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Staff Senate Source September 2025

Amanda Barnes - Wednesday, December 17, 2025
 Staff Senate Source 

September 2025

Collage of staff senate executive committee members

Growing Forward

Navigating change is a journey we all share. It can feel challenging, but it also presents a unique opportunity to grow. This month, let's explore how we can not only adapt to shifts in our workplace but also actively participate in building the future we want to see. By working together and embracing new ideas, we can turn challenges into stepping stones for innovation and success.

If you ever want to connect — to share a concern, ask a question, or just say hello — our anonymous feedback form is always open.

 

Your Staff Senate Executive Committee
Fiama Romero, Tom Hockensmith, Aaron Graham, Christina Way, Amanda Barnes, Briana Clark, Kelly Sikorski, & Michael Penney

News from Across Campus

Fall Into Success flyer for virtual professional development

Sept. 15-19: USM FREE Learning & Talent Development Conference 

A focused week of practical learning to help you lead, adapt, and thrive. Join colleagues across the University System of Maryland for timely sessions on leadership, productivity, culture, and well-being, designed for real-world use.

Click here to learn more.

UMB Reads! You never know what you'll discover in a book

Sept. 17: Join the UMB Reads! Book Club for Fall

Looking to meet new people and engage in meaningful conversations? The UMB Reads! Book Club is open to all students, staff, and faculty who want to explore ideas, build community, and reflect on our shared core values.

When: Sept. 17 at 12:15 pm
Where: Virtual discussion

Click here to learn more..

grey chat icons quotation icons speaking bubbles on a black background

Professional Development Coaching for UMB Employees

Are you interested in working with a trained coach to boost your professional performance and to enhance your well-being? Professional Development Coaching is for you.

Coaching is a confidential, personalized, one-on-one relationship between a trained coach and employee. It is designed to help individuals reach their professional goals, overcome challenges, and maximize wellness.

If you are interested in learning more about the Professional Development Coaching service, visit the website.

For questions about this service, please email Michelle Pearce, PhD, at michelle.pearce@umaryland.edu.

WJZ School Supply Drive Graphic

UMB Back-to-School Supply Drive

It's back-to-school season! In partnership with Baltimore's WJZ-TV, the University of Maryland, Baltimore's Staff Senate Community Outreach Committee and the Office of Community and Civic Engagement are running their annual school supply drive to provide essential supplies to students in West Baltimore.

Donate online today.

Blue person walking with a blue and green circle around them.

Walking Wednesdays

Walking Wednesdays take place every other Wednesday from roughly noon to 12:45 p.m. Anyone is welcome to participate as we walk around the UMB campus, meeting outside the Lexington Building. Once per month, we are joined by PFC Anthony Summers and comfort K-9 Poe. To join the Walking Wednesdays Channel in the Sustainability Community Team, click here. Please note: If you are from the School of Medicine, send a request to join to sustainability@umaryland.edu.

 

Two people picking up trash on a sidewalk

Oct. 1: Campus Cleanup

As part of Campus Sustainability Month, join the Office of Sustainability for a campus cleanup. Drop by our basecamp at the beginning of your shift to check in and get supplies. Swing back by the basecamp at the end of your shift to drop off your full bags! If you are a staff member who is interested in using 1-4 hours of paid volunteer leave for this event, you can view and print the required paperwork found on the Community Engagement website.

Register here. 

UMB Staff Senator Spotlight

Spotlight shining on employee Michael Penney Manager, Facility Service Center, Operations and Maintenance

What’s something you’ve accomplished on the Staff Senate during your time as a Senator?
As a new Staff Senator, and in my role as the Operations Officer, I would like at the end of my tenure to have helped in creating a process that will streamline processes and ensure continuity of activities and projects..

What’s a fun vacation that you’ve taken or would like to take?
One of my most memorable vacations is always going back home (Ghana) exploring the vibrant culture and history of my people. In the future, I’d love to explore Greece, enjoying the islands, history, and stunning blue waters

What’s your most prized possession and why?
My most prized possession is the house I am “building” in Ghana. The reason is that it’s a constant reminder of how I started everything from scratch, knowing how the place looked when I started, and knowing where it is now, and how I want it to look when I am done. Hopefully, my retirement Home!

What’s the theme song to your life? 
“Eye of the Tiger”—a constant reminder to stay focused, push through challenges, and keep striving toward success with determination. Knowing where I am coming from and having in mind where I am going, I need to stay focused no matter what comes my way.

See You Soon!

Our next meeting is Thursday, October 2nd from noon to 2 p.m.
All UMB staff members are welcome and encouraged to attend.

group photo of Staff Senate at February 2025 retreat
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