Candidate Introductions
Candidates running for Staff Council positions are invited to submit a statement about who they are, how they serve the university, and why they are running for Staff Council. Below are the submitted statements organized by EEO Job Category. Scroll through the page or use the menu filter options to view candidates in specific EEO categories. Candidates are listed alphabetically by last name.
Filter Panel
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Administrative
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Professional
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Secretarial/Clerical
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Service
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Skilled Worker
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Technical/Paraprofessional
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EEO Category: Professional
Santiago Arellano
Student Development Specialist II, Dean of StudentsMy name is Jay Arellano and have worked in the Dean of Students office since 2021. As an alumnus of the Texas State MSW program in 2013, I have made my career my passion, which is advocating for others. My goal in any situation is to make a positive impact in someone's life. I hope to bring that mentality to the staff council. As a policy-focused practitioner and life long learner, I am ABD in my PhD program in educational leadership and policy at Texas Tech University. If elected, I look forward to serving our Texas State University staff to assure our voices are heard and grow on the strong foundation that has been set.
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EEO Category: Professional
Morgan Bennett
Academic Advisor I, First Year AdvisingI have been working at Texas State for 7 months now as an Academic Advisor I with First-Year Advising. Through this position I have had the opportunity to connect with both new and well established colleagues here at Texas State. My motivation for pursuing advising as well as working in higher education comes from my desire to be an advocate and resource for my peers and students alike. In the past I served as Senator for off-campus students in the Student Association while pursuing my bachelor's degree at the University at Albany, SUNY. As an off campus student Senator I was able to voice the concerns and frustrations of my peers and create an outlet for commuter students to have their voices heard on a majority residential campus. This resulted in productive meetings with campus parking services and the office of Student Affairs to help alleviate stressors for commuter students and foster a sense of community for that population. This prior experience has given me the opportunity to hone skills that I believe would lend well to a Staff Council position here at Texas State. I have come to know and love the university, and I am excited to continue not only this chapter of my professional career, but to continue my academic career as a MSW student starting this Fall semester. The sense of community on campus among the students and the staff alike have inspired me, and I cannot wait to get more involved!
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EEO Cateogry: Skilled Worker
Jason Beuhler
Head Distribution Electrician, Utility OperationsI have worked at TXST for 8 months. I have enrolled in classes at TXST to pursue a management degree. My current job has me dealing with electrical issues that arise on a daily basis. I enjoy being involved in campus decisions that may affect coworkers. I would love to serve our campus in this capacity.
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EEO Category: Secretarial/Clerical
Debbie Bilbrey
Admin Assistant III, Learning SpacesI have been employed by ITAC-Learning Spaces since my first day at Texas State University in November 2008, 15 years. I have been a member at large on Staff Council for the last year and would very much like to continue to serve and contribute.
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EEO Category: Professional
Jenna Bottorf
Accountant III, Student Business Services & BursarsHello! I am new to TXST with next week marking 7 months working here, however, I have some history with my parent having retired from the University! While I am new to TXST, I am very eager to learn more about the University and the variety of staff positions that make us whole. I am aiming to grow in my position, expand my current knowledge and hopefully make some friends along the way. I have a background in Parliamentary Procedure and feel I would enjoy well-run meetings like Staff Council. I am a good-hearted person who appreciates promoting a positive work-life balance and enjoying where you work. I do not have a professional photo, though it is on my to-do list to visit the professional headshot photo booth to obtain one.
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EEO Category: Administrative
Jill Bruner
Asst Dir - Student Health Ctr, University Health ServicesI have been with TXST for two years as the Assistant Director of Clinical Services with University Health Services. I excel at team leadership, crisis management, and identifying inefficiencies to optimize workflows with process improvement. I am an excellent collaborator within my own department and with others across the University. I feel most situations can be deescalated with a little bit of humor and a lot of compassion. I am extremely organized and believe there is nothing that cannot be color coordinated, because everything looks better in color!
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EEO Category: Professional
Stephanie Daniels
Coord - Marketing & Promotions, Transportation ServicesStephanie earned her M.Ed. from Texas State University in 2012. After a year in the math department, she transferred to Transportation Services. Stephanie loves helping students learn their way around campus and San Marcos and exploring new transit options like federal grants, scooters, and biking. Stephanie has previously served on Staff Council, both as a member and as the Vice Chair. An additional appointment would be excellent addition to the Staff Council because of her diverse experience and deep commitment to the university community. With her background in education and her current role in Transportation Services, Stephanie has an understanding of both academic and operational aspects of campus life.
