Staff Advisory CouncilAnnual Staff Assembly

Wednesday, April 29, 20152015 Election Candidates

Chad CaldwellIt is with great enthusiasm that I accept the nomination for a position on the SAC. Roughly three years ago my journey as a professional started here at FGCU. Development and growth are an essential part of being a successful professional and SAC provides the opportunity for both. Through the last three year I have served on the ADA Committee, became an advisor for 2 of our sport clubs, and chaired multiple Campus Recreation committees. SAC would give the chance to collaborate with other divisions at FGCU, broaden skill sets, and become a better asset to the University.Being selected for a position among twenty- three other professionals representing six divisions at FGCU would be an honor. Thank you for your nomination and consideration for a position on SAC.

Administrative & Professional

Nicole Catalfamo

Administrative & Professional

I began at FGCU in 2010 as a graduate student in the College of Business. During my studies I worked in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships as a graduate assistant and upon graduation, I transitioned into a full-time FGCU employee. I currently work as a coordinator in the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and have held a position on the Staff Advisory Council (SAC) for the last 2 years. During my time on SAC over the last two years I have been an active member of the Special Events Committee and also co-chaired the committee for the 2014-15 year. I have also contributed to the One Book, One Campus committee, and helped in the design and implementation of the re-designed SAC website. I would love to continue on SAC for another 2 years as an active member striving to facilitate effective communication throughout the University!

Keith FernanderI have been in higher education for more than 10 years because I enjoy working in the university community. I earned a Ph.D. in Higher Education Administration from the University of North Texas; I also received a B.S. and M.S. degree in Communications from Florida State University. I began my professional career as an admission counselor in which I represented a university and assisted students with the enrollment process. I joined FGCU as the Associate Director of Admissions Operations in 2012 where I continue to enjoy helping people become a part of this extraordinary institution.

I am a SAC candidate because I believe my experience and love for the university would be a resource the council could utilize as it deals with issues impacting our community. I’ll work hard to understand the nature of problems impacting our staff, and the institution, and assess the effect of decisions or solutions on all constituencies. FGCU is a great work place because I find my colleagues across campus are responsive to both individual and organizational needs; moreover, they are genuinely committed to helping FGCU reach its goals. I hope to contribute to the university by serving on this council in whatever capacity needed.

Administrative & Professional

Parker FruehanI have been working at FGCU in Library Services since 2011. I began my career at FGCU as support staff, working the busy customer service desk during nights and weekends. During this time I served and became acquainted with faculty, staff and students from FGCU and beyond. Currently, I am a Coordinator, Computer Applications in the Library Computing and Technology Systems department. In my day to day duties I have had the opportunity to interact with staff from units all over campus. I hold a Bachelor of Music Education and a Masters in Library and Information Studies from Florida State University. I hope to one day pursue a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership. As a life-long student, I am passionate about furthering the cause of higher education. I recognize the vital contribution that staff make in supporting student success at FGCU. I would be delighted to serve the staff at FGCU as a part of the Staff Advisory Council.I originally hail from greater Detroit, Michigan, but have lived in beautiful Southwest Florida for over 12 years now. I live in Cape Coral with my beautiful wife, two energetic children, two dogs and a cat.

Administrative & Professional

Nicholas GalloMy name is Nicholas Gallo and I work in the Business Technology Services (BTS) department. I have been with FGCU since early 2012. I am very excited to run again for SAC and pleased to continue to have the opportunity to work on issues affecting our campus community. I am very proud of what we have been able to accomplish as SAC in the last two years; this last year serving as SAC VP. There is still work to be done to improve SAC and the campus – but we should be proud of how far we have come! Thank you for offering me the opportunity of running again for SAC.

Administrative & Professional

Cal Chapman MajureCal holds degrees from Hinds Community College, Middle Tennessee State, and Bowling Green State Universities respectively. Since 2004, Cal has worked professionally in a variety of capacities in higher education including Fraternity and Sorority Life, Campus Activities, Leadership Development, New Student and Family Programs, Financial Aid, and Undergraduate Admissions through positions at BGSU, FGCU, George Mason, and FSW. Cal began his career at FGCU in 2008 and returned in 2014 after a brief set of professional adventures away from FGCU. Cal is highly involved at FGCU and in the community outside of work as a member of both the FGCU Alumni Association and the Eagles’ Club in addition to being in his seventh year as serving as Chapter Counselor for the FL Omicron Chapter of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity at FGCU. Cal is excited to be part of SAC so that he can help make working at FGCU as rewarding for everyone as it is for him and is thankful for the nomination and eager to serve if selected for the committee this year.

