In recognition of their dedication to the mission of the U of A, the U of A Staff Senate is proud to announce and celebrate four exceptional employees as the Employees of the 3rd Quarter for the 2024-25 academic year. These individuals exemplify our core values and make significant contributions to their units and the broader campus community.

Category I: Professional/Non-Faculty - Academic

Caleb Hatz — Engineering career connections coordinator, College of Engineering. Managing the First-Year Engineering Program's Mock Interview week, Hatz transitioned 50 employer volunteers and 650+ student interviews to Zoom, redesigning workflows to manage 15-20 simultaneous breakout rooms cycling participants every 30 minutes. By collaborating with university IT for secure setups and creating training for staff, students and volunteers, he improved volunteer recruitment while reducing staff alternate needs and enhancing efficiency, making the event the best in its history.

Category I: Professional/Non-Faculty Administrative

Michelle Muzilo — Assistant director of outreach and staff development, Student Affairs Wellbeing. Muzilo designed highly sought-after training sessions for University Recreation, which became a model for training in other departments throughout campus. As the chair of the Student Affairs New Professional Network, Muzilo fostered collaboration and mentorship among peers. Her leadership in Strategic Plan Objectives Committees and roles as an All University Conduct Board member and student process advocate ensure fair student support, while her 20-hour weekly commitment to The Movement dance company has nurtured student creativity.

Category III: Technical/Paraprofessional

David Parette — Research professional II, Chemistry and Biochemistry. Despite his responsibilities being limited to one building, Parette took the lead in addressing severe safety and hazardous waste violations in two laboratories and an additional room in a separate chemistry and biochemistry research building. He spearheaded the rapid cleanup of these spaces, meticulously sorting and disposing of hazardous materials to bring them into compliance, ensuring a new, non-tenured faculty member could occupy the lab without delay. Collaborating with the department's safety committee chair, Parette also drafted new procedural documents to prevent future violations, all outside his regular duties. During his 20-year tenure his technical expertise, efficiency and proactive support for faculty and students have made him indispensable.

Category IV: Skilled Crafts/Service/Maintenance

Jeremy Bowerman — Journeyman electrician, Facilities Management. During the February 2025 snowstorm, Bowerman worked extended hours under challenging conditions to ensure the campus heating system remained operational, demonstrating his critical role in maintaining essential services. Known for his high moral character throughout his 19-year tenure at the Central Utility Plant - Heating Plant, Bowerman earns respect through honesty, integrity and accountability, fostering a supportive environment for colleagues who rely on his expertise and guidance. His deep knowledge of plant operations and unwavering dedication make him an invaluable asset.

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About Staff Senate:  Created in 1976 by Board of Trustees Policy 810.1, Staff Senate and its elected senators have the responsibility of making recommendations to university leadership on any matter of staff concern, including quality of work life, the efficiency of operations, and staff service to the campus community. Staff Senate advocates in the areas of compensation, working conditions, health and wellness, fringe benefits, safety, parking, and other workplace issues. In addition, Senate works to celebrate, recognize, and give back to staff through programs such as Employees of the Quarter & Year, awards for Staff Team and Part-Time Employee of the Year, Staff Appreciation Week, the annual Staff Appreciation Picnic, Staff Senate Scholarships, and RazorGifts.

Monthly meetings are held the second Wednesday of each month from 1:30-3 p.m. and are open to the public both in-person and virtually.  Meeting details, lists of sitting Senators, and additional information can be found at the Staff Senate website.