What is the University Classified Staff Council
The UCSC membership consists of elected representatives from each operating unit across UTHealth and appointed members as specified by our bylaws. Members must be full-time classified employees who have fulfilled the obligations of their probationary employment period. Click here to see the UCSC Bylaws.
Why We're Here
The University Classified Staff Council (UCSC) advises the President and the Executive Council on matters of importance to classified employees of UTHealth Houston. Such matters can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Appropriate policies and procedures
- Strategic planning and directions
- Recruitment, retention, promotion, and transfer of classified staff
- Processes regarding continuous quality improvement
- Budget and planning issues
- Houston-wide communications and resource networking
- Campus master planning
- Compensation policies
- Classified staff status, rights, and responsibilities
How We Work
Each member of UCSC serves on one of five standing committees. Special purpose committees may be established on a temporary basis as needed.
The five standing committees are:
- Staff Development Committee focuses on professional development opportunities for classified staff.
- Staff Recognition Committee organizes UCSC's Annual Workshop.
- Communications Committee creates communication pieces (such as brochures and flyers) and publishes news related to classified staff.
- Election Committee maintains UCSC membership and runs the election process for members. It also plans a retreat for members every year.
- Educational Awards Committee raises funds to be awarded to qualified children of eligible full-time classified employees and coordinates the awards process.
The chairs of each committee, along with UCSC officers, serve as the Coordinating Committee. The Coordinating Committee is responsible for the strategic direction of UCSC and for advising the Executive Council on strategic planning issues of UCSC. The Coordinating Committee develops the agenda for UCSC meetings and facilitates the work of UCSC.
What Else We Do
In addition, UCSC council members participate in groups and events across campus and UT System. This includes or has included:
- Volunteering to help with university-wide events like Fun Fest
- Serving on councils and committees across UTHealth and UT System. This may include the HOOP Review Committee, President's Advisory Committee, Employee Advisory Council, and other groups.
- Serving on special task forces
- Coordinating professional development events
- Assisting with policy revisions, such as the Sick Leave Pool
- Taking part in programs and events such as the Toner & Cartridge Recycling
A Note From Our FY26 Chair 
I’m honored to serve as the FY26 Chair of the University Staff Council (UCSC). Since joining the university in 2017, I’ve had the opportunity to serve in multiple roles within UCSC, each offering a deeper understanding of the university’s mission and the incredible people who support it. I originally joined the council to learn more about the university as a whole and to break out of the silo I felt I was working in. That decision has been transformative, allowing me to build meaningful connections and contribute to a broader vision for staff engagement.
We find ourselves in a challenging yet exciting time. The university is navigating financial constraints with caution, and I recognize the importance of being fiscally responsible. At the same time, we are welcoming a new president whose leadership brings fresh ideas and renewed energy. I believe this moment calls for thoughtful collaboration and renewed engagement across all areas of campus.
As Chair, my goals for this year are centered on collaboration and empowerment. I aim to foster stronger partnerships between UCSC and offices across campus, encouraging open dialogue and shared initiatives that benefit our entire university community. I also want to ensure that staff feel empowered to use their voices—whether that’s through council participation, feedback channels, or leadership opportunities. Every voice matters, and I believe UCSC can be a platform for amplifying those voices in meaningful ways.
I’m committed to creating spaces where staff feel connected, informed, and inspired to contribute. Whether through new programming, cross-campus partnerships, or advocacy efforts, I hope to build on the strong foundation UCSC has established and help move us forward together.
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. I look forward to working with all of you to make FY26 a year of growth, collaboration, and impact.
Laura Rademacher, MEd