The University Relations Committee strengthens relationships between Staff Council, campus shared governance organizations, and peer institutions. Through collaboration, outreach, and information sharing, the committee promotes awareness of Staff Council initiatives, supports shared governance efforts, and helps build meaningful connections across the University of Iowa community.
Meet the Committee Members
Ann Lawler
Bridget Toomey, Executive Committee Member At-Large 2026-2027
Ashly Lagneaux
University Relations Committee | 2025-26 Impact
During the 2025–26 council year, the University Relations Committee expanded engagement with shared governance groups across campus, strengthened relationships with peer institutions through the Big Ten Academic Alliance (BTAA), and completed a comprehensive update of the university's Shared Governance website. These efforts improved access to information, increased collaboration among governance groups, and enhanced awareness of shared governance opportunities throughout the university community.
6 Collegiate Visits
100% BTAA PARTICIPATION
SHARED GOVERNANCE WEBSITE OVERHAUL
Contact Information:
For questions, please contact
ann-lawler@uiowa.edu
bridget-toomey@uiowa.edu
Chairs:
Ann Lawler
Bridget Toomey
Purpose:
- Endeavor to establish and maintain working relationships between University shared governance bodies.
- Foster good relationships among local, state, and national officials and the University, in collaboration with the Executive Committee and in conjunction with Faculty Senate’s Governmental Relations Committee.
- Research and share findings on new methods and improvements to shared governance models.
Scope of Concern:
- Attendance at Org. shared governance meetings.
- Identify shared governance group contacts.
- Keep shared governance portal up to date.
- Investigate and compare shared governance models of peer institutions to our own.
Highlights:
- Attend shared governance meetings across campus to stay informed on university priorities, represent staff perspectives, and strengthen collaboration between Staff Council and other governance groups.
- Participate in Big Ten Collaboration on Staff Advocacy meetings to connect with peer institutions, share best practices, and advance initiatives that support and elevate staff voices across the conference.
