SAPA

President
Anna Tabone

Vice President
Lorie Cornell

Secretary
Shannon Haight

Treasurer
Melissa Bright

Benefits Chair
Audra Leininger

Faculty Representative*
Robbie Bolton

Student Government Association Representative**
Joey Dearduff

* Faculty Representative is filled by current Faculty Forum President and is not elected.

** SGA Representative is filled by current SGA President and is not elected.

The time has now come to elect the 2016-2017 SAPA Committee.  Please follow this link to cast your vote for the 2016-2017 SAPA Executive Committee.  Electronic ballot submissions will be accepted through May 4^th.

President
Joe Neill

Vice President
Sarah Crane

Secretary
Audra Leininger

Treasurer
Shannon Haight

Benefits Chair
Laurie Cornell

Faculty Representative*
John Hawthorne

Student Government Association Representative**
Ty Davis

* Faculty Representative is filled by current Faculty Forum President and is not elected.

** SGA Representative is filled by current SGA President and is not elected.

PROPOSAL 1: A proposal to change the office of President Elect (two year term) back to an office of Vice President with a single year term.  Rationale:  The original intent of the President Elect role was to develop consistency in the leadership of SAPA, however, we have found it difficult to identify individuals willing to commit to a two-year term that leads to SAPA presidency.  This proposal would allow us to revert back to the previous structure for officers.  Affected sections of the By-Laws include: Article IV, sections 1 & 3; Article VII, sections 3 & 3b.  RED below indicates a change in language in the By-Laws.

The full previous version can also be viewed by clicking here.

ARTICLE IV
OFFICERS/EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

SECTION 1. The officers of the Staff Administrative Personnel Association shall be a President, Vice President President-Elect, Secretary, Treasurer, Staff Benefits Committee Chairperson, Faculty Senate Representative and Student Government Representative. These officers shall perform the duties prescribed by these bylaws and by the parliamentary authority adopted by the Association.

SECTION 3. Elected officers shall serve one year (from June 1 to May 31) with the exception of the President-Elect who will serve a two-year term. The existing officers will assist with the transition through the summer months.

ARTICLES VII
COMMITTEES

SECTION 3. The standing committees shall be the Benefits Committee and the Benevolent Committee. The Association President shall be ex-officio member of the standing committees and all special task forces and committees. The Vice President President-Elect shall chair the Benevolent Committee.

SECTION 3b. The Benevolent Committee consists of the Chair (SAPA Vice President President-Elect), the previous year’s President and an elected faculty member. The SAPA President will serve as an ex-officio member. The Benevolent Committee is established to assist employees with emergency financial needs. SAU employees have the option to donate a small amount (usually $1) of their monthly paycheck to a Benevolent Fund that is used to help out SAU employees when unexpected expenses arise. Distributions may be considered for any faculty, staff or administrative personnel whose personal financial need has been brought to the attention of the Benevolent Committee. Needs will be evaluated by the Benevolent Committee on an individual basis as unanticipated, financial emergencies arise.  The amount of the distribution will depend upon need and availability of funds; however the maximum is $1,000 per person per year. Once a decision is made by the Benevolent Committee regarding the request for funds, the Chair of the committee will fill out the necessary paperwork for a check and then will also deliver in person or mail the check with a letter of explanation of this financial gift.

We had a great time at our February SAPA event.  Thanks to all who participated by entering a chili and by judging.

Colorado Chicken Chili (by Jeff Tabone) was the crowd favorite, receiving an impressive 473 points.  Congratulations Jeff!

2^nd Place: “The Winner” by Diane Kintigh – 368 pts.

3^rd Place:  “Puerto Rican Chili” by Kristen Hall – 364 pts.

Special thanks to all our 2015 Chili Cook Off participants:

President Ellis – “Chili Chili Bang Bang”

Doug Wilcoxson – “Flavor Country”

Barb Manuszak – “Simulated Hot Flash”

Melissa Bright – “Chili My Kids Will Eat”

Aaron Sanford – “Recipe #27”

Joe Neill – “Unicorn’s Last Supper”

Grace Ann Bolton – “Spring Training”

For those interested, here is Jeff’s secret recipe!!!

