I hope to expand my professional knowledge by serving on the Staff Advisory
Council and assisting others the way SAC has assisted me, such as supporting my
educational goals by ensuring the Grant-In-Aid award remained available to
qualifying staff members and responding to questions I’ve had in years past.
As a representative, I hope to continue to develop communication between the
SAC and FGCU employees. It is important to have passionate people with whom to
share your ideas and concerns, who can then thoughtfully advocate on your
behalf. I’d like to serve as a liaison between the two professional groups, relaying
suggestions for improvement from staff members as well as their positive
feedback. I’m proud to be a part of FGCU in its continued growth, and I hope to
have the opportunity and privilege of being a SAC member.
In regards to my favorite things about FGCU, I think it is great that it’s such a new
institution. We are helping develop history as the days go by! In 20 years, I’m sure
I’ll be blown away by what this university has accomplished and how much of an
impact it has on this area; I already am! I love, too, that we strive to be
environmentally sustainable. Many of you know that sustainability is a personal
interest of mine as well. Give back - GO GREEN!
Trish Smith
Support Personnel
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I am a true-life Floridian, born in Fort Myers, many years ago! I have no plans or
desires to leave and is in total agreement, “There’s no place like home.”
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I started working for FGCU in 1999 on two separate OPS occurrences as Office
Assistant with Athletics and later in the year, Library Services. On June 2, 2000, I
became a permanent employee as Executive Secretary for CHP/Department of
Interdisciplinary Studies. I have remained in the College of Health Professions
since that time and am presently the Accountant in the Office of the Dean. I
have extensive experience working with the State of Florida under the
Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. I am attending Life Christian
University pursuing my degree in Theology.
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I am honored to be nominated and considered to represent USPS Staff and to be
a part of the growth process and changes of FGCU. I bring a desire to be a part
of a persistent team. I would like to be involved in supporting any role or task
considered necessary into feasible resolutions. If given the opportunity, I can
and will make a positive contribution as a SAC member.
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I enjoy seeing so many students on campus. When I first arrived on campus, you
could go to lunch and not worry about parking. Now, it is best to bring a lunch
or drive around a half hour searching for a parking space. I enjoy and love being
a part of the FGCU family!
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The fun thing about me is to make a person smile. I love talking with people
and responding with joyful statements to keep them laughing!
Karen Volpe
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Support Personnel
I retired from the NJ School System September, 2005 and moved to
Estero, December 2005. I guess my retirement was short-lived
because I applied for an OPS position at FGCU – January, 2006 –
Human Resource Dept. After 5 months, I decided to accept a position
in the General Counsel’s office. In January, 2008, I accepted a full-time
position as a USPS employee working for the Lutgert College of
Business-Academic Advising. I now work for academic services in the
Lutgert College of Business as a support staff for the faculty. I am so
happy to be working for such a professional group of people.
I am truly interested and concerned at which direction FGCU is going.
Being such a young university the direction is not quite written in
stone and I would like to add suggestions from the staff to continue to
move in a direction that would benefit all.
I feel working for FGCU, that we are making history. I would like to
think that we are all part of the decisions making that will help the
university move forward in a positive manner.
Living in Estero, I feel I am part of the university professionally and
personally. I enjoy the camaraderie that we share.
Sandy Zablackas
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Support Personnel
My name is Sandy Zablackas and I have been with employed with Florida Gulf Coast
University since January 27, 2010 as a Human Resources Records Representative. Prior to
joining FGCU, I worked in Human Resources and Management for a department store for
the past 25 years. I graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science
degree. I am married and have a 16 year old daughter attending Fort Myers High School.
I come from a Customer Service background. Working in Human Resources I consider our
employee’s our customers and strive to provide outstanding customer service to the
employees of the organization where I work.
I am privileged to meet each new FGCU employee, usually on their first day. I realize that
the impression they receive during their first visit to Human Resources impacts their
impression of the University they just joined. By being a member of SAC, I want to
contribute not only to making each FGCU employee’s first day outstanding, but to an
environment that is an outstanding place to work every day!
Having worked in a corporate environment and now in a university setting I bring a
prospective of combining different approaches to solve issues. During the past year I
have spent many hours conduct numerous audits in HR and solving problems. I am able to
calmly looking at the many facets of a situation without being overwhelmed and use all
resources to find the best result for all involved in the issue
The reason I want to be a SAC representative is to provide service to the employee’s of
FGCU as well as work to find ways to help FGCU grow to its fullest potential.
I find that it is wonderful to work in an environment that promotes a work life balance
(after spending 25 years working weekends, Christmas Eve, and 3 AM inventories). I love
being a part of an organization that is new and growing. FGCU provides an environment
that encourages diversity and provides opportunity for those of us lucky to work here.
Neela Chevli
Administrative & Professional
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I have worked at FGCU for 11 years in technical positions ranging from
System Administrator to Telecommunications Coordinator (current
position). I am running for another term on the Staff Advisory Council
because I was nominated, and because it can take more than two
years to see SAC initiatives through to completion.
