UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State University Staff Advisory Council (USAC) will host a virtual, one-hour information session at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 26, for any staff member interested in learning more about starting a local staff advisory council (or local council). The session, titled "From Idea to Impact: Starting a Staff Advisory Council," will be recorded to serve as an ongoing resource.
The event is planned as part of USAC efforts to assist the staff community with the transition to a new USAC membership model. The session will feature a panel of staff professionals with varied experience with creating and serving on local councils. Panelists were selected based on their perspectives and expertise. A representative from the USAC Membership and Elections Committee will also share additional expertise and answer questions from the community.
Advanced registration is required by Feb. 24. Registrants will receive a calendar invitation with a Zoom link prior to the event. Questions can be submitted in advance via the registration form, as well as during and after the event.
Staff members can engage with USAC throughout the year via email at askUSAC@psu.edu and online at the USAC website.
Background
USAC recently voted to update its membership model beginning July 1, 2025. Under the new model, staff from each Commonwealth Campus (20), academic college (15) and identified administrative and academic units (24) will elect one full-time staff member to serve a three-year term on USAC. The new model, which increases the representation of staff across the institution, will roll out over two years to stagger membership terms. Identified units with an existing local staff advisory council(s) will elect one member to serve beginning in July 2025, and the remaining units will elect one member to serve beginning in July 2026. Under the new model, USAC will maintain an at-large body of 15 members. USAC is working on updating its website to provide additional information and guidance on the process.
About USAC
The University Staff Advisory Council consists of dedicated staff who act in an advisory capacity to central administration; explore issues, policies and practices that impact staff; suggest revisions to policies and new policy initiatives; and advocate for staff welfare and development. USAC serves the Penn State president and administration through the vice president of Human Resources and accepts new members annually.