::Colorado Chicken Chili::

(yields ~4 servings)

Ingredients Needed:

2-3 chicken breasts ~1lb

1 tsp. Cumin

1 15oz can of Great Northern Beans

1 15oz can of Black beans (drained and rinsed)

1 16 oz package of “Garden Fresh Gourmet: Jack’s Special” medium salsa (any fresh salsa would do, but we’ve found that Jack’s Special has superior taste and flavor)

2 cups of finely shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions:

Pre-cook then shred chicken

Place all ingredients in a crock pot and mix well Set crock pot to “High” and cook for ~3 hrs, stirring occasionally, ensuring that all the cheese melts Serve and Enjoy!

If you missed the Janyary SAPA meeting “Q & A with the President’s Cabinet” you can watch it here.

Elaine Klop was appreciated for:

“Just thought I would send Myrtle your way to let you know how much I appreciate you! Your kind way & depth of knowledge of your job makes it easy to ask questions & get answers. Sometimes the quiet behind the scenes jobs go somewhat unnoticed but I know without you some of us wouldn’t get paid! Thanks for all you do & for your loving servant’s heart!” 

Diane Kintigh received Myrtle.

What was said about Diane:

“I appreciate you! You do a great job working with our students and faculty. Your close attention to details…who is a music major….who isn’t a music major…who is in what music group… and making sure everyone is in the correct placement, is amazing. (Not to mention keeping all of the music faculty on track! 🙂 )You do all of this with a warm smile and a heart for the students. Your hard work and positive attitude is a great example for your students, faculty, and staff. You are awesome!”

Sharon was recognized for her hard work. See below for what was said about Sharon.

“I appreciate Sharon’s attentiveness to detail, her timely response to questions and reports, and her ability to give and receive sarcasm (a very important trait, in my book :). She has had many hurdles recently both at home and work with aging parents, an office move, and many staffing changes: yet she greets me with a smile and a readiness to meet any of the academic needs I may have. Thank you Sharon for your service, and your friendship.”

What was said about Steve:

“Thank you for all of your hard work during NSO and throughout the year. Your service to our staff is impeccable. Whether it is going out of your way to help a coworker on the weekend or talking to a student about his/her choices and life , your “boots on the ground” approach changes lives. Keep up the amazing work!”

Myrtle flew to Sarah Thompson’s office to deliver an important message:

“Those of us in the School of Education appreciate the hard work of Sarah Thompson and her role in admissions.  Sarah continues to work closely with students who are interested in pursuing teacher certification.  She is diligent and detailed in her work to make sure these students are set up with the correct courses based on the area in which they would like to certify.  Sarah has been intentional about meeting with School of Education personnel to learn more about the teacher education program so that she can address questions from prospective students and their parents about our program.    I appreciate Sarah’s hard work in recruiting students to Spring Arbor University.  Thank you, Sarah!”

Myrtle visited Julie Zeller in the School of Education and the message she brought was:
“Julie Zeller has always been a pleasure to work with.  Her attitude always seems to be upbeat, even when she is in a hurry and needs something done quickly.  She has never gotten upset with me when I was unable to get what she wanted done in the timeframe she hoped for.  I’ve worked with her many years, starting when she worked in the Registrar’s Office in the basement of Muffitt.  She has always been thankful when I do something for her and made me feel appreciated.  Thank you for your pleasant attitude and being a good example of a Christ-like servant at SAU.” 

Thank you for your hard work Julie!

Here are the results from the 14-15 SAPA Executive Committee Elections:

President
Joe Neill – Joe has served in various roles at SAU since 2009 and is currently the Associate Dean of Student Success for SAU Global.  In 13-14 he served as SAPA Vice President (President Elect).

Vice President (President Elect)
Laura Tenney – Laura has been at SAU since 2012 and is currently the secretary for Technology Services and the Office of Academic Technology (OAT) . In 13-14 she served as SAPA Benefits Chair.

