University Of Houston Downtown

The meeting covered the introduction of executive board members in their new positions and the review of the October meeting agenda. Guest speakers presented on institutional policies, including the Policy Dashboard, Policy Management System, and the Institutional Policies and Compliance SharePoint. There was a presentation regarding the SACSCOC Onsite Visit, focusing on responding to non-compliance with Standard 7.1 and building an improvement-oriented assessment culture. The new dining services partnership with SodexoMagic was introduced, with discussion on the current menu, catering options, and future plans, including payment methods and menu adjustments based on feedback regarding pricing and offerings like salads and smoothies. Staff Council business included updates on the Staff Ombuds Position, the Staff Climate Survey 2025, and upcoming Staff Council Elections. Staff engagement opportunities shared included updates on a Basic Needs Drive, sports/fitness events, free tax filing, a conference, and a Chili Cook-Off, alongside celebrating Black History Month.

The meeting commenced with the review of the agenda and the approval of the May meeting minutes. Key agenda items included new employee announcements and the Edge Grant presentation, with the June and July Kudos recognized. A special presentation was delivered by the Director and Specialist from Emergency Management focusing on Hurricane Preparedness, including recommendations for evacuation routes, cash on hand, and an update on the fire warden program restructuring. Staff Council Business covered an update on the Staff Climate Survey 2025, the recap of SC Resolution No. SC-25-01 regarding presidential term extension, updates on the Staff Council Membership Board for FY26, and Staff Award Nominations. Discussions also addressed staff comments concerning proposed state legislation (SB 37 and SB 2615) impact on shared governance and remote work policies, as well as concerns regarding staff compensation benchmarking against national averages. The meeting concluded with updates on various Staff Engagement Opportunities, including drives and upcoming training workshops.

The meeting covered agenda items including a review of the meeting agenda, announcement of new employees, and a presentation regarding the Edge Grant. Key discussions involved receiving October kudos, sharing good news updates such as staff professional achievements and contest winners, and presentations from guest executive leaders. Sandra Jacobson presented on the Annual Giving Campaign, detailing various ways to donate and a matching challenge. Kimberly Lambert-Thomas provided an update on the budget and campus-wide projects, noting financial challenges such as high inflation and declining enrollment, while discussing budget planning for FY24 and FY25, and updates on the Gator Expansion projects and TxDOT NHHIP. Chief Casey Davis and Cynthia Vargas presented on Public Safety and Emergency Management, covering holiday shopping safety tips, the SafeZone app, and efforts to address criminal activity near Allen's Landing. April Frank provided updates on the College Release/Staff Education Reimbursement Program, including eligibility and application processes. Staff Council business included updates on the Travel Policy (resolving the Provost signature requirement for the Embargo Form) and a poll regarding relocating holiday door decorations. Community engagement opportunities included a Toy Drive.

The meeting included a review and approval of the July Meeting Minutes, a brief introduction of the Executive Officers for FY 26, and introductions for new employees. Guest panelists from Human Resources discussed Performance Evaluation Cycles, noting the platform transition to ePerformance (formerly MyTalentSpace) and that the evaluation period for the coming cycle will be January through December 2025. Significant discussion focused on the merit raise timelines, where it was confirmed that the required 3% student credit hour increase for Fall 2025 was not met, making merit increases unlikely unless future board approval alters the plan. A representative from Benefits and Wellness presented on Current Wellness Initiatives, including updates on the Your Money Line App and details regarding an upcoming Flu Clinic. Staff Council business covered old business regarding bylaw review (SC Resolution No. SC-25-01), new business including the Staff Grievance Committee Election and the search for a new Staff Ombuds, and a call for committee volunteers. Staff engagement opportunities and shared news were also reviewed.

The meeting included the introduction of new employees and presentation of the Edge Grant recipient for January. Key discussions involved updates from the Facilities Management panel regarding elevator modernization, office trash pickup schedules (specifically noting Metroclean contract renewal and exceptions for trash placement), restroom updates, and the submission of a work request for toilet seat replacement. The Benefits and Compensation panel provided an overview of wellness initiatives, including the Get Fit Texas Challenge, Buena Vida Wellness App, and new platforms for fitness/wellness leave. The Annual Giving panel discussed the #ILoveUHD Initiative. Staff Council business covered old business items such as archiving a DBA staff concern, updating on the Dining Services RFP process, proposed bylaw amendments, progress on the Staff Climate Survey 2025, and performance evaluation timelines. New business focused on the anticipated rescission of the AWA Policy and remote work updates, including parking discount discontinuation and flexible work options, with an official announcement pending. Several engagement opportunities scheduled for February and early March were also reviewed.