Administrative & Professional

Lauren SchuetzI became a staff member at FGCU in August of 2013 as a Recruiter for Undergraduate Admissions. In my role, I spend my days traveling around Florida and the rest of the country to talk to High School students about the opportunities they can find at FGCU, as well as assist them with college counseling. I started my life as an Eagle as a student in 2008, and I received my Bachelor’s degree in Communication from FGCU in the spring of 2013. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Public Administration.

I am so excited about the potential opportunity to serve on the Staff Advisory Council. As a student at FGCU, I served in various leadership positions on campus and loved being able to be involved. I hope to continue that now as a staff member and give back while representing my fellow staff members. The connection and communication between University leadership and members of the FGCU Community is vital to our success, and I would love to be able to be a part of building those relationships. Thank you for this opportunity!

Administrative and Professional

Antoinette BiffarI joined FGCU in October 2011 as the Assistant Business Manager within the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics, handling all day-to-day transactions as it relates to the fifteen NCAA Division I sports. My day-to-day duties include budget analysis and reporting, accounts payable, expense reimbursement, and travel reconciliation. I have broadened my scope of responsibility by having an increased role in corporate sponsorship and fundraising efforts and events. As a member of the inaugural cross country program, from 2002 to 2006, I have been involved with FGCU Athletics, to different extents, ever since. Prior to my business responsibilities, I served as a volunteer assistant to Head Cross Country coach Cassandra Goodson from 2008-2012 aiding in an operations capacity with team travel and logistics. I have obtained two degrees from FGCU, and working on a third, with a Bachelor of Science in Athletic Training (2006) and Bachelor of Science in Finance (2009). Currently, I am seeking my MBA at FGCU with an anticipated graduation of Spring 2016.

Support Personnel

Diane Bova

Hi! My name is Diane Bova and I am a native New Englander from Central Vermont. In 2013 I traded in my snow shovel and winter boots for a shell scoop and flip-flops, and with my husband and the last (and youngest) of our 6 children, we moved to sunny South Fort Myers! I started here at FGCU in November 2013 in the Honors Program and I love working with such amazing, engaged, and passionate students and faculty. Recently I have had the opportunity to be part of several committees on campus – including one to review and update the UGS Mission and Vision statement. It was a great experience and I enjoyed working with, and getting to know others across Undergraduate Studies. I think being a part of SAC would be another way to gain exposure to other staff and offices on the FGCU campus and step outside of the little Honors bubble I am in!

Support Personnel

Kelly DavisOriginally from Plaistow, New Hampshire, I moved to Port Charlotte, Florida in 2004. I learned about FGCU in 2010, and decided to continue on with my higher education, earning my B.A. in English and, staying with FGCU, I expect to graduate with my M.A. in English this December.

Currently, I work as a program assistant for the College of Education, assisting with data collection and reporting of assessments and evaluations, as well as assisting with program accreditation and program approval efforts (SACS, CAEP, BOG to name a few).

I enjoy participating in on-campus events and efforts, including (previously and currently): 50- Mile Fly by Night Relay, St. Baldrick’s Day (Shavee), Commencement Volunteer, Food Pantry Volunteer, Constitution Day (Actor Participant), Eagle News (Previously a Staff Writer).I am always looking for opportunities for personal and professional growth and development, and I look forward to the new opportunities that SAC has to offer, not only for myself but for the opportunity to contribute back to the staff at FGCU.

Support Personnel

Sharon LowtherI am the Office Manager of New Student Programs, having begun my position at FGCU in March 2014. I have held a variety of jobs throughout my career, including 7 years in higher education as campus information and public safety manager, customer service manager at a zoo, business owner and community volunteer.

I was born and raised in northern Minnesota and lived most of my adult life in Fargo, ND. (Ya, like the movie). I have really enjoyed the short time that I have been in Florida; the FGCU community has been very welcoming.