Secretary
Audra Leininger – Audra is a Senior Admissions Representative and has been working for SAU since August 2012.  This is her 2nd Term as SAPA Secretary.

Treasurer
Kristen Hall – Kristen has been at SAU since 2006 and recently moved from being the Perkins Loan and Student Account Collections Coordinator in the Business Office to her current position as a Financial Aid Counselor.  In 2013, she graduated with her MBA from SAU.  She is excited to be teaching her first CORE 100 class in the Fall of 2014.

Benefits Chair
Matt Gin – Matt began working in May of 2013 as the Director of the SAU Arbor Fund in the Advancement office. This is his first year as part of the SAPA executive team.

Faculty Representative
Sarah Crane  – Sarah has been at SAU in the President’s Office since 2010. This is her first year serving on the SAPA committee.

Student Government Association Representative
Aaron Sanford – Aaron has served at SAU since 2012 as the Audio Visual Services Coordinator. This is Aaron’s second term as the Student Government Association Representative.  Aaron also loves tacos.

We are all looking forward to another great year in SAPA!

Myrtle made another move this week, this time with a return flight to Technology Services.  She landed on the desk of Sr. Programmer Analyst, Mark Wesseling.  Here’s what was said in appreciation of Mark:

“I have long appreciated Mark Wesseling’s assistance with tech issues and questions when I’ve been stuck on something in CARS or my BusinessMap software. That appreciation and gratitude has multiplied since I started my new position in January – receipting gifts and updating database records. Mark is always quick to respond to my questions, talks me through correcting my (often very creative) mistakes and is always pleasant, calm and infinitely patient.  Thank you so much Mark!”

Congratulations, Mark!

Myrtle made another move this week, this time to the desk of Lynne Markiewicz, Stewardship Services Coordinator.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Lynne:

“Lynne’s great attitude and infectious smile are always uplifting to me.  She stepped into her new role in the Advancement Office as Coordinator of Stewardship Services with such a great attitude.  I so appreciate how quickly and kindly she responds to all my requests and questions.  Thank you Lynne for all that you do for SAU!”

Congratulations, Lynne!

Myrtle and Jennifer

After spending last week with Susan in the Archives, this week Myrtle made a leap into the digital age in order to visit Jennifer Simmons who serves SAU as the Assistant Controller.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Jennifer:

“Jennifer is a “blessing” in the Arbor.   Shortly after she came to work at SAU, a former co-worker of Jennifer’s told me that SAU is very blessed to have Jennifer as an employee.  I wholeheartedly agree.  Jennifer, Assistant Controller, was a tremendous help to me as I transitioned my credit card reporting to the online system.  She worked with me to be sure the reporting process met my needs and the needs of my department.  And, she is still tweaking for me.  Jennifer’s positive attitude is heartfelt, reflected both in her daily life and spiritual journey.

Thank you Jennifer for including us in your Journey!!”

Congratulations Jennifer!

After her radio debut, Myrtle made a move to the White Library and landed on the desk of Library Acquisitions Technician and Archivist, Susan Panak.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Susan:

“Susan is amazing at her job! Her love for history and Spring Arbor University comes through in her diligent work in the Archives. 2013 was a milestone year for SAU Radio as we celebrated 50 years of broadcasting. She helped us sort through all sorts of files and artifacts to create an awesome display just in time for our Radio Open House last fall. You can see her awesome work in the ever-changing display case on the main level of the library, as well as in the cases located in the Archives room downstairs. Thanks Susan for your hard work and for keeping the stories of SAU alive!”

Congratulations, Susan!

Myrtle made her radio Debut last week with a visit to Home.FM Program Director, Tonya Hernandez.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Tonya:

“Myrtle A. Duck spreads her wings and takes flight to home, HOME.fm that is! Myrtle heard about the work that Tonya Hernandez is doing in the SAU Radio offices. Tonya is involved in students’ lives by encouraging them to be all they can be as they work for the radio station. Teaching and modeling what it means to have a “real” job is an above and beyond part of Tonya’s responsibilities as radio program director here at SAU. Good job Tonya.”

