2021 STAFF SENATE GENERAL ELECTION UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE CANDIDATE STATEMENTS - Louisiana ...

2021 STAFF SENATE GENERAL ELECTION
                        UNCLASSIFIED EMPLOYEE
                        CANDIDATE STATEMENTS
Capri Alvarez

My name is Capri Mandella Alvarez, and I have worked at LSU as a professional staff
member for almost 5 years. In my time here, I have worked in three different offices
within both Academic & Student Affairs & have a network of colleagues in various
departments on campus. Becoming a Staff Senator would give me an opportunity to be an
advocate for my colleagues in important areas such as parking, benefits, & recognition. It
would be an honor to serve on Staff Senate and help bring about change for my fellow
staff members.

Rachel Bach

I would like to be nominated to be one of your Staff Senators. I care very deeply about
our LSU Community and see ample opportunity to get involved and speak for change. In
my years at LSU, I have experienced the confusion of walking through some of our
administrative processes. I have felt the confusion that comes with campus-wide changes;
and I have seen the turmoil that comes to pass when staff input is not considered. I’d like
to amplify your voice in campus-wide conversations to move LSU into a healthier, more
transparent future.

Samantha Baldridge

I pledge to continue to serve as an advocate for my colleagues at LSU, ensuring that staff
needs are recognized and heard by the university administration. Additionally, I will
continue to speak up for marginalized groups on campus to make certain that all Staff
Senate decisions and actions are guided by the concepts of diversity, equity, and
inclusion.

Ashleigh Borgmeyer

When I think about being part of LSU’s Staff Senate two words come to mind—gratitude
and service. I am grateful to be a part of LSU, an institution dear to my heart and the
hearts of my family. The opportunity to serve LSU, my colleagues, and the broader
community through Staff Senate would be an honor taken seriously and navigated with
care. I intend to lead, collaborate, and support with a grateful heart and a servant’s
mindset. My hope is to be part of movement toward better outcomes and experiences for
students, staff, and the entire LSU community.

Claire Bullock

I have worked at LSU since 2012 and I have enjoyed working with the faculty, staff and
students. I would like to be more involved at LSU and would like to meet more staff
around campus.

Mo Carney

As both an alumnus and employee of our great university, I want to help facilitate
positive changes for LSU. As part of the LSU community for over 15 years, I have had
the privilege of working with many members of my department, joining forces, and
creating solutions together that benefitted our university as a whole. It would be my
honor to collaborate with other staff members throughout the entire university, using our
combined knowledge and experiences to create change and solutions that would allow
LSU to rise to the new challenges we face together.

Adele Cosse’

Staff member’s voice and perspective matters greatly to accomplishing the aims in an
ever-evolving world of education. I am running for LSU Staff Senator because I believe I
can be a voice for the LSU community. As a former student, current staff member and
Lighthouse Advocate, I would appreciate the opportunity to represent staff members and
contribute to the excellence of the university.

Chandra M. Daniel

Working with the Staff Senate will offer me the ability to work with and for other staff
members on campus. I have worked three years in the Payroll/Accounting Services
Department and have served and currently serve on several committees within my
department. I believe that I can offer a wealth of practical knowledge that will help foster
a collaborative relationship with the administration.

Joshua Duplechain

As a staff member at LSU for more than 14 years, I have had the opportunity to work in
various roles and with various units around campus. I believe that the relationships I’ve
built with these units and the people who work so hard to make them what they are
qualify me as candidate for Staff Senate that will represent their best interests and work
to ensure that they are valued and cared for in the eyes of the university.

Jessica Erwin

I would be honored to serve as a Staff Senator. I am currently the Assistant to the Chair
of the Department of Sociology, and previously worked for the Pennington Biomedical
Research Foundation. In total, I have worked 10 years in support of the LSU system. I am
a proud alum and served in student government as an undergraduate. As a first-generation
American and working parent, my areas of interest include diversity and inclusion;
pregnancy and parenting; and professional development. Given the opportunity, I look
forward to being an enthusiastic voice for our staff as we grow with the university.

LaTrista Funches

As a new member of the LSU community who joined the team in 2019, I have
encountered a lot of colleagues who have questions about what Staff Senate is, who it

serves and how it operates at LSU. I want to be able to speak to these questions without
looking for that information on a website. I am very interested in ensuring staff members
know what resources and support are available to them. I want to help new staff members
connect with other staff as well as be a part of the team that constantly advocates for our
own interests.

Kate Gannon-Cullinan

Hey Tigers! In my short 3 years at LSU I have seen the benefit of a united staff working
together to serve our students. I intend to bring my strategic and communicative nature to
assist in the current work of the Staff Senate to involve and advocate the needs of staff
members. I am eager to connect with other passionate staff members at LSU to continue
improving and supporting the staff experience so that we may best serve our students.
Thank you for your consideration of my candidacy and as always, Geaux Tigers!

