
Get Involved
Membership offers staff valuable connections, professional development, and chances to make improvements that benefit everyone.
Table of Contents
Become a Member
The University Staff Advisory Council is a great way for staff at all Penn State campus locations to get involved and serve fellow staff members. Appointed USAC members have voting responsibilities and serve three-year terms, beginning August 1. Monthly Council meetings typically occur during normal University hours, last approximately two hours, and are considered University business.
USAC Application >>> Applications are now closed.
The application process has been updated for 2022-23.
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Applications will be reviewed and selected to participate in a Zoom interview with the membership and elections committee.
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Interview questions will be shared in advance and a USAC member will serve as an advocate. The advocate’s role is to support applicants, answer questions, and serve as a neutral party during the interview. The advocate will reach out to applicants prior to and following their interview.
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Applicants will be evaluated in the areas of leadership, inclusion/belonging, interest in USAC, time management, and confidentiality.
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Finally, review committee - recommended applicants will be reviewed by Human Resources to ensure they are an employee in good-standing.
As part of the online application, applicants will be asked to submit a letter of support from their direct supervisor. This letter should express an understanding of the responsibilities associated with this role and provide a commitment to support the staff member throughout the time served. Specifically, the letter should acknowledge the supervisor’s understanding that:
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Membership is a 3-year term
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The time commitment is a minimum of 3 hours per month
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Council activity is considered official University business
Eligibility
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Full-time staff employees (non-bargaining unit) are eligible to apply
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Council approves member appointments based on Committee recommendations
Members
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The Council consists of up to 30 staff members (exempt and nonexempt)
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Appointments include a diverse representation of staff from a variety of units and locations
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Term of office (voting position) is three years
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Members are required to serve on sub-committees within the larger council
LOCAL STAFF GROUPS
There are several advisory committees, councils, and groups for staff to join. Find one near you and if a local group does not exist in your area or campus, consider establishing one! Contact your HRSP/HRC to find out what it takes to form your own.
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Abington campus Staff Advisory Council
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Harrisburg campus Staff Advisory Council
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Lehigh Valley campus Staff Advisory Council
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New Kensington campus Staff Senate
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Outreach and Online Education, OOE Ambassadors
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Schuylkill campus Staff Advisory Council
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Shenango campus Staff Advisory Council
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University Park campus
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College of Agricultural Sciences Staff Advisory Committee to the Dean
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College of Arts & Architecture Staff Advisory Council
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College of Earth and Mineral Sciences Staff Advisory Committee
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College of Education [currently forming]
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Libraries Dean's Staff Advisory Council
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