Congratulations, Tonya!

* As of 2015/16 the Faculty Representative Position has been filled by the Faculty Forum President or his/her appointed representative.

** As of 2015/16 the SGA Representative position has been filled by a current member of the SGA.

________________________________________________________________________________________________

Last week, Myrtle made another move over to the Physical Plant and into the hands of Dave McCullum.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Dave:

“Dave McCallum, thanks for being such an awesome person of God!  Many people:   students, staff and faculty have been blessed by your example.  You probably don’t have any idea how much God has used you to bless the lives of others!  Thank you for your work at SAU!”

Congratulations Dave!

The Academic Student Connections offices may have moved recently, but that didn’t keep Myrtle from finding her way to the desk of Barb Coleman, Coordinator of Academic Student Connections and Student Disability Services.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Barb:

“Barb Coleman has a heart for students and is a positive influence on our campus as she cares and guides students who visit Academic Student Connections.  She knows her stuff and creates an environment that keeps students enrolled at SAU.  She is always warm & friendly, helpful & pleasant, and sweet!  We are blessed to have Barb as a member of the Spring Arbor University community!”

Congratulations, Barb!

Myrtle is on the move again!   This week she has made her way back through the doors of the  Admissions office and into the chair of Randy Comfort, Executive Director of Admissions.

Here’s what was said in appreciation of Randy:

Randy,

I admire your caring personality with your team and with everyone you meet. You listen intently and convey great care and respect in every matter. It has been a great joy of mine to work with you on a couple large projects at SAU because your focus and attention to details are incredible. Your sense of humor and light-hearted spirit has made challenging issues manageable. We are blessed at SAU to have you represent the “face” of our school. You are truly an ambassador for Christ. God bless you!!

Congratulations, Randy!

If you missed the March SAPA meeting you can watch it here.

After her first Virtual visit to the Metro Detroit Site, Myrtle logged in at Technology Services and is currently in the care of Cynthia Churchwell, Director of Project Management and Academic Technology.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Cynthia:

“Thank you so much for holding my hand and leading me through this new frontier known as distance technology. Thanks to your gentle prodding, teaching and encouragement, I have successfully concluded my first ever Go-to-Meeting and I am looking forward to more! You always answered every question promptly, and eased any anxiety (well, most of them any way!). Most importantly, you never made me feel my questions were “dumb!” Even when technology failed, you remained a calm in the midst of the storm. Your competence and character shine in all you do! I see Jesus in you! Thanks for being a blessing and for your servant leadership. Your vision and passion are not unnoticed. Until I call again with another question, God bless! “

Congratulations, Cynthia!

Myrtle took a “virtual flight” off campus and ended up in Metro Detroit on the “desktop” of Carolyn Watson, Coordinator of Faculty Services for the East Region.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Carolyn:

Thank you for your diligence, promptness, attention to detail, and above all, your sense of humor!  I know I can count on you for answers or guidance (or an adjunct).  I appreciate your positive attitude, kindness, and willingness to help out with whatever is needed.  It is such a pleasure working with you, Carolyn!

Congratulations on receiving Myrtle!

Today Myrtle flew south, south campus that is, to the desk of Janice Morrison, Coordinator of Weekend College and Program Records and Undergraduate Scheduling Specialist for  External Programs.

Here is what was said in appreciation of Janice:

“Thank-you for all the many ways you serve SAU.  From cohort calendars to faculty assignments to week-end college to many other small ways.  And for doing all this with a smile and a willing spirit.  You are a blessing to the Spring Arbor family!!!”

Congratulations, Janice!

Congratulations to Eric Beda, winner of the 2104 SAPA Chili Cook-Off!  It was an incredibly close contest! Thanks to all who participated as “tasters” and special thanks to our “chefs” with chili entries.  Each chef received a prize for participation, and Eric also took home the SAPA Chili Cook-Off trophy!