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One unfinished project is getting the Leave Donation Policy amended
and approved so that donated leave can be used to care for a family
member who has a prolonged illness. In another area, while we have
also made a good start in examining the current smoking on campus
situation, this effort needs to be continued so momentum is not lost
and the campus environment can be improved for everyone.
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Two things that are special to me about this organization are the
people, and the natural beauty that surrounds us. If there’s anything I
can do make things better either for staff, or for the milieu in which we
work, I will do my best to improve things for everyone.
Administrative & Professional
Waner Del Rosario
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Born in New York, raised in Miami, and graduated from
Florida State University in Tallahassee, I am now a proud
Southwest Floridian.
I started my career with FGCU in June of 2008 as a Computer
Applications Coordinator.
I wish to be a representative for the hard workers of the
University, to be a voice for those that want to be heard. As a
SAC member, I would love to improve morale by increasing
staff participation in decisions that affect you in order to
make Florida Gulf Coast University a place where everyone
truly loves to work.
A few of my many favorite things about FGCU is that we’re
not afraid to say hello to each other, even if we don’t
remember your name. The sense of pride that everyone, staff
and students, have towards FGCU is simply exciting; you’d be
hard pressed to find someone who wouldn’t smile when
greeted with a hearty “GO EAGLES!”
Tia Freiburger
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Administrative & Professional
I have been with FGCU for 7 years. During that time, I have
worked both at the Aquatics Center and the Recreation
Center. Currently, I am responsible for Informal Recreation
and Special Events for Campus Recreation. I am originally
from the state of Iowa and completed my master’s degree at
the University of Tennessee.
I am running for SAC for a second term because I don’t feel
like my time is quite done. There are areas where I have
made some improvements such as the newsletter and the
website and I would like to continue being part of those
changes. I also believe that with my marketing and
programming background, I can work to bring SAC some more
recognition both to the staff at FGCU and to the
administration.
I love that FGCU is such a young campus. As a young
professional it has been interesting to grow and mature right
alongside my institution.
Jennifer Gabou
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Head Women’s Tennis Coach
University Athletics
Administrative & Professional
Administrative & Professional
Andrea Davis Henry
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My name Is Andrea Henry. I have served the University in the
capacity of Payroll Manager since November 2002. I have a
Masters Degree in Business Administration and a Bachelors
Degree in Human Resources Management from Texas A&M
University-Commerce.
I chose to run for elections as a SAC Member as I believe that
my passion for equity and fairness would make me a valuable
addition to SAC. I enjoy working with people and believe in
an open door policy. One of my favorite thing about working
for FGCU is the feeling of working on a Big team that is
actively listening, caring, understanding, and serving the
University as a whole.
Administrative & Professional
Elizabeth Loredo
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Liz Loredo is a Marketing and Events Coordinator in the Career
Development Services office at FGCU. Career Services is in the area of
Student Affairs, and Liz has enjoyed working with FGCU students and
staff since July of 2008. While at FGCU, Liz has advised student
organizations, participated in numerous university events, and
partnered with other university departments to create new
programming. She is a graduate of the University of Southern
Mississippi with a BA Degree in Arts and Letters with a Major in
Speech Communication. Liz is currently pursuing a Masters of Public
Administration at FGCU.
As a member of the Staff Advisory Council, I would like to promote a
spirited, positive, and unified working environment for all FGCU staff.
In order to achieve that goal, I would advocate for a universal “new
hire” orientation program, employee spirit initiatives, and a
mentorship program.
Two of my favorite things about FGCU are the guiding principles of
service and sustainability. I believe that these goals are unique among
institutions of higher education, and set FGCU apart as an organization
with a clear vision for the future. I like the way our staff is empowered
to contribute to sustainability every day, and hope to see more
opportunities for staff to contribute to the university mission through
service in the future.
Administrative & Professional
Elspeth McCulloch
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I am an e-Learning designer with over a decade of experience
in distance and distributed education. I have worked at FGCU
for two and a half years and have served on the Student
Orientation Advisory Committee and the Student Conduct
Committee. I was named A&P Employee of the Year for 201011. I have a Bachelors of Arts in English from University of
Waterloo and am currently pursuing a Masters of Education,
Curriculum and Instruction, Educational Technology at FGCU.
SAC has many challenges and responsibilities, so I am willing
to help out where help is needed and do not mind pitching in
to get things done. I am interested in technology and
education, so making sure that staff have access to growth in
these areas is an important focus. We have many outstanding
OPS employees at FGCU and I would like to support efforts to
get increased benefits like fitness membership and tuition
waivers for these wonderful colleagues.
The campus trails are wonderful. There is another world just
steps away from us. I also love the people at FGCU—staff,
faculty and students. FGCU has a great spirit and community.
It is a joy and a privilege to be part of it.
Administrative & Professional
Juanita Mottley
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Hello my name is Juanita Mottley; I have been employed at
FGCU for almost eight years. I received my bachelor’s degree
in Business Administration from Bethune Cookman University
in Daytona Beach and my RN from Edison State College.
Currently I am taking classes towards a Masters in Health
Administration here at FGCU. My career here started as an
OPS, LPN/ HIV Counselor. Today, I serve in the capacity of
Assistant Director of Student Health Services.
