“With great power comes great responsibility,” said the wise Aunt May (or Uncle Ben, depending on where you are in the Spider-verse) in “Spider-Man.” These words ring true when it comes to serving as chair and vice chair of the Staff Senate. What an honor it was to serve as chair, both as interim in 2019 and for a full term from 2021–23. During that time, I got to participate in the presidential search process, serve as Staff Liaison to the Board of Visitors, be part of an action group to respond to the governor’s telework policy, provide feedback on proposed dependent tuition benefits, and complete my term with senators earning continued education credits for the first time.
It’s with tears of pride that I pass the torch to William (Will) Gautney, Assistant Master Electrician, Center for the Arts. Will has just completed his first two-year term as a senator and made such an impact with his engagement that his peers nominated him to lead them as chair. I have no doubt that Will will continue to make big strides for the senate and constituency.
But with every great superhero there is their equal partner. I could not have been successful in these efforts without my vice chair, Jessica (Jessi) Adams. Her passion and “can-do” attitude helped me get through some challenging times. I know she feels mixed emotions too as she passes the torch to Jacquelyn (Jackie) Sims, assistant registrar for operations, Office of the University Registrar. Jacquelyn’s customer care keeps the “heart” within the senate during challenging times.
I am confident Will and Jackie will be incredible leaders of the Staff Senate. I look forward to now supporting them as they did for me during my term.
Sincerely,
Erin Iacangelo, Outgoing Staff Senate Chair
We often use the term “journey” when illustrating significant times in our life; the “path ahead,” “winding roads,” “stepping stones,” or “bridges” that take us, guide us, or carry us to a particular destination. And then, of course the destination itself is usually a defined point in our life that carries an important lesson as well, and that is true for my time as Staff Senate vice chair from 2021–2023. However, while many people consider the journey and the destination, I like to consider the scenery, a peek between the branches to the hidden overlooks, valleys, flowers and waterfalls that may be hiding just beyond the path. To me, these are the people we have had the pleasure to meet and learn from during our time in leadership!
While the big milestones that Erin touched on are amazing feats for the Mason staff community, it is often the times when we hear of your individual triumphs, as well as trials and tribulations, that hold a place in our hearts and minds. It is through your candidness and vulnerability that we are able to really share the truth and lives of the Mason staff and make the biggest impact, from the ground up! Through interactions and conversations with you—our constituency, fellow senators, Mason leadership, and the many changemakers and pathbreakers—we have found the biggest opportunities for growth, here at Mason.
Most significant of these is the time spent with Erin Iacangelo. It was through a chance conversation with Erin that I decided to join Staff Senate in 2019. So, when I was provided the opportunity to be vice chair alongside Erin as chair in 2021, it was a full circle moment and a true honor!
Now, it is time that we step aside and support Will and Jackie as they take the reins. I truly believe that through their leadership, staff will continue to feel they have a safe space and are valued members of the Mason community through timely communication that will inform them of what is happening at Mason. Staff will feel free to have open dialogue and feel heard and appreciated for their contributions to Mason, big or small, no matter their role at the university.
Sincerely,
Jessica Adams, Outgoing Staff Senate Vice Chair
