FROM THE CHAIR

Staff Affairs representatives are a key component of shared governance at the University of Idaho.  We are a group of employees, elected by our peers, who seek to enhance the professional well being of the employees of the university with active participation in meetings and discussion regarding matters and issues that the university faces as a whole.  Our advocacy is vocal and strong.  Through our five strategic areas – policy, appreciation, communication, learning and development and recognition – we are working to ensure that staff are represented through all levels of the University of Idaho. 

In my role as chair, I participate in President’s Cabinet discussions other leadership meetings. Updates from those meetings, including current happenings with the Presidential Search Committee, are included in this newsletter. Particularly in the search for a new president, it is important both for Staff Affairs and staff at the University of Idaho that we articulate what our needs and concerns, and have input about the person to fill this leadership position.  

Learning and Development opportunities is one of our major initiatives. SkillSoft is a resource to help you grow personally and professionally. We are working with groups, such as Faculty Council and Facilities Maintenance staff, to provide information about SkillSoft to the campus community.  Do you need additional information about SkillSoft?  We want you to be able to use this great tool, and understanding what it is and how to use it is the first step. I'm available to provide informational sessions. I also tailor my presentation to take from five minutes to an hour, depending on the needs of your group. Please send me a note at sa-chair@uidaho.edu to request a presentation.

Our next Staff Affairs meeting is Thursday, Nov. 6, at 2 p.m. in the Commons Crest Room. We will have an update from Nancy Spink (Risk Management) of the Campus Safety progress made to date. Our meetings always are open to anyone whom wishes to participate.  If you are off campus, we have a conference bridge available (contact Charity Buchert, our On-Off Campus Representative, at sa-offsite@uidaho.edu for more info). Also feel free to contact me or any of your Staff Affairs representatives to relay your concerns or to ask about progress in any particular area. We are here to represent you.

Go Vandals!

Dan Noble 

Chair, Staff Affairs   

Financial Specialist, Trust and Investment Office

Continuing Education Building, Room #104                   

885-6841 or dnoble@uidaho.edu                                   

"Staff Affairs is celebrating its 37th year of service to University of Idaho Staff Members. Serving you since 1971!"

October 2008 Staff @ Idaho Newsletter