Frequently Asked Questions
About NUSAC
The Northwestern University Staff Advisory Council (NUSAC)t serves as an advisory voice and change agent for staff. We work to elevate staff perspectives on workplace concerns, professional development, and community engagement by partnering with University leadership.
NUSAC engages in dialogue with senior leaders recommend improvements to policies, programs, and the overall staff experience. We also create opportunities for engagement through events, workshops, and communications that keep staff informed and connected. We also gather feedback from staff, and this feedback enables us to advocate for the changes that are important to the staff community.
NUSAC focuses on a wide range of topics affecting staff, including benefits, workplace policies, engagement, career development, and well-being. We encourage staff to contact us and let us know the issues that are important to you
Impact and Advocacy
NUSAC works directly with leaders, including the President and Chief Human Resources Officer, to influence decision-making. We serve as a sounding board on proposed initiatives and advocate for enhancements to the employee experience. We have contributed to efforts such as enhanced benefits, staff engagement initiatives, and programs like NU Cares.
NUSAC actively engages with staff through outreach, events, and communications, then brings that feedback to senior leadership. We help ensure staff ideas, concerns, and priorities are heard and considered in institutional decisions.
NUSAC has contributed to initiatives that enhance the staff experience, such as advocating for expanded benefits, supporting staff engagement efforts, hosting conversations with senior leaders, and creating programs like NU Cares. These efforts reflect our ongoing role in shaping a more supportive and inclusive workplace.
Membership and Participation
The Council is composed of staff from across Northwestern’s schools, campuses, and units. Prospective members complete an application, applications are vetted by existing members of the Council, and new members are invited to join following that selection process. Members represent a wide range of roles, ensuring broad perspectives from across the University community.
Staff can apply during the annual recruitment cycle, typically held in the spring. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements, receive supervisor approval, and commit to participating in meetings and initiatives during their term on the Council.
NUSAC is here for all staff, and we want to hear from you! We encourage you to join our Listserv, email nusac@northwestern.edu with questions or concerns, and participate in our events. NUSAC encourages broad participation to ensure we reflects the diverse perspectives of Northwestern’s staff community.
Committees and Structure
NUSAC’s work is carried out through five standing committees: Executive, Benefits, Communications, Human Resources, and Outreach. Additional ad hoc committees are formed as needed to work on additional projects outside the scope of these committees.
Communication and Engagement
NUSAC emails quarterly newsletters to staff, which include event announcements, updates on initiatives, and information on topics like benefits changes and engagement opportunities. Additionally, staff are encouraged to join the NUSAC Listserv, which provides updates on events around the University and highlights programs and news of particular interest to staff.
NUSAC is here for all staff and wants to hear from you! Staff are encouraged to join the Listserv, email nusac@northwestern.edu with questions, suggestions, or concerns, and participate in NUSAC events. Broad staff participation helps ensure that NUSAC hears and represents the diverse perspectives and experiences of Northwestern’s staff community.