Jorge Garza

I Jorge Garza want to serve on Staff Senate to contribute to the excellence, diversity, and
forward progress of Louisiana State University. As a state flagship and land-grant holds a
special responsibility towards enabling empowering democratic education for the citizens
of Louisiana. As a first-generation immigrant from southern Mexico, I represent a
growing population in our state and in our students. As part of staff senate, I would bring
a new voice and background to bear. I love LSU and using my time for service is the
greatest gift I can imagine.

Tiffany George

I would like to be nominated as Staff Senate to bring a fresh perspective and voice to the
LSU staff and community. I feel a sense of familial belonging and pride just by being an
employee and consider myself a TIGER through and through. After having worked in
Facility Services Customer Service Center, I feel I have a fresh set of eyes and am eager
to assist the LSU staff in any way that I can, and will do my best to see it through. Please
consider me, Tiffany George, when voting for your next Staff Senate. Go Tigers!

Deanna Gresham

It feels wonderful to be part of something that makes such a mass effect on so many lives
and futures. Sometimes, tucked away in our individual departments, it is hard to see the
big picture. Serving on the Senate will give me the chance to see what the important
issues are for both the university and unclassified professional staff, and the process for
effecting change. I want to have a better understanding of governance at the university as
well as provide a new insight into issues facing colleagues from other sectors across
campus.

Emmy Hicks

It has been my privilege to work for LSU these past six years. My current role as the
Assistant Director of Development for the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, has

given me valuable insight into the need for effective, intentional, and proactive efforts
towards positive changes. The voices and experiences of our staff at LSU are important
to who we are as a University, and it is my hope to offer my skills and experience in
service to our community of LSU Staff as a member of the LSU Staff Senate.

Shemeka Law

I was very honored and felt appreciated for all my hard work when I received the 1st
Quarter LSU Staff Senate Award. I know that there are so many other staff members that
deserve to be celebrated and recognized for their hard work as well. As an employee of
LSU for 20 years, also as a graduate from LSU, I will strive to have more things done for
our staff who do so much. Geaux Tigers!

Quinneka Lee

I have worked at LSU since 2019 in Residence Education within the Division of Student
Affairs. Staff members make contributions in meaningful ways and these efforts should
be shared. I would advocate for a monthly recognition initiative
to recognize peer’s talent, commitment to the institution and appreciation. I would focus
on social events, for staff members who are new to the area to acclimate them
to LSU, and the community. Finally, I would bring a collaborative mindset to Staff
Senate and aim to advocate for staff, promote diversity and inclusion, and work to
improve the campus, and staff experience.

Timothy Love

I am honored to be nominated as a candidate for the LSU Staff Senate. The campus
decisions made during the COVID-19 crisis and the turmoil around LSU’s Title IX
Review have shown that we need strong advocates for LSU staff members. I have been in
my staff position in the College of Music & Dramatic Arts for almost five years, and I
look forward to the possibility of taking on a more active role on campus helping the
Staff Senate to promote issues important to our staff members.

Bethany Madson

Advocacy, Awareness, and Appreciation: that is the charge of the Staff Senate. As an
employee of the University, it is my desire to assist, promote, and serve this mission in
order to help create a positive workplace filled with open communication, professional
fulfillment, and a safer environment on behalf of my fellow staff members.

Matthew Mattox

No Statement

Christopher Melson

I am the Program Manager of the Local Technical Assistance Program (LTAP) which
provides training to local public works and transportation agencies across the State. There

are many such “outreach” Centers at LSU that work directly with (and provide direct
benefit to) Louisiana communities. I am running for Staff Senate to ensure such Center
staff are represented, their efforts valued, and their unique operations understood. I have a
proven record of leadership, partnering with diverse stakeholders, and working
collaboratively to solve common goals. I am proud to be LSU Staff and would be
honored to serve as Staff Senator.

Bradley Meyers

For over eight years, it has been my privilege to serve the students at this great university
in various capacities as part of LSU Financial Aid and Scholarships, as part of the
Academic Intervention Team, and many more. Through this time, I have developed
incredible professional relationships across various units which has allowed me to serve
my colleagues as well. As we transition into a new era on campus, I believe that my
experience, my emphasis on collaboration, and my passion will empower me to serve the
staff of this incredible institution both effectively and positively. Thanks, and Geaux
Tigers!

Mark Nehlig

I would like to be more involved in the issues that affect LSU Staff and be able to do
more to help Staff members with problems they see on a regular basis.

