Candidate Introductions

Loretta Alcala
Administrative Assistant III - Office of Curriculum Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Over 12 years (combined 2007 - 2018 and 2023 to present"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Serving on the council would be a wonderful opportunity to actively support and contribute to ongoing improvements that benefit the entire campus community."

Tiffany Alexis
Payroll Assistant - Payroll & Tax Compliance

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “12 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to become a member of Staff Council to assist with bridging the communication between staff and leadership"

Catarino Becerra
Administrative Assistant III - Round Rock Campus

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “12 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to become a member of Staff Council because I'm passionate about contributing to a positive and inclusive workplace culture. I believe in the value of open communication and collaboration, and I want to help ensure that staff voices are heard. I'm especially interested in representing the Round Rock Campus to ensure our unique perspectives and needs are included in broader conversations. Being part of the Council would give me the opportunity to advocate for my colleagues, support initiatives that enhance our work environment, and help build stronger connections across departments."

Ava Bettersworth
Administrative Assistant II - Procurement & Strategic Sourcing

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “2 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I enjoy the meetings and staying up to date on university initiatives."

Faith Britsch
Administrative Assistant III - Student Learning Assistance Center (SLAC)

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Student 2007-2010; Employed since March 2023”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I enjoy advocating for others and would like to be more involved on campus.”

Justin Cantu
Administrative Assistant III - World Languages & Literatures

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “8 years as staff”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I want to help our fellow staff members and be a voice for those who may feel like they do not have one.”

Josh Carmouche
Police Sergeant - University Police

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “5.5 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I'm passionate about listening, connecting, and being a strong voice for staff across campus. Since joining Texas State in 2020, I've had the opportunity to serve in several roles - at the Texas School Safety Center, as CJ faculty, and now with UPD. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on the unique challenges and opportunities facing staff in different corners of our university. I've also served on Staff Council at UT Austin and understand how valuable it can be when staff has a seat at the table. I'd be honored to help bring your concerns forward, celebrate your contributions, and work toward making Texas State and even better place to work."

Alejandro Chavez
Residence Director - Department of Housing and Residential Life

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year & 4 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “My passion for student well-being also expands to the great, valuable staff tending to each of the many students. I have wanted to figure out ways and avenues to help some of our most important people on campus, this opportunity will help me bring my visions and ideas into a reality."

Ash Davis
Residence Director - Housing & Residential Life

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “It would be a great opportunity to serve the university, represent the department, serve on hiring committees, and hopefully become a chair of a committee. Gaining a professional development opportunity is unique, and to serve on staff council would be a rewarding experience. I was previously a member of OU's Faculty Senate and Norman Graduate Council as Representative for the Graduate Senate in SGA"

Luis Diaz
Digital Video Specialist - School of Theatre, Dance & Film

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “5 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Speaking as someone that received my Bachelor's degree at Texas State University, and am now working full-time at this university while also seeking a graduate degree, I believe I can say that I have a lot of experience with this community. I've seen first hand how the staff members at this institution play a pivotal role in not only the day-to-day operations but in the advancement of Texas State and its hopes and aspirations. I want to serve on staff council to do my part in giving back to the community that has given me so much. Not only that, I believe I can improve this university - whether it's through small but meaningful changes that will save staff members a couple seconds every day (they add up!) or through more substantial efforts like advocating for hundreds of hardworking individuals. I know the feeling of being overworked, having to juggle multiple roles, all to feel like your concerns aren't being addressed - which is exactly why I want to serve on staff council, so I can be a strong advocate for all staff needs and play my part in making this University the best it can be."

Shayne Futujma
Program Coordinator - Academic Engagement

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “3 years”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to be a member of the staff council so that I can be a voice for staff at TXST, continuing to ensure TXST is one of the best places to work!.”

Liz Garcia
Cashier - University Police Department / Parking Operations

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “I have completed 15 years of service at the university, including time at The Witliff Collections, Faculty Development & Institutional Effectiveness”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I am excited at the opportunity to work with other members of our TXST community to address the concerns of fellow staff members.”

Kelly Gourluck
Administrative Assistant II - School of Criminal Justice & Criminology

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “14 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I have immensely enjoyed my time on Staff Council over the past 3 years, and look forward to the chance to continue serving. Representing the staff of Texas State is an honor, and I would love the opportunity to continue working towards improving the staff experience here. I am a Bobcat for life; Texas State staff have done so much for me over the years and I hope to continue giving back in my own small way by serving another term with Staff Council."