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EEO Category: Professional
Zachary Denny
Academic Advisor I, First Year AdvisingI have been at TXST for roughly seven months after being a high school English teacher. I would be a great addition to Staff Council because I understand the need for and importance of advocacy work. In my personal time I help run a local non-profit. I've worked both in corporate backgrounds as well as education, which gives me a very unique viewpoint when approaching both challenges and collaborations.
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EEO Category: Professional
Michael Ellis
Program Manager, Facilities ManagementI am delighted to accept my nomination for the Staff Council. I bring a diverse background and a steadfast commitment to excellence.
My journey at Texas State University started over 7 years ago when I joined the University Libraries as the Manager of the Archives and Research Center (ARC). Currently, I serve as the QA Manager in Facilities Management.
Prior to my tenure at Texas State, I spent over 20 years in retail management and entrepreneurship. Throughout my career, I held leadership positions where I focused on operational efficiency and team alignment. My success in leadership stems from my ability to develop and enforce operational standards while nurturing a sense of purpose among diverse teams.
I will strive to challenge the rules when necessary and support equitable fairness for all.
Thank you for your consideration.
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EEO Category: Secretarial/Clerical
Zakiya Gentry
Administrative Asst II, Office of Educator PreparationMy name is Zakiya Gentry. As I approach my one-year mark at TXST in the Office of Educator Preparation, I am eager to contribute to the Staff Council. With a sincere dedication to listening, understanding the needs of others, and fostering positivity, I am committed to facilitating positive change. I will represent the voices of all staff members, no matter their position. Emphasizing opportunities for growth and striving for optimal outcomes for everyone, I am confident that together, we can cultivate a supportive and flourishing workplace community.
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EEO Category: Technical/Paraprofessional
Juan Gomez Ortega
Scientific Instrument Tech, PhysicsMy name is Juan Gomez Ortega, and I have been working for the Department of Physics at Texas State University since 2018. During my time here, I have been deeply committed to promoting the growth and development of our students and fostering a supportive academic environment.
I believe I would be a valuable addition to the Staff Council because I am dedicated to the safety and well-being of everyone in our research service center. I recognize the importance of the staff's voice and believe it deserves to be heard and considered more attentively. One of my key proposals is the implementation of a Staff Advancement Ladder. This initiative would provide staff members with a structured pathway for professional growth, allowing them to progress within the organization based on their experience and education.
To support this proposal, we have benchmarked universities benefiting from the Texas University Fund (TUF) and found that many have a progression ladder for technical staff. Implementing a similar framework at Texas State University would be both exciting and motivational for our technical staff. It would aid in employee retention and attract new talent to our institution.
Outside of my departmental duties, I have taken on leadership roles by coordinating and acting as a point of contact for outreach events, including Bobcat Day and Physics Week. These activities reflect my commitment to creating a supportive and engaging community within the academic environment.
I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to serve on the Staff Council and contribute to the continued growth and success of Texas State University. -
EEO Category: Technical/Paraprofessional
Michelle Hernandez
Business Ops Specialist, University Business AmbassadorsHello, I'm Michelle Hernandez, and I've been a part of the Bobcat family for six years. As a first-generation graduate student who is currently enrolled in the Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies Organization Workforce Leadership studies (OWLS) program here at TXST, I am deeply committed to enhancing our university's processes and reputation. I aspire to join Staff Council to support change and to advocate for improved treatment of university employees. While students rightfully receive significant attention, it's crucial to recognize the invaluable contributions of staff members who sustain the university's operations. As a staff and student representative, I believe I can play a pivotal role in driving improvements in both areas to enhance student success and support employee satisfaction. I believe there are untapped opportunities to elevate the status and appreciation of our dedicated staff.
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EEO Category: Secretarial/Clerical
Melissa Herrera
Sr Admin Assistant, College of Applied ArtsMy name is Melissa Herrera I have worked at TXST for 8 years and I am a TXST Alumni. I am also one of the rare unicorn people who is also a San Marcos Local, I was born and raised here in San Marcos, Class of 2007 GO RATTLERS!
I believe I would be a good addition to the staff council because I have been at TXST long enough to understand the variety of staff members we have and I want to do my part in making TXST a better place for all staff members across campus and Round Rock. I also believe my background as a San Marcos local, a TXST student, and a TXST staff member will give me insight into making realistic decisions that will actually be accomplished.
