Staff Senate Elections

Staff Senators are elected by their peers to represent the interests of and give a voice to their EEO classifications. Senators serve a three-year term and, through their service, can lead committees and projects and run for offices.

2026 Election Candidates for Senator

See below for the candidates for the 2026 - 2029 term.

Clerical and secretarial

Christy Costlow

I care deeply about making sure staff perspectives are genuinely heard and thoughtfully considered. I really value collaboration and enjoy working with others to find practical ways to improve efficiency, transparency, and our overall day to day experience. I would be honored to serve in this role and represent my colleagues in a way that is both supportive and approachable.

Angie Gilber

Gain a deeper understanding of how Texas Tech University works, how decisions are made. Provide input and help policies and programs that are of particular interest to Staff. Help give my coworkers voice and understanding the universities polices.

Michael Henson

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to be a strong, thoughtful voice for staff and to help ensure our perspectives are heard in university decision-making. As a Section Coordinator in the Procurement Office, I work closely with colleagues across campus and understand the importance of clear communication, collaboration, and practical solutions. I am committed to listening, advocating for meaningful improvements, and supporting initiatives that strengthen our workplace and the Texas Tech community.

Kyler Hubbard

I want to be a Staff Senator because I care about the people I work with and the role we all play in supporting the university. I have seen how great of an impact staff contribute to the betterment of the institution every day, and I would like to help strengthen communication and connection across campus. I am someone who values listening, collaboration, and being approachable. This is a meaningful way for me to give back and support a positive experience for staff.

Anita Patel

I would like to be a TTU Staff Senator so that I can help give our employees a voice and make sure everyone is heard. It would be our honor and responsibility to make an effort to help our organization's work family to have ideal and better working conditions whenever possible. I would be grateful to be a part of the committee and help make a positive difference.

Ashley Robinson

I am interested in serving on the Staff Senate at Texas Tech University because I am passionate about advocating for staff voices and contributing to a positive, inclusive workplace environment. Through my experience working with students and colleagues, I have developed a strong commitment to collaboration, communication, and service. I would like the opportunity to represent staff concerns, support meaningful initiatives, and help strengthen the connection between staff and university leadership. Serving in this role would allow me to actively contribute to the continued growth and success of the university community

Casandra Sanchez

As an employee here, I want to development into a leader that can assist with the success of this University. Becoming a staff senator will allow me to be a more involved with Texas Tech and be a resource for others. I also try to help make the work environment enjoyable within the registrar office. Allow me to spread that joy with other staff members throughout Texas Tech.

Autum Ward

Thank you for this nomination! My name is Autum Ward I have been with Texas Tech University for three years now and I would love to have the opportunity to be on staff senate, to be able to make a difference within the committee I'm on, to be a bold voice and to stand up for the staff of TTU.

Deaven York

I would like to serve as a staff senator to deepen my understanding and knowledge of Texas Tech's internal operations. I believe that I will be able to bring a unique perspective from the payroll office while also learning much from others. Likewise, being a staff senator would allow me to better serve my coworkers and the TTU staff as many staff may be unaware of the resources available to them.

Other professionals

Kelly M Cooper

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to support the Texas Tech University staff community and help ensure that staff voices are heard in decisions that affect their work and experience. Having previously served as a Staff Senator, I greatly valued the opportunity to contribute to meaningful initiatives, including early work supporting the Staff Emergency Fund. I am also seeking a stronger sense of community, and Staff Senate provides an important space for connection and shared purpose among staff. Additionally, I believe it is important to represent and advocate for the perspectives of my EEO classification, Other Professionals, within shared governance.

Margie Crawford

I would be honored to serve as a Staff Senator to advocate for the needs and perspectives of Texas Tech staff. Serving on Staff Senate would allow me to contribute meaningfully to initiatives that support professional growth and promote a positive staff experience through campus culture. I value collaboration and believe effective communication between staff and leadership is essential to a strong university community.

Kimberly Davis

My utmost professional aspiration is to advocate for large scale resiliency. Becoming a staff senator will allow me to advocate for meaningful change and ensure the overall success of the TTU community expansively. I have a passion for serving and to influence well-being.

Camille Frost-Crews

I am excited for the nomination and want to be a member of the staff senate to champion for those who get taken for granted by those that run this university. I am currently the campus Youth Protection Officer but have been with TTU in some capacity since 2007. Throughout my time I have acquired a considerable amount of institutional knowledge. My interests expand from flexible work environments to expanded academic benefits, and clearly articulated evaluation methods.

Marina Garcia

I would like to serve as a staff senator to be a consistent, thoughtful voice for staff and to help ensure our perspectives are represented in university decision-making. As a business manager, I work closely with teams across departments and understand the importance of clear communication, collaboration, and accountability. I am committed to listening to staff concerns, advocating for practical solutions, and contributing to initiatives that strengthen our workplace and support the university’s mission.

