Elections for 2025-26 Term Open May 27-30

VOTE HERE

 

Learn more about the candidates

Learn more about UWTSA positions

Chair

Ebony Peterson
Events Manager, Advancement/Events & Conference Services
UWT Staff Association Connections Chair 24-25

My name is Ebony Peterson, and I am the current Connections Committee Chair of the UWTSA and seeking election as Chair. I’m running for Staff Association Chair because I’m passionate about bringing people together and creating a workplace where everyone feels heard, supported, and connected. As the current Events Manager, I’ve built strong relationships across campus and have seen firsthand the power of collaboration and community. I pride myself on being reliable, forward-thinking, and committed to continuous improvement. If elected, I will focus on increasing engagement, strengthening communication channels, and building on the great work the Staff Association has already accomplished—ensuring that every staff member feels a true sense of belonging and purpose. 

Jillian Leahy
Director of Operations & Administration, Finance & Administration
UWT Staff Association Events Chair 24-25

You may know me as a member of Finance & Administration, working closely with our VC and serving on various committees. Or you may know me as the person that sang "The Moose Song" at last year's Staff Association Summer Camp event. Or you may just see my name a lot on Teams and uwtline.

What I hope you know me for is my dedication to our campus, its mission and, most importantly, the staff that are critical in fulfilling that mission. I truly believe that you, our staff, are a vital asset to UW Tacoma, whether advising students, supporting teaching and research, keeping campus clean and safe and functioning, or managing a countless number of events and activities for our unique community. If I am elected chair of Staff Association, I will build upon the work I have been a part of this past year, serving as Events chair, and continue advocating for and empowering all UWT staff.

My goals are

  • to strengthen the connections between staff in different departments to foster collaboration and camaraderie,
  • to create and identify opportunities for learning and development,
  • and to build accessible bridges to central staff resources, like The Whole U, Professional Staff Organization, Labor Relations, and more.

Thank you for all you do. It would be an honor to continue serving you in this role.

Vice Chair

Bea Givan
Fiscal Specialist, Fiscal Services, Finance & Administration
UWT Staff Association Secretary 24-25

This past year, I have served on the Staff Association Executive Board as Secretary. In this role, I have appreciated the opportunity to provide support for staff, as well as space for staff to take time away from their daily tasks to build community with other UWT staff. 

My goals, as Vice Chair, are

  • to create events where staff have the opportunity to get to know each other,
  • ensure staff are heard as a member of the UWT community
  • advocate for staff opportunities and well-being
  • and support each member of the Executive Board so they are able to fully realize their role in Staff Association

Treasurer

Chad Carpenter
Conferences Manager, Events & Conference Services
UWT Staff Association At-Large Pro Staff Rep 24-25

I currently serve as the At-Large Professional Staff Representative on the UWT Staff Association and am excited to continue supporting our staff community by running for Treasurer. Since joining UW Tacoma in November 2023, I’ve enjoyed learning more about our campus, the Staff Association, and the many ways we can build stronger, more collaborative relationships in our workplace.

In serving as UWTSA/SAEB Treasurer, I will draw on my previous banking experience, with a strong focus on budgeting and financial management. I’m committed to transparency, accountability, and ensuring that our association’s resources are used effectively to support staff initiatives. I look forward to the opportunity to serve in this new capacity and contribute to the continued growth and success of our association.

At-Large Classified Staff Representative

Tim Kapler
Media Maintenance Technician Lead, IT
SEIU 925

Hello all, my name is Tim Kapler, Media Maintenance Technician Lead, part of the Information Technology team for nearly 25 years. I have recently represented UW Tacoma and SEIU 925 at the bargaining table (2025-2027 contract) and Organizing Committee and hope to be a resource to campus as the At-Large Classified Staff Representative.  Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

Secretary, At-Large Pro Staff Representative, Connections Chair, Events Chair and Awards & Recognition Chair are all open positions that did not receive nominations. They will have a write-in option on the ballot.