The Education Committee supports councilor onboarding, development, and engagement by providing resources, training opportunities, and programs that help Staff Council members succeed in their roles. Through orientation, mentorship, committee education, and constituent communication resources, the committee helps councilors build connections, understand Staff Council processes, and effectively represent staff across the university.

Meet the Committee Members

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Casey Westlake

Title/Position
Function Representative
Marketing, Communication & Outreach
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Tom Hicks

Title/Position
Organizational Representative
College of Education
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Ann Lawler

Title/Position
Function Representative
Research; Scientific Services
Sarah Livesay

Sarah Livesay

Title/Position
Function Representative
Administration; Audit, Compliance, Legal & Risk
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Ali McCue

Title/Position
Function Representative
Behavioral Health; Health Care
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Alex Paternostro

Title/Position
Function Representative
Information Technology

Education Committee | 2025–26 Impact

During the 2025–26 council year, the Education Committee strengthened onboarding and engagement efforts for new and returning councilors. Through orientation, mentorship pairings, updated resources, committee education, and campus outreach opportunities, the committee helped councilors feel more connected, informed, and prepared to serve staff across the University of Iowa.

100% NEW COUNCILOR PARTICIPATION

All new councilors participated in orientation and mentorship onboarding.

29 MENTOR/MENTEE PAIRS MATCHED

Supporting new councilors through yearlong engagement, connection, and guidance.

NEW COUNCILOR RESOURCES LAUNCHED

Developed onboarding materials, committee information, updated handouts, and a new Staff Council video to support councilor engagement.

MID-YEAR CHECK-INS ADDED

Expanded the mentorship program to include mid-year matches and check-ins.

Contact Information:

For questions, please contact 
casey-westlake@uiowa.edu

Chairs:

Casey Westlake

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Purpose:

To inform staff of the existence and function of the council. To educate and provide resources to incoming and current staff council members regarding the responsibilities, operations, and functions of Staff Council.

Scope of Concern:

  1. Organize and present Council information to new staff council members through the mentorship and orientation programs.
  2. Provide education to the University Community about the function of Staff Council.

Mentor/Mentee Program:

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Oversees the Staff Council Mentor/Mentee Program, which pairs new councilors with experienced members to foster connection, build confidence, and enhance knowledge of Council operations. The program also includes guided discussions, goal-setting tools, and monthly check-ins throughout the academic year. 

Highlights:  

  • The Education Committee organizes and facilitates a mid-year Staff Council Orientation, typically held in December. This session provides an overview of Staff Council’s mission, structure, and operations, helping councilors understand their roles, responsibilities, and how to get involved.
  • Represented Staff Council at the UI Health and Well-Being Fair, connecting directly with staff to promote resources and support.