Jackson Garibay

I am interested in joining Staff Senate because it offers a meaningful opportunity to amplify staff voices and contribute to shared governance within the institution. I value collaboration and advocacy, and I want to help ensure staff perspectives are represented in conversations that shape policies, workplace culture, and institutional priorities. Serving on Staff Senate would allow me to give back to the university community while further developing my leadership and service skills.

Guy Gilbert

I am pursuing a seat in Staff Senate because I am deeply committed to ensuring that every staff member feels valued, heard, and supported in their vital roles at our university.

My goal is to foster transparent communication between staff and administration while actively advocating for policies that improve our working environment and professional development. I would be honored to earn your vote and serve as a dedicated, approachable voice for our shared interests.

Taylor Harris

I am excited about the opportunity to serve as a Staff Senator because I care deeply about building a campus community rooted in connection, trust, and support. In my role, I have the chance to listen, learn, and build relationships across departments, and I would be honored to bring those voices forward in a meaningful way. I lead with a people first mindset, curiosity, and the belief that thoughtful, intentional action creates real impact. Serving in this role would allow me to advocate for my colleagues while continuing to grow and lead day by day.

Claudea Hernandez

I'd love to be a part of staff senate to advocate for the needs of my fellow staff members and to build relationships across campus. I would like to continue to build community at Tech and to hear more about what is happening outside of my departmental neighborhood. I hope to serve as a great support to the TTU staff and to help them feel both valued and appreciated!

Christy Hoodenpyle

I’m interested in serving on Staff Senate because I’d love the chance to support and advocate for staff across campus. I work closely with both students and colleagues and see every day the impact staff have on the university’s success. I’d really enjoy being part of conversations that represent staff perspectives and help strengthen our campus community.

Ali Hooks

I’m running for Staff Senate because I care about the people I work with and want to help make sure staff feel heard and supported. As a first-generation college graduate, I know how important it is to have people who advocate for you and create opportunities to succeed. In my role as an instructor, I work closely with both students and staff, and I see how much stronger our campus can be when we communicate and support one another. I want to be someone who listens, shows up, and helps make real, positive changes for our staff community.

Jerry Kavalieratos

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to advocate for staff voices and help strengthen communication across departments. As the Assistant Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships for Online+, I work closely with students, advisors, and leadership, which gives me a well-rounded perspective on the needs of our campus community. I am passionate about creating a supportive and collaborative environment where staff feel heard, valued, and empowered to succeed. Serving in this role would allow me to contribute to meaningful initiatives that enhance the experiences of both staff and students at Texas Tech.

Dawn Lamb

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to be a strong, reliable voice for staff and to help ensure our perspectives are represented in shared governance at Texas Tech. As a staff member, I value collaboration, clear communication, and practical solutions that support both employees and the university’s mission. I am committed to listening to concerns, advocating for positive change, and contributing my skills and experience to strengthen our campus community.

Kristi Mangiapane

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator because I truly care about people and the impact staff have on the culture and success of Texas Tech. In my role, I see how powerful connection, communication, and recognition can be, and I’m passionate about creating more opportunities for that across campus. I’m someone who shows up, stays engaged, and genuinely wants to make things better for those around me. I would be honored to represent our staff community and be part of the work the Senate is doing.

Diann Merriman

I have been an advisor and staff member at Texas Tech's Plant and Soil Science Department for 16 years. I have been supported by many people across the university over the years and I feel like now would be a great time for me to give back by serving on the Staff Senate. I plan on working for a few more years and would like to do what I can to support the university before I retire.

Andrew Oliver

Hi! My name is Andrew Oliver, and I currently serve as the IT Support Senior Technician for the Office of Research and Innovation. My life has been deeply intertwined with Texas Tech for as long as I can remember. I watched my mom graduate from the Allen Theatre when I was just four years old, later I earned my BBA in Marketing from Rawls College of Business in 2014, and worked at IT Help Central throughout my undergraduate years.

Texas Tech has remained a central part of my life ever since. My wife works in marketing for the College of Engineering, and I returned to Tech three years ago where I previously served as a full-time staff member with Student Union & Activities and I am also currently pursuing my Master of Arts in Strategic Communication and Innovation.

Service has always been my passion. In IT, I like to say I’m an okay technician, but I’m great at helping people. That mindset has guided my work and my involvement across campus. I currently serve on panels for Title IX and Student Conduct, where I help advocate for students.

I am seeking the opportunity to serve as a Staff Senator because I want to deepen my involvement on campus and expand my ability to advocate for my fellow staff members. Through my work in IT, I hear and help address staff concerns every day. Serving as your Staff Senator would allow me to amplify those voices and continue supporting our Texas Tech community in an even greater capacity.

Charity Pihlaja

My 8 years at Tech have been with the Undergraduate Writing Center, helping students learn academic writing skills. While this is still something I am passionate about, I am ready to expand my involvement to encompass the broader Texas Tech community. Additionally, I am eager to listen to other staff members' experiences and challenges and to contribute my skills to our collective work.