Casie F. Nicholson, MA, LPC

As a counselor in the College of Engineering I have learned a great deal about being an
advocate through assisting and empowering students towards being independent, well-
communicative professionals. I have also witnessed how hard other members of the staff
work across campus to accomplish the same goal. I value connecting with and learning
from my colleagues, and I view the LSU Staff Senate as a powerful opportunity to learn
how I can do that better, by being available to listen and empathize with their concerns
and needs, which in turn will make us a healthier and stronger team for our students and
faculty.

Mary Olinde

No Statement

Darcee Olson

My name is Darcee Olson and I am Copyright and Scholarly Communications Policy
Director at LSU Libraries. I am running for re-election to the position of Staff Senator. It
has been an honor to serve on the Staff Senate during the past year and to provide input
on issues impacting staff across our campus. If re-elected I hope to continue working to
foster a climate that promotes personal and professional well-being and empowers staff to
participate in the shared governance of LSU.

Erin Peck

As an Academic Counselor in the College of Science, my main function is to provide
students with academic guidance; however, I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor
and Board Approved Supervisor in Louisiana. My background in mental health has
afforded me a unique perspective on student and staff issues. As a member of the Staff
Senate, I plan to advocate for my fellow colleagues and ensure their voices are heard at
the highest levels of administrations. My goal as a Staff Senator is to contribute to the
mission and vision of the university through open engagement of the LSU community.

Alexia Perez

When I learned of the Staff Senate seat openings, I was thrilled. I have served
on staff since April 2019 and have witnessed and experienced first-hand of shortcomings
presented within policies and systematic dysfunctions. I actively work to lessen equity
gaps and have instituted the School of Music Student Diversity & Inclusion Organization
to allow a safe space of equity and inclusion for our music students. I would love the
opportunity to be able to advocate for the overall staff to ensure we are being listened and
a part of the change to better the policy statements set forth.

Alix Perry

After attending LSU for my undergraduate degree, I grew to love the culture and the
people that I met here. I knew I wanted to pursue my career at LSU. I’ve now been
working in Residential Life for almost 3 years and I’m excited for the opportunity to
meet more people and represent the interest of all LSU staff members.

Julian Radney

My name is Julian Radney and I am an Assistant Director in our Office of Admissions.
LSU is in a good position overall but we could be better and that is pushing me to run to
play my role to move our university from good to great. My passion is to serve people by
going the extra mile while really getting to know the people I get lucky enough to serve.
If elected you will have a representative who is passionate about moving the university
forward, creating synergy and willing to listen to the concerns of the faculty.

Kelly Rownd

It is with great excitement that I submit my candidacy for Staff Senate. Throughout my
career, my jobs and volunteer positions have been focused on service, leadership, and
mentorship – which are all qualities that are embodied within Staff Senate. As an LSU
staff member, I’ve seen the impact and important work that is done through Staff Senate
and it would be an honor to walk alongside my fellow colleagues as we represent the
voice of the LSU staff through relationship-building, commitment to staff success, and an
unwavering passion for this University.

Lindsay Rushing

Tucked away in individual departments, it is sometimes hard to see the big picture that is
LSU. Being a Staff Senator will allow me to network and meet colleagues from all
around the university. Serving on the Senate would give me the chance to have a closer
look at how the university runs, what the important issues are for both the university and
unclassified professional staff, and the process for effecting positive change. I look
forward to hopefully having a better understanding of governance at the university as
well as new insight into issues facing colleagues from all sectors on campus.

Chelsea Santangelo

I would like to be considered to serve as a Staff Senator for the new election year so that I
can be a voice in ensuring all employees are represented fairly. As a relatively new
employee, I previously participated in the Navigating LSU: New Employee Preparation
Program; where I experienced professional growth and friendship. I would like to
continue to expand my networking and fellowship through my involvement with Staff
Senate. It would be an honor to give back to the LSU community and participate in
events that enrich the lives of all staff on campus.

Lindsey Sarkissian

My name is Lindsay Sarkissian and I work as a Compensation Consultant at LSU within
Human Resource Management. As an HR professional, I would love to be considered to
serve on LSU’s Staff Senate to not only gain knowledge and understanding of other areas
on campus, but also to participate in meaningful conversations regarding the welfare of
LSU Staff. It is truly rewarding to help departments with their goals of attracting,
retaining, and motivating employees. This opportunity would allow me to contribute
towards the mission of LSU Staff Senate and bring value to my role as an LSU staff
member.

Linda Shaw

Please know that I consider it an honor and a privilege to be on this ballot! For the past
few years, I have enjoyed the benefits of the Staff Senate’s excellent work, so I welcome
the opportunity to serve. I look forward to contributing in any way I can so that LSU
remains a great place to work. Thank you!

