Representing faculty and staff from all University colleges and divisions, Clemson University’s Faculty and Staff Senates serve as an important voice and point of connection across Clemson.
Through their many years of advocacy, the Senates contribute to multiple initiatives and improvements to support faculty and staff, and continues to serve as advocates for the needs of University employees.
Meet the Faculty Senate
Since 1956, the Faculty Senate has served as the official representative body of Clemson’s faculty, working closely with University leadership to recommend new and improve existing policies.
Comprised of permanent and ad hoc committees, Faculty Senators work collaboratively across colleges to learn more about and identify opportunities related to things like faculty welfare, scholastic policies, research, financial matters, and other relevant topics as needed.
“Faculty Senate advocates for faculty of all ranks and designations by communicating and collaborating with University leadership, the Board of Trustees, and the greater Clemson community, and serves as a vehicle for positive change across campus,” Faculty Senate president Tyler Harvey said.
“Beginning this academic year, we are placing an increased emphasis on collaborating with graduate and undergraduate student governments to elevate student concerns and act as a model of leadership and civic engagement.”
Meet the Staff Senate
Formed in 1984, Clemson’s Staff Senate first served to represent classified staff, before expanding in the early 2000s to represent all University staff. The Staff Senate advocates for the rights, welfare and recognition of staff members, with committees focused on philanthropy, welfare and outreach activities.
“The work of Staff Senate is not just about representation. It’s about listening with purpose, advocating with integrity, and building a stronger Clemson for every staff member across the state and beyond,” Staff Senate president Victoria Perry said.
Collaborative approach to supporting faculty and staff
With two representative bodies for faculty and staff at all levels, the two Senates ensure their constituents’ concerns across the University are heard.
Both Senates also support the Employee Emergency Fund, a University program that assists employees experiencing financial hardship due to unexpected, unforeseen and unavoidable circumstances.
“One of the most meaningful expressions of Staff Senate’s mission is the Employee Emergency Fund. It demonstrates that supporting our employees goes beyond advocacy. It means showing up for one another when it matters most,” Perry said.
There are also various opportunities for employees to engage directly with their senators to bring their questions or concerns to the broader Senate. Staff Senators for each budget center are listed directly on the Staff Senate websites. Staff members can also provide inquiries or feedback through the Constituent feedback form.
Faculty Senators are divided based on the number of faculty members in each College and are also listed on the Senate’s website.