Taylor Rindlisbacher

I want to be more involved in Texas tech and to try an better myself as a Texas tech employee. and to give back to texas tech.

Anthony Rodriguez

I’m interested in serving on the Texas Tech University Staff Senate because I want to have a more active role in representing and supporting staff across campus. I think it’s important for staff voices to be heard, and I’d like to be part of conversations that lead to real improvements in our work environment. I care about creating a positive workplace, and I see this as a great way to contribute to that.

Kourtney Rodriguez

I would like to be a staff senator to serve as a strong, collaborative voice for staff and help ensure our perspectives are represented in campus decision-making. I am committed to listening to staff concerns, communicating them clearly, and advocating for policies that support an inclusive, supportive, and effective work environment. Serving in this role would allow me to contribute to positive change and strengthen the connection between staff, faculty, and university leadership.

Joseluis Sanchez

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator at Texas Tech University to advocate for staff voices and contribute to meaningful improvements across our campus. In my role, I regularly see opportunities to strengthen communication, transparency, and support systems for staff, and I am passionate about helping move those forward. As someone committed to both professional growth and service, I want to help ensure that staff perspectives are represented in decisions that impact our daily work. Serving on Staff Senate would allow me to give back to the university community that has supported my own development.

Travis Sills

I look forward to being able to represent my campus, the School of Veterinary Medicine. As a relatively new Staff member, I look forward to bringing my experiences and perspectives to committee work and the work of the Senate. I hope to play a supporting role in any way possible with the Senate and the larger institution, Texas Tech University.

Richard Sullivan

I am running for Staff Senate because durable governance infrastructure matters. With 40 years of process analysis and zero-defect systems experience ‐ including SOX compliance and technical writing in nuclear and aviation environments ‐ I focus on building transparent, repeatable processes that reduce daily friction for staff. In my current role as Faculty Senate Business Coordinator, I have delivered measurable improvements in documentation, compliance, and cross-senate alignment. I want to bring that same disciplined approach to Staff Senate so we can build shared tools, clear handoffs, and reliable workflows that make it easier for staff across campus to do their jobs well.

https://richardsenate-bir7sxap.manus.space

Jared Tollas

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to represent staff voices and promote a culture of wellness across campus. Working at the Rec Center, I see firsthand how physical activity, mental health, and community connection positively impact our workplace. I enjoy bringing new ideas focused on wellness and balance, and I am eager to share those ideas while listening to the needs of staff. I would be proud to advocate for initiatives that support a healthier, more engaged staff community.

Abby Walton

I would be honored to serve as a staff senator to act as a dedicated voice for our diverse campus community and to advocate for the professional interests of all staff members. My experience navigating university logistics has given me a deep understanding of our institutional framework and the importance of transparent communication between departments. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where staff concerns are heard and translated into actionable policy improvements. I aim to contribute to the continued growth and well-being of the university we work to support.

Service/Maintenance

Melissa North

I would like to serve as a staff senator to be a strong, practical voice for frontline staff and leaders who keep our campus operations running every day. As a Grounds Maintenance Leader, I understand the importance of clear communication, teamwork, and advocating for the resources and support staff need to succeed. I am committed to listening, representing concerns thoughtfully, and working collaboratively to improve workplace conditions and morale. Serving as a staff senator would allow me to give back and help ensure staff perspectives are heard and valued.

Samuel Wimberley

I would like to serve as a Staff Senator to ensure that the voices of Grounds Maintenance employees are heard and represented in decisions that impact our daily work and campus environment. Being part of a team that supports the university from the ground up, I take pride in advocating for the needs and contributions of staff who often work behind the scenes.

I am proud to be considered as one of the few representatives from Grounds Maintenance, and I would use this opportunity to promote communication, collaboration, and positive change across all departments. My goal is to help strengthen the connection between staff and leadership while contributing to a better workplace for everyone.

Skilled crafts

Matthew Jimenez

I take pride in showing up, staying organized, and being someone people can count on. I listen and pay attention to what’s going on and what matters to the people I work with. I care about the people I work alongside and want to make sure those voices are heard. I’d be proud to represent our staff.

Technical and paraprofessional

Jeanne Bertonazzi

As a Staff Senator, I would enjoy being a part of a collaborative and positive work environment effort, creating and fostering community outreach, and being an advocate for staff related issues. It would be a privilege to actively represent the interests of our wide and varied staff to the administration in all areas of professional development opportunities, excellence recognition and workplace improvements. With advocacy from the Staff Senate, every staff member has the empowerment to create their success, define their professional goals and be an elite support system for the research and education of TTU.

Scott Frederiksen

I am excited to run for staff senate because I am passionate about supporting and representing the voices of our staff. Through my work I have developed strong relationships between departments resulting in open communication and collaboration. I would like to use my voice as an advocate for my colleagues to promote a positive workplace for current and future employees. It would be an honor to contribute and strengthen the workplace environment.

Address

Box 45040, Texas Tech University, 2500 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79409
Email
staffsenate@ttu.edu