I was honored (and a bit surprised) to be nominated for SAC, but would consider it a great opportunity if elected. I have experience in event coordinating and I’ve served on many committees throughout my career, including my involvement on the Staff Development Committee in the Division of Student Affairs. I enjoy collaborating with others to find solutions and reach consensus on important issues, and would use my strengths and experience to continue to advocate for fellow staff members in creating a supportive and positive work environment. Thank you for offering me this opportunity!

Support Personnel

Brooke NiarchosMy name is Brooke Niarchos. I’ve been with FGCU for a little over a year and a half working in the Foundation department. I was born and raised in Elkhart, IN. I moved to Florida in August 2009 to be with my now husband. FGCU has been a part of my life since the day I moved here. My first job in Florida was working in Advancement with Events. I loved the people, the atmosphere and everything FGCU encompassed. Unfortunately, I had to leave the job, but never truly left FGCU. Between my family and friends who are a part of the FGCU community, I became a part of FGCU as well. I would participate in events and attend different sports events. My husband also works on campus and our daughter attends the FRC. I’m so happy to be back and for the opportunities that FGCU has provided to me and my family. I’m honored to be nominated for SAC and would love to be able to give back to the University that has given my family so much. I look forward to the opportunity to work with and for my fellow staff and making a difference on campus.

Support Personnel

Oscar Nieves-Martir

My name is Oscar Nieves Martir. I have been a part of the FGCU team for a little over a year, working as a Help Desk technician with Business Technology Services. Before FGCU I was a Staff Sergeant in the US Army, where I also worked as a Computer Technician for eight years. As you can tell, helping people is something that I have done for a long time, and is something that I enjoy very much. I separated from the Army to be able to spend more time with my family, as well as enjoy my children while they are still children; since I have 4, spending as much time with them as possible is of great importance to me. One of the things that I love the most about my career is being able to interact with users and assist them with any issues they may have. I’m very excited about the opportunity to serve as a member of the SAC team, as I view being a part of SAC as an extension of what I do on a daily basis.

Support Personnel

Darina NikolovI joined FGCU seven years ago, just six months after I moved to the U.S. from Bulgaria. I feel FGCU is my second home and family. I began my career at FGCU at the College of Education as Executive Secretary for three years. For the past four years, I have been the Office Manager for the SBDC at the Lutgert College of Business. When I joined the SBDC, I concurrently earned my MBA and have had two children. I have worked with some amazing individuals, learned from great teachers and mentors, and have always been supported by my supervisors and coworkers, who encourage and believe in me, even when I have had doubts. I believe we all influence each other. I want to be a positive influence in other people’s lives and help make changes for the betterment of the wonderful staff, which is one of the most valuable assets of FGCU. I believe there is still much to be done in the area of career path in our institution and would like to make a difference and support SAC’s mission for open and effective communication. I’m honored to be nominated and will be delighted to be part of SAC!•

Support Personnel

Tiffany ReynoldsI started at Florida Gulf Coast University in the fall of 2001 as a student and have been here ever since. I completed my undergraduate degree in Psychology in 2005 and began working for FGCU as an OPS in 2006. In 2008, I started full time and completed my M.A. in School Counseling in 2011. I am currently the Administrative Assistant for the Office of Undergraduate Studies and I love my job! I get to work with amazing staff, faculty, and students across the campus. It’s hard to believe that altogether, I have been at FGCU for almost 14 years now! In that time, I have been fortunate enough to see how much this school has grown and I am eager to see where we are going.

I was very excited and honored when I found out that I had been nominated for SAC as I have always been interested in being a part of it. I believe that being a member of SAC would allow me the opportunity to provide my experience and skills in a way that I could serve the needs of my colleagues and the overall mission of FGCU. It would also give me the chance to give back to the community that has given so much to me.

Support Personnel

Staff Advisory CouncilAnnual Staff Assembly

Proposed Charter Changes

SAC Demographics

SAC will represent a reasonable mix of divisions within the university

Of the 24 SAC seats, 16 of these shall be based on division, the remaining 8 are considered at-large

Meeting Notifications

Extending the notification requirement to 10 days from 7. As Sunshine Law requires 7 day notice but sometimes we have to go out 10 days if the 7th day is a Monday holiday. This change also allows us not to state a time of day items will be due by on the seventh day.

Removal of Members for Non-Attendance

The SAC President may remove a SAC Representative for just cause. Three (3) absences from SAC meetings within a fiscal year will be considered cause for removal.

Mechanics

Standardization and grammar fixes.

YAY GRAMMAR