How are the members of the staff network selected?
HR identifies targeted numbers from each unit using a percentage of total staff ratio and broadly represented career communities in an effort to create a microcosm of the U-M staff community. Volunteer-based selection solicited through individual applications from staff members. Volunteers must have at least one year of U-M service and are in good standing. The Dearborn and Flint regional campuses each designate two staff members to join this team.
Size and Structure
About 120 staff members serve in a network of five topic-specific groups. A sixth team comprised of alumni of the program is dedicated to engaging Voices of the Staff alumni.
Two representatives from each of these network groups also serve on the Core Team. The Core Team comes together periodically to represent the network in meetings with the president, executive officers, and the chief human resource officer. Supervisors approve participation for staff members. Training is provided to network members so that they may participate fully and effectively in the process.
Competencies required: building relationships, interpersonal skills, leadership, achievement orientation, quality service, creative problem solving, strategic thinking, commitment to the mission, development of self and others, communications skills.
The term of participation on Voices is for two years. A limited number of members from each team can request a third year. Each year, half of the network team members roll off of active service and become alumni members.
Application Process
Applications for new members are accepted annually in March. Staff may volunteer or make individual nominations by completing and sending in the application form available every year on this site during the month of March. In 2025 the application period is extended through April 30. Supervisory approval is required prior to submitting the application due to the required release time to participate. Executive officers support participation in the Voices program. Volunteers selected are varied in terms of career family, job roles, length of service, unit size, and executive officer area.
Appointment Process
UHR reviews applications to ensure that Voices network teams are comprised of a diverse population that accurately reflects the composition of the staff community campus-wide.
Time Commitment
Periodic training sessions are provided for team members, facilitators, and advisors. Monthly meetings of each group are 1.5 hours. Quarterly meetings of the core team are 2 hours. All Voices members meet at an all-day Annual Meeting in June.
Additionally, some Voices team members must be available as needed: the Core Team will meet as convened by President, Executive Officers, or Associate Vice President for Human Resources. The president or other executive officers will meet with the Core Team once or twice per year or as needed. The AVP for Human Resources will meet with the Network Teams at least once per year and with the Core Team twice per year.
Term Limit
The initial appointment is two years. There is an option for a member to apply for a third year of service and reappointment for one additional term is allowed.
Communications
The Voices of the Staff website communicates the work of all Voices teams to the university community.