July 22, 2024

Staff Senate selects new leadership

Love Library is framed in the iconic curves of "Greenpoint," a campus sculpture by Richard Serra. The artist died at the age of 85 on March 26. Learn more about Serra at https://go.unl.edu/3oeh.
Craig Chandler | University Communication and Marketing

Craig Chandler | University Communication and Marketing

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln Staff Senate elected new Executive Committee leaders during its July 18 meeting.

Jordan Gonzales, senior director of alumni engagement for the Nebraska Alumni Association, was elected president. The role is the chief representative of the Staff Senate to the campus, University of Nebraska system administration and the Board of Regents.

Mugshot of Jordan Gonzales
Gonzales

“I’m humbled to serve during this time of transition and opportunity at the university,” Gonzales said. “There is no place like Nebraska, and the staff at UNL are at the core of our mission to ensure every person and every interaction matters.”

Jessie Brophy, director of external engagement and events for the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, was elected vice president for internal affairs. The vice president for internal affairs is the primary point of contact for all UNL entities requesting Staff Senate representation. Brophy will lead the senate in the absence of the president.

Jerri Harner was elected vice president for external affairs. Harner is the executive specialist in the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Prior to being elected vice president for external affairs, Harner served as the co-chair of the Communications CommitteeIn her new role, she will be the primary point of contact for all external entities and stakeholders requesting Staff Senate representation.

Morgan Green McConnell was elected secretary. She is the senior residence director at Massengale HallShe was elected to this position after serving as co-chair of the Recognition Committee. As secretary, Green McConnell records the organization’s proceedings.

Gonzales appointed Sara Haake, former staff senate president and dispatch director for University Police, as executive adviser. Haake will serve as a resource for the president and the Executive Committee to ensure continuity and stability.

Joann Ross, staff senate coordinator, will continue to serve as executive secretary. Ross is tasked with maintaining the organization’s official membership roll, conducting business in tandem with the secretary, and serving as an ex-officio member of the Executive Committee.

The senate meets on the second Thursday of every other month. The next meeting is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. Sept. 12 in the Nebraska Union’s Swanson Auditorium. All UNL staff members are welcome to attend.

Learn more about the Staff Senate.