Henri Smith

My name is Henri Smith and I am the coordinator for Sponsored Program Accounting. I
have worked at LSU for the past 12 years. I graduated LSU with my BA in 2004 and
then earned my MS in 2017. I love working on campus. I feel very lucky to be able to
work for an institution that has had such a large impact on my life. I feel that I would be
a worthy representative for the staff here at LSU. I have seen the changes that the staff
senate has made over the years. I would love the chance to help bring about even more
changes to benefit the great people we have working behind the scenes here at LSU.

Rebekah Spiers, LMSW

I would like to be considered for a seat on the LSU Staff Senate. As a social worker, the
goals and initiatives of Staff Senate align with our values and ethics to support a platform
for concerns to be voiced and to create change to better the system. I value the process of
identifying policies that impact the well-being of staff, assessing the policies, and
ultimately applying critical thinking to formulate and advocate for policies that advance
human rights and social, economic, and environmental justice. I would be honored to
serve as a Senator on LSU Staff Senate.

Sidney Tauzin

I am running for staff senate because I want a seat at the table where decisions are made
that affect our value as employees. I started my journey as a tiger in 2010, became an
employee in 2016, and started my master’s program in 2018. I currently serve campus as
the commencement coordinator while also volunteering my time as an instructor teaching
public speaking. My commitment to the university is unwavering as is my determination
to advocate for more employee support and resources. VOTE FOR ME!

Danielle Taylor

Since I began working for LSU almost 4 years ago, I have enjoyed attending the many
Staff Senate activities and functions. Before COVID-19, my favorite event was the
Holiday on Campus. My kids loved coming to see Santa, playing games, and creating
new arts and crafts. It was these events that initially got me interested in Staff Senate. I
then began attending some of the monthly meetings, as a guest, and I now understand
how important a role Staff Senate is to the University. This has motivated me to want to
be more involved in making a difference at LSU.

Mallory Taylor

Although my current role is one of student service, I joined the Tiger family in the Office
of Human Resource Management working for and with LSU staff. Thanks to this
experience, I have a unique appreciation for the services and resources provided by staff
that aid in my team’s success. Even though I now work to provide excellent service and
support to students, my respect for and commitment to LSU staff is unwavering. I want to
serve as a Staff Senator to continue my service to LSU staff and provide opportunities
that are important for personal and professional growth.

Christopher Toombs

My name is Christopher Toombs, and I would love your support to be the next LSU Staff
Senator. I have an extensive background in policy work and 13 years’ experience in
secondary and higher education administration. I will increase university productivity by
ensuring LSU is a great place to work, live, and play. By electing me to the staff senate,
you are guaranteed to receive all the value working at LSU beholds. My current work in
enrollment management provides valuable awareness of resources needed to increase
university efficiency. “Elect Chris Toombs LSU Staff Senate 2021!”

Amy M. Trahan

My philosophy – staff inclusion is imperative in guiding the university in a direction that
will raise it to a new level of preeminence. As a member of Staff Senate, I will promote
the interests and perspectives of all staff. I will be a catalyst working towards significant
change, helping to break down walls that have blocked diversity, ignored equity, and
forgotten about inclusion. “Make waves, move mountains, never give up”, that’s what I
plan to do as a Staff Senator. My voice will be the voice for the voiceless. I’m committed
to working for you and with you. Let’s roll!

Jason Walker

I am a new employee (Facility Services). I’d like to bring a fresh perspective, offer up
some new ideas and will always have the staffs’ best interests in mind.

Valori C. Washington

I utilize my expertise in College Access and Choice and service as a Student Advocate to
effectively serve those that are often forgotten and silenced. As a Black woman and
employee of the University, I desire to be a part of progressive change that includes the
cultivation of an inclusive community that identifies, acknowledges, addresses, and
supports the needs and concerns of the LSU community. Serving as a Staff Senator aligns
with my personal and professional mission. I’d love to be considered and commit to
collaborating with campus partners and advocating for the needs of our Staff and
University.

Rachel Wheeler

My name is Rachel Wheeler, and it has been my pleasure to serve as an academic
counselor here at LSU. Over the past three years, I have called LSU and Baton Rouge my
home. Over the course of these years I have had the pleasure of investing in the lives of
many students. I am excited to be a part of such a compelling and growing institution. I
am truly passionate about higher education and look forward to serving this LSU
community. My ultimate goal is to provide the students with a safe place for growth and
transformation.

Dr. Tyrslai M. Williams

Being a Louisiana State University (LSU) Staff Senator presents a challenging role that
would allow me the opportunity to make a huge and positive difference on campus. I am a
dedicated, goal-oriented, and driven team player who believes in LSU's mission and future.
I am heavily involved at the university level serving various capacities, including
the Diversity Roadmap Staff Committee. I know that change happens through teamwork
and action, and I would be honored to join a team of Staff Senators who work seamlessly
alongside LSU leadership to create an equitable place for the employees who make LSU
great.