Today, Myrtle made her way back to Technology Services and landed on the desk of Lisa Brook, Senior Programmer Analyst.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Lisa:

“You are getting Myrtle because I appreciate your helpful spirit — your patience in educating me about processes — and the role you assume, that is CRUCIAL to everyone at SAU, even though they don’t know it!”

Congratulations, Lisa!

Myrtle moved on to Instructional Design, landing on the desk of Gwen Hersha.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Gwen:

“You have been a great source of encouragement, support, help and have been a challenger to fellow staff, faculty and students.   During your years as SAPA president, you were a humble leader and joyous motivator.   Your love for the Lord, SAU and people radiates through your life.   Thanks, Gwen, for being YOU and serving SAU with dedication and love.”  

Congratulations, Gwen!

This week, Myrtle landed on the desk of Donna Bentle, Accounts Payable Clerk in the Business Office.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Donna:

“I really appreciate your patience, diligence, and positive attitude toward handling billing questions and processes.  It is always a pleasure to work with you here at SAU!”

Congratulations, Donna!

If you missed the January SAPA meeting you can watch it here.  This meeting includes updates from the Executive Team including President Ellis, Rick Bailey (RHB), Jerry White, Kimberly Rupert, and Kim Hayworth.

Last week, Myrtle visited Aaron Sanford, A/V Services Coordinator.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Aaron:

“Aaron is a great example of a servant.  He is always willing to serve, willing to do whatever it takes at any time in order to get the job done.  His hard work helps make SAU excellent!”

Congratulations, Aaron!

Maintenance Technician, Bruce Heaten is the latest recipient of Myrtle.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Bruce:

“Bruce,

Ever since I came from Kenya to Spring Arbor University, I started working in custodial/maintenance for my part time job during the semester and full time job in the summer. I came to admire the sense of humor respect and hard work that you put into your job. You might not be appreciated enough but you guys do all the work that makes our jobs much easier.  I just wanted to say thank you for the fantastic job you do every day and all your crew members!!”

Congrats on this award, Bruce!

Myrtle is starting the year off with a visit to Herbert Rotich, Financial Aid Technician/Counselor.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Herbert:

Herbert,

You are a true friend for SAU students and staff!

Financial Aid can be a mysterious and seemingly ever-changing process for me and my SAU Student Support teammates.  We often are at a loss as to how to best help students with financial inquiries; however we always know we can count on you for expert assistance! 

Your general kindness and willingness to help whenever contacted is very much appreciated.  You are a great example of the best SAU staff can be! 

Thank you for being our, ‘Go-To Guy,’ in the Financial Aid Office!

Myrtle made the long journey to “West Campus” in order to honor Terri Swihart, Student Support Specialist and Student Services Coordinator.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Terri:

“Hi Terri,

 Thank you for all the hard work, persistence, and attention to detail you exhibit every day as a Student Services Coordinator for SAU online.  Whether in plenty of time or in the nick of time, you always manage to get all the admission paperwork in for students wanting to enroll.  You’re a good example for keeping calm and always being pleasant even under pressure.  I appreciate you!“

Congratulations, Terri!

Myrtle moved again this week, this time making a pit stop on the desk of John Ball.  (Sorry, John, we will get that cleaned up for you.)

Here’s what was said in appreciation of John:

“I want you to know how much I appreciate your hard work for the SAU community.  You work diligently and with a cordial attitude.  It is a pleasure to work with you at SAU.  Also, I want to express my gratitude to your family for their service and sacrifice in the military.  You are all unsung heroes!!!!”

Congrats, John!

This week Myrtle landed on the desk of Joan Croad, Academic Records Coordinator.

Here’s what was said in appreciation of Joan:

“Thank you for the great work you do for the University.  I appreciate the spirit in which you always respond to our requests for assistance, continuously positive and full of grace.  You always have the answers.  I see a servant’s heart in action!”

Congratulations on receiving Myrtle, Joan!

Last week Myrtle moved in to Dianna Harmon’s office!