If I were given the opportunity I would be keen to participate
in activities where you could see my enthusiasm and positive
energy to make a difference and assisting in any area of need.
I feel it will be a favorable juncture that will be immensely
rewarding and can offer me the connection to give back as
well move forward with our FGCU community.
Two of my favorite things about FGCU are the opportunities
for growth both personal and professionally, and the
compassion shown to our students especially students with
special needs.
David Nichols
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Administrative & Professional
Head Women’s Volleyball Coach
University Athletics
Emma Reeners
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Administrative & Professional
I was born and raised in New York and moved to Florida right
after I graduated from The College of Brockport with a
Masters in Recreation and Leisure Services Management. I am
currently the Aquatics Programming Coordinator within
Campus Recreation and have been in this position at FGCU for
two years now.
I would like to be elected to SAC because as a young
professional on campus I feel it is my duty to get involved.
SAC is a great way to get to know other professionals in other
departments, and work together. As a SAC member, I hope to
work collaboratively with other staff members on various
issues pertaining to the University. I also hope to bring a
young person’s perspective to those topics and issues.
One of my favorite things about FGCU is it’s youthfulness. I
love that things are always changing and that I get to be part
of that change. I have only been here for 2 years and have
already seen so many changes on campus and have seen
things grow.
Colleen Sorem
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Administrative & Professional
I have worked at FGCU since July 2008 in the athletic
department as Assistant Athletic Director of Business
Operations. I am in charge of the daily financial operations of
the athletic department, including budget development and
management as well as payroll, pcards etc.
I am running for SAC because I am looking to get more
involved across campus at FGCU. After working at FGCU for 3
years, I feel I can now offer opinions and ideas that could
possibly make a difference for staff at FGCU.
I love that everyone at FGCU understands what it means to be
at a growing university, although it brings many challenges
there is also great excitement that comes with that and I think
most of the employees take that to heart on a day to day
basis.
I love the waterfront, hands down one of the best attractions
on campus
Administrative & Professional
Suzanne Specht
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Suzanne Specht is the Assistant Director, professional development
coordinator, and full-time certified business analyst for the Small
Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University. She has
been with Florida Gulf Coast University since 1997. Suzanne has
counseled over 2000 small business owners in the past 13.5 yrs. She
has spent over 12,600 counseling hours with clients assisting them
with business plans, financial statements, and loan applications
resulting in 140 business start-ups and capital formation over $15
million dollars.
The SBDC has always been off campus and just moved to the Lutgert
College of Business 2 years ago. Since I’ve only had exposure to the
FGCU campus for 2 years, I thought running for SAC would be a great
way to meet other FGCU employees and to assist in any way I can. My
goal is to help!! I’ve been impressed with what SAC does and feel we
can enhance those accomplishments. My nickname is “Resource
Queen”—since living in SW Florida for over 30 years, I can offer all of
my contacts, expertise and experience to create a better environment
for FGCU employees. I hope to accomplish being the go-to person for
creatively offering solutions to any issue here at FGCU—to be your
voice—to be on your side!!!
Love the fun events that we do , i.e. Cinco de Mayo
Love the energy from the students and staff—it’s invigorating to see
excitement and passion !!!
Carl Steinberg
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Administrative & Professional
My name is Carl Steinberg and I am currently a Coordinator in the Business Operations Office
supporting three contracts; the Bookstore contract, the Vending contract and the IKON copier
contract. I also supervise the Eagle ID office. I began my employment the same day as
President Bradshaw, November 13, 2007, so I have been with the University for 3 ½ years.
There are two primary reasons for my interest in running for SAC:
First, I believe that some organizational enhancements would add greatly to employee
satisfaction and respond to many of the comments reflected in the climate survey. I believe
that throughout the survey employees were often asking for a way to be heard as it relates to
issues that are of great interest to them. The enhancement that I see that could be
implemented is what I call an expanded governance structure. By that I mean that I believe
that if the university used a series of committees, like SAC, to gain input from faculty and staff
on a variety of topics there would a benefit in terms of increased staff participation which I
believe is a prime underlying theme in the climate survey. In addition I think that leadership
would benefit from that staff perspective. A key consideration of this idea is that the
committees must be clearly articulated in terms of their membership, roles and
responsibilities.
Secondly, I have an interest in the physical development of the university and would like to
somehow be involved. In some ways this relates to my first area of interest in that I would like
to be part of the physical planning process. I believe that the University is at a point where it
can take one of two paths. The first is to develop in a “traditional” manner, with the vehicle
as the core around which the campus is developed OR, to develop in a non-traditional pattern,
with the pedestrian as the core and the vehicle outside the core. I would like to look for ways
to proceed along the second path.
In the three plus years that I have been at FGCU, I have truly enjoyed the positive atmosphere
and learning environment. Watching the new students coming through the Eagle ID office
every semester- with all of their enthusiasm-is addicting. I would like to do my best to add to
the experience. I am certain that my years of supervisory and leadership experience will allow
me to be a positive influence in SAC and FGCU.