As I take on the role of Staff Council President, I find myself reflecting on the journey that has led me here. Over the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of growing alongside this institution, which has become so much more than just a place of employment. For me, the university is home. It is where I built my career, formed lasting relationships, and discovered a sense of purpose that has driven me every day.

This university has an unwavering commitment to its people. With more than nine thousand non-bargaining staff members, we are the backbone of this institution, and without us, the university would not function. In countless ways, each of us contributes to the success of this vital community.

And yet, we know that staff are facing real, pressing challenges. From burnout and workload stress to the strain of balancing work and caregiving—especially in a post-pandemic world—these are not just abstract issues. They affect people’s day-to-day lives. There’s also the quieter, but no less powerful, experience of feeling disconnected or unseen in the workplace. These are the areas where I believe we must—and can—move the needle: by strengthening and fostering a true culture of belonging and recognition that leads to long-term retention. A sense of belonging is essential—not just for retention and morale, but for the long-term health and excellence of our university.

We are living in an age of both disruption and unprecedented opportunity. Across higher education and beyond, the ground is shifting—but within that change lies a unique moment to reimagine how we work, collaborate, and thrive. The university of Iowa is well-positioned to not just navigate this change, but to lead. We are a university on the rise—growing our mission and continuing to deliver extraordinary value to our students, our community, and the world.

We are distinct in our strengths. With one of the highest student retention rates in the Big Ten, we are providing access to life-changing education at scale. Our research is nationally recognized—from groundbreaking work in writing and brain science, to advances in cancer research that are saving lives. This is a place where innovation is not just welcomed, but expected.

And we’re making smart, strategic choices while we continue to grow and support initiatives including those aimed at retaining and developing our existing workforce.

That’s where Staff Council comes in. We must support and expand programs that retain our dedicated employees, while leveraging our current talent to provide even better service to our departments. 

As Staff Council President, my goal is to lead with resilience and compassion—qualities that have always defined this community. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our voices are heard and that we continue to advocate for a work environment where all staff can thrive.

I grew up in Sweden, and when I first joined the university , I was just beginning to find my footing. My first role at the university was at the Obermann Center, and one of my fondest memories is of the director and I, paintbrushes in hand, moving from the Oakdale Campus into our new house on Church Street. We spent days painting, planning, strategizing, and breathing life into a space that would become a cornerstone of my professional journey. That humble beginning laid the foundation for all the growth I would later experience within this institution.

Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in multiple colleges—from the College of Dentistry to the College of Law, and now, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Each step in my journey has deepened my belief in the power of this place.

The University of Iowa is not just an institution. It is a community of remarkable people—where staff find camaraderie, purpose, and the unwavering support of one another. It is a place that celebrates the achievements of women in sports, embraces its educational mission with pride, and exemplifies a spirit of cooperation.

As we step into this new chapter, I promise to lead with heart and with a steadfast dedication to the betterment of our university .  Thank you for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity. Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for our university and for all those who call it home.

Neda Barrett,