The composition differs, as does the membership. In addition to faculty members, we have two students, an emeritus professor, the president and vice president of academic affairs. Other campuses may structure their senate differently. We elect the chair and appoint committee members.

I think it’s important to be a visible academic chair. I try to network and bring in others. I advocate for the senate and try to encourage others to become involved.

I also am proud of the number of faculty members who have stayed here for so many years. They have become the institutional memory for the campus. What I find very rewarding is the number of emeriti, as well as faculty members close to retirement, who still volunteer for this committee and others. To me, that represents a commitment to this campus and to students. That sort of loyalty and sense of purpose are what can set a campus apart.