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College of Science Staff Association

It's about you.

If you are a classified staff member in the College of Science, then you are automatically a member of the College of Science Staff Association. Our organization is dedicated to representing your views, opinions, and concerns to the college administration and the Staff Senate. The association is also an opportunity for you to get involved in community projects and gain support for professional development.

Why the College of Science Staff Association?

  1. To provide a voice for staff members to advocate for and improve College of Science staff development programs.
  2. To provide many ways to participate in various community outreach programs.
  3. To provide multiple opportunities to connect with other staff members within the College through our special events.
  4. To provide a voice in the Staff Senate and in University Governance to promote work satisfaction.
  5. To improve communication between staff and administrators. 

Monthly Meeting Dates

COSSA will meet the third Thursday of each month.

If you are interested in joining, contact Erika Perdue for Zoom details (eperdue@vt.edu).


Committees

Term July 1, 2023 – June 30, 2026

Chair

Amy Stanford, Economics

Vice Chair

Erika Perdue, Economics

Secretary

Betty Wilkins, Physics

Treasurer

Amber Robinson, Dean of Science

Staff Senators

Amber Robinson

Alternate Staff Senators

Erika Perdue

Jen Pike

Dean of Science

Amber Robinson

Economics

Erika Perdue

Amy Stanford

Physics

Travis Heath

Katrina Loan

Betty Wilkins

Statistics

Michele Strauss

Community Outreach

Betty Wilkins, Physics

Special Events

Erika Perdue, Economics

Staff Development

Amber Robinson, Dean of Science

Special Events

The college hosts a recognition reception for staff members each spring. Staff members who are celebrating milestones in the careers (5, 10, 20, 30, and 40 years of service in the college) are formally recognized with a gift from the College of Science Staff Association.

A welcome back picnic is hosted at the beginning of each academic year.

Other Resources

The Staff Development Committee exists to provide educational and professional development, to promote staff recognition, and to support informal interaction for all staff members in the College of Science. 

During his tenure, Dean Chang set up a grant program for staff educational development. These educational grants can be used for both personal development or to enhance skills you would need for your job. A grant can cover registration fees for courses such as those offered by the Computer Training Center, National Seminar, or other organizations. 

How do I apply? 

Staff members may apply for a grant any time throughout the year by filling out an application. You should submit your application as soon as you have information on an event you're interested in attending. Attach a copy of the registration form to the application, if applicable. 

When should I apply? 

Applications may be submitted throughout the semester. Please allow two weeks for processing. Due to the limited amount of funds available per year, applications will be considered on a first-come, first-serve basis. The maximum amount per year for any applicant is $250.00.

How does the program work? 

Your department will be responsible for submitting registration materials and the initial payment to the organization. Upon approval from the committee, you will be notified by a committee member. The funds will be transferred from the Dean's office to your departmental operating account upon receipt of documentation from the department showing expenditure has been paid. 

If you have additional questions about the grant program or would like more information, please contact Amber Robinson.