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History of Staff Governance

A national accreditation team required a self-study be conducted at Virginia Tech in 1987. Included were questions concerning the quality of work life for staff at the university. Two critical issues emerged: the need for improved communication on policies and issues and the desire for a formal staff vehicle that would be equal with the Faculty Senate in voice and responsibility. The new governance structure with university-wide staff representation began on September 26, 1989. A constitution and bylaws were established and the newly created Staff Senate held its first meeting on September 19, 1991.

Past Staff Senate presidents

  • Serena Young 2021-2023
  • Tamarah Smith 2019-2021
  • Robert Sebek 2017-2019
  • Alex Parrish 2016-2017
  • Dan Cook 2014-2016
  • Sue Teel 2012-2014
  • Maxine Lyons 2010-2012
  • Tom Tuckey 2008-2010
  • Judy Alford 2007-2008
  • Jean Brickey 2005-2007
  • Sue Ellen Crocker 2003-2005
  • Jimmy Martin 2001-2003
  • Delbert Jones 1999-2001
  • Ben Poe 1998-1999
  • Spencer Allen 1996-1998
  • Wyatt Sasser 1995-1996
  • Fred Phillips 1995 (July-September)
  • Wyatt Sasser 1994-1995
  • Charlie Stott 1994 (July-August)
  • Sharilyn McConnell 1991-1994