Here is the note that Myrtle brought along:

“Dianna, 

Thank you for the work you do.  I have always appreciated your positive attitude and friendship.  Mostly though, I have appreciated what a wonderful example you are as a Christian woman and how you show your love for Christ in all you do!

God Bless”

Congratulations on receiving Myrtle, Dianna!

This week Myrtle flew to the Northeast side of campus and ended up on the desk of Randy Rossman, Assistant Vice President for Human Resources.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Randy:

Thanks for all you do for SAU.  I can only imagine the difficult situations you must deal with as H.R. Director.  But one thing I am sure of is that you do so with the highest level of integrity…..I appreciate you.

Congratulations, Randy!

Today, Myrtle made her way over to the Physical Plant and into the hands of Matt Cousino, Maintenance Technician.  Here’s what was said in appreciation of Matt:

Dear Matt,

I appreciate your hard work, cheerful and caring attitude, and innovative spirit.  You always put in 110% into making the campus buildings sparkle and giving needed updates.  You stay late to clean up leaks and flooded places around campus.  You care for students, faculty, and staff alike.  You always say hello and will ask people how they are doing and truly mean it, and want a response.  I appreciate that you are always willing to help and seek a better process.  Keep up the great work!  Glad you are part of the SAU Team!

Congratulations, Matt!

This week, Myrtle made her way back over to the Business Office and onto the desk of Kristen Hall.  Here is what was said about Kristen:

Dear Kristen, 

I hope you know that your assistance and understanding has always been appreciated.  I look forward to working with you again in the future.  Thank you for your dedication and hard work at SAU.  Have a blessed week and holiday season.

Congratulations on receiving Myrtle, Kristen!

Last week, Myrtle made her way to White Library.  Her destination was the desk of Lois Hunt, Circulation Supervisor.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Lois:

Dear Lois, 

Just wanted to let you know that I have always appreciated you and your work at SAU.  We are blessed to have you as part of our community.

Hope you have a wonderful week and a blessed Thanksgiving.

Congratulations, Lois!

This week Myrtle moved on to the desk of Teresa Janson, Secretary/Receptionist for Enrollment Management.  Here is what was said in appreciation for Teresa:

Teresa,

I greatly appreciate your continual warm smile and your friendly attentive service to the members of the SAU community and our visitors.  Your welcoming, helpful spirit is so appreciated and means a lot.  Thanks so much!

Terri Reeves

Congratulations on your award, Teresa!

Myrtle has just landed on the desk of Terri Reeves, Coordinator of Conference Services.  Here is what was said in appreciation of Terri:

“Terri:

Thank you for giving 150% to every guest you bring to this campus and for making them feel at home.  Also for making the custodial department’s job easier while guests are here.  You are very much appreciated.

Thank you”

Earlier this week Tom Reynolds, Custodial Services Supervisor, was recognized with the Myrtle Appreciation Award.  Here is what was said about Tom:

“Tom, 

I appreciate you and the attitude you convey no matter what the job.  You always are ready and willing to adjust to your schedule even if this happens on short notice.  Thank you for your wonderful spirit you convey in doing your job.  You are appreciated by me and so many, and you are an asset to the SAU community.”

Congratulations, Tom!

If you missed the November SAPA meeting you can watch it here.  This month’s theme was “Thanksgiving” and six SAU Employees shared testimonies of things they were thankful for.  Garnet Hauger also came to present results from the Task Force on Faculty/Staff Diversity.  The handout from Garnet’s presentation is available by clicking the link below.

Diversity Recommendations Handout

This week Myrtle arrived on the desk of Grace Ann Bolton, Coordinator of Special Events and Secretary at Academic Affairs.  Here is what was said in appreciation for Grace Ann:

“Thank you for always displaying a Christ-like attitude in all that you do here at SAU.  Your kind and joyful heart is a blessing to me! I appreciate your attentive and Quick responses when questions and needs arise.  Thank you for your faithful service at SAU!”

Congratulations on your award, Grace Ann!