Staff Council members share statements of gratitude during the holiday season. 
 

“I am grateful for my husband and son.”
Jessica Welter
Senior Application Developer, Pharmacy Informatics
Staff Council Organization Representative, UI Health Care Affiliates 

“Those who have stepped up to lead the committees. Not glorious work but needs done and is appreciated.” 
Tammy Paulus
Strategic Sourcing Senior Purchasing Agent
Staff Council Organization Representative, Finance and Operations

“This year and always, I am deeply thankful for the incredible community around me. My family, who loves and supports me unconditionally. My friends, who bring immense joy and laughter into my life. And my colleagues, who collaborate tirelessly to overcome challenges that are bigger than any one of us. I am grateful for each and every one of the people I get the privilege of interacting with.”
Sam Mitchell
Quality Improvement Engineer, Office of the Chief Medical Officer 
Staff Council Function Representative, Administration; Audit Compliance Legal & Risk 

“I am truly grateful for the incredible colleagues I have the privilege to work alongside. Their constant positivity and teamwork approach make every project we work on better. This teamwork helps us feel closer as a group. I also appreciate the sense of achievement we share when we reach our goals together. This shared success makes our work environment positive, supportive, and motivating.”
Ann Lawler
Research Support Manager 
Staff Council Function Representative, Research; Scientific Services

“This year, my three-year-old had a short stay at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital, which gave me a firsthand look at the extraordinary care our organization provides. From the compassionate staff to the thoughtful environment created for young patients and their families, every moment reminded me of the dedication and expertise we have within University of Iowa Health Care. I’m incredibly grateful to work for an organization that not only excels in supporting our community but also offers such meaningful, personal care when it matters most.” 
Alex Paternostro
EHR Education/Implementation Specialist, Health Care Information Systems
Staff Council Function Representative, Information Technology

“I am grateful for the opportunity to work in a place that helps shape the lives of young people, serving diverse populations, that contributes to individual future success and strengthening our communities.”
Adam Walsh
Associate Director of Sport Programs
Staff Council Function Representative, Arts, Cultural & Entertainment; Athletics; Student Services; Hospitality

“I'm so grateful for our group of resilient and compassionate staff councilors who showed everyone so much grace during our transition period this year. You all made the change seamless and full of silver linings.” 
Neda Barrett
Senior HR Director, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Staff Council Vice President and Staff Council Function Representative, Human Resources

“I am thankful for my family and friends, my health, my colleagues and work/life balance! I'm also thankful for podcasts, books, music and good TV!” 
Hilary Jensen
Senior HR Specialist, University Human Resources
Staff Council Organization Representative, Administration

"With two active teens—ages 16 and 14—I’m especially thankful for free weekends this year. I’m also deeply grateful for our health, our cozy home, jobs we love, and the family and friends who make our lives so much better.” 
Kellie Digmann
Admin Services Coordinator, Staff Council

“Family, friends, colleagues, and the Iowa City community. Special thanks for Iowa City Transit for getting me around town without a car.” 
Brett Cloyd
Social Sciences and Public Policy Librarian, UI Libraries
Staff Council Secretary and Staff Council Organization Representative, UI Libraries

“Every year I am so thankful for good health, wonderful family, friends, and colleagues both on UI Staff Council and at UI Healthcare Patient Financial Services who are always there with love and support. Truly grateful to have an army of supportive people around me helping me all along to support our University and community!” 
James Jorris
Revenue Cycle Coordinator at Patient Financial Services
Staff Council President and Staff Council Function Representative, Behavioral Health; Health Care

“I am thankful for the experiences I have had at the UI. I am grateful that I have been prepared to explore opportunities and have had the privilege of engagement in myriad spaces. I am glad to have a front row seat to inspect evolution and sit in places where I am able to provide feedback. I am proud to be a part of shared governance and its continued growth at UI.”
Sara Sullivan
Senior Associate Registrar, Enrollment Management
Staff Council Function Representative, Academic Support; Libraries