In my time here at TXST I have worked on the Student Success side and Academic Affairs sides of the University and again I believe this gives me a great outlook on the different sides of the University and all the different types of staff members we have and what they need. -
EEO Category: Professional
Alyssa Livernois
Research Coordinator, College of Applied ArtsMy name is Alyssa Livernois and I've been welcomed by Texas State University in 2022 where I truly believe it's the best place to work. It is my privilege to serve as the Research Coordinator for the College of Applied Arts and it's my honor to serve my faculty and staff every day. Because of the compassionate and friendly environment on campus that was shown to me, I want to make it my mission in Staff Council to continue this vision created before me so future staff can enjoy being here. I will strive to serve a great council dedicated to staff that make our university the best in Texas.
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EEO Category: Professional
Kate Malazonia
Publications Writer, The Graduate CollegeI have been a full-time staff member at TXST for one year. As a prior TXST student-athlete, student worker, and a new staff member, I have been affiliated with many different departments/divisions across TXST including the TXST Student Health Center, McCoy College of Business, The Graduate College, University Writing Center, and the Department of Political Science. These recent experiences give me a multi-faceted perspective; one which considers the varying needs of staff members and how specific policies may impact our wider university community.
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EEO Category: Professional
Alana McCloskey
Major Gift Officer, VP for University Advancement -
EEO Category: Secretarial/Clerical
Abigail Miller
Sr Admin Asst, Asst VP for Research DevelopmentI have enjoyed serving as administrative support at TXST for over six years with the College of Science and Engineering Academic Advising Center, The Graduate College, and now in my role as a Senior Administrative Assistant with Research Development. I believe the staff community is an important investment and want to encourage broader participation in campus processes and communication across departments. I would love the opportunity to use my knowledge of administrative duties and experience connecting with stakeholders to support staff across the university in Staff Council.
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EEO Category: Professional
Jason O'Brien
Grant Senior Coordinator, Academic EngagementSince 2011, I've held various roles at Texas State University, including Academic Advisor I in the College of Science and Engineering and Academic Advisor II in the University Advising Center. Currently, I serve as a Senior Program Coordinator for Academic Engagement in the Division of Student Success. During my time at TXST, I've benefited from tremendous mentorship, professional growth opportunities, and staff benefits. As a staff council representative, I'm eager to advocate for my colleagues to continue experiencing the same opportunities and explore ways to enhance the work experience at TXST in the future.
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EEO Category: Professional
Emma Parsley
Program Specialist, Utility OperationsEmma Parsley (she/her) is currently the Sustainability Coordinator for Texas State University and has been working at the University since 2018, full time since 2021. Emma first joined the Office of Sustainability as a student worker in Fall 2018 and has worked her way up to the full-time staff role of Sustainability Coordinator. Emma received both of her degrees from Texas State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering Technology and her Master of Science in Sustainability Studies. Emma brings a unique perspective to Staff Council not only through her sustainability lens, but also through her TXST experiences. Emma has been a TXST student, a faculty member within US 1100 and is full-time staff. Through these experiences, Emma brings a holistic perspective that is centered on her love for the environment and place-based education.
Emma is passionate about environmental conservation and the relationship between human health and environmental health. With 5 years of experience in sustainable development within higher education institutions, Emma has directed TXST Office in Sustainability into achieving the new Silver STARS rating and developed programs to not only educate the Bobcat community on sustainability, but also assists the university in waste diversion and enhancing equitable resources here at TXST. In her spare time, you can find Emma exploring the beautiful San Marcos River or taking a weekend camping trip to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. -
EEO Category: Professional
Allison Pufal
Academic Advisor I, First Year AdvisingI am a proud TXST alumni and became a professional team member in 2018. My experience as a student and now professional employee will serve as knowledge base in working with staff council. I enjoy serving our bobcat community with great pride and want to continue supporting opportunities to elevate our awesome university. I strive to be a professional, supportive, and collaborative employee. Staff council would be a great place to continue this and an opportunity to learn from other knowledgeable TXST staff. Outside of work I enjoy hanging out with friends, crafting, or trying a new recipe.
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EEO Category: Technical/Paraprofessional
Corey Weber
Coord - Microcomputer Lab II, EnglishI have been at Texas State University for 11 years and have previously held a position on Staff Council some years ago. I feel like it is time for another round of service.
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EEO Category: Secretarial/Clerical
Cynthia Wilson
Grant Senior Secretary, Academic ServicesMy name is Cindy Wilson and I've been working at TXST since February of this year. I am the grant senior secretary for Generación STEM, Proyecto Excelencia and Project Maestros. I enjoy helping others, problem solving and learning about the university and everything that it offers to its employees, students and the community. I'm a good listener, a detailed communicator and an efficient multi-tasker. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, hiking, cooking, and listening to all of the free music that is offered in the area.