Melissa Herrera
Senior Administrative Assistant - College of Applied Arts

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “10 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to be on staff council so that I can make significant changes and advocate for the Staff here at TXST. We are in a current climate of rapid change and I would like to position myself to be in a position where I can speak for staff population, take their concerns to heart, and be a positive influence around campus."

Jasmine Jennings-Rentz
Associate Director for Leadership & Service - Student Involvement & Engagement

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year and 3 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to be a member of Staff Council because it is important for me to be an active member in my community. Through my participation, my hope is that I can positively contribute to the collective well-being development of TXST staff at all levels."

Rae Holt
User Service Consultant II - ITAC Managed Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “9 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I want to join Staff Council because I care about making sure staff voices are heard, especially those who might be too shy or unsure about speaking up. I've learned that advocating for yourself is important, and I want to help others do the same."

Brad Johnson
Systems Support Specialist II - Student Success

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “21 years in October"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I recognize the increasing value of staff voices, and the present need to represent and highlight those voices."

Ashley Knopp
Administrative Assistant II - Financial Aid & Scholarships

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “10 years (student from 2013 - 2018, staff member from 2018 - current"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: N/A

Alyssa Livernois
Research Coordinator - College of Applied Arts

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “3 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “As a proud Texas State Bobcat, I am passionate about supporting and uplifting fellow Bobcats within my college and across the university. In my role as a Research Coordinator, I have the privilege of assisting faculty and research staff in developing competitive grant proposals. If selected to serve on Staff Council, I would be honored to join a dedicated group committed to actively listening to staff concerns, planning thoughtfully, and fostering a supportive campus community. I've had the pleasure of collaborating with current Staff Council members and would consider it a true privilege to continue their important work - advocating for staff needs, enhancing available resources and celebrating the many contributions of our university staff."

Robby Longoria
Academic Budget Specialist - Mathematics

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “10 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to serve on Staff Council to better contribute to our university community, help represent staff interests, and promote reasonable, timely, and adequate action to benefit the university community at large."

Christine Love
Texas Regional Manager - ALERRT

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “20 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “As a proud alum and long-standing member of the Texas State University community, I am eager to serve on the Staff Council to help elevate the voices of staff and contribute to the continued growth and success of our institution. My Texas State journey, from my early days as a student, then a Patrol Officer wit UPD, to my current role as Regional Manager for ALERRT, has equipped me with the leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary to advocate for staff needs and promote a collaborative environment. 

With experience in public service, higher education, and university operations, I bring a unique perspective shaped by over a decade of experience in law enforcement, training coordination, and academic involvement. I am passionate about supporting the mission of Texas State and fostering an inclusive, supportive workplace for staff members across all departments. It would be an honor to give back to the university that has played such a pivotal role in my personal and professional development."

Jesse Marshall
Interim Supervisor IMS - IMS

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “21 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Texas State is an exceptional place to work and I would like to continue the high standards set by previous staff council. Hopefully ensuring Texas State remains a great place to work."

Kathryn McDaniel
Tutorial Services Coordinator - Student Learning Assistance Center (SLAC)

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “I completed my undergrad and master's degree at Texas State then started working in a staff role at the Student Learning Assistance Center (SLAC) in fall 2022, I have been working here at Texas State for almost three years!
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I am motivated to become more involved in the Texas State community and build stronger or new relationships with my colleagues. I have gained so much both personally and professionally from connecting with my co-workers in the Division of Student success. I look forward to the opportunity to learn from and serve fellow staff across all areas of the university."

Lindi McIntyre
Senior Undergraduate Admissions Counselor - TXST Global Admissions

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year 7 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to be a part of the staff council to be more involved at Texas State and to give Undergraduate Admissions and the Round Rock Campus a change to have a voice and input. I would like to be able to help highlight the Round Rock Campus - especially since this campus is growing so much! I think it will be a great bridge and help keep the two campuses connected!”

James McMahan
Plant Operator I - Utility Operations

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year in June"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I'm looking forward to working together with my fellow members and contributing to initiatives that support and enhance our staff community. I'm confident that, through our collective efforts, we can help foster a positive and supportive environment for everyone."

Allison Menchaca
Welcome Center Coordinator - TXST Global Admissions

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “I've been a proud Bobcat for over a decade! I started at TXST in 2012 and graduated with my bachelor's degree in 2017 .Not quite ready to leave, I pursued my master's degree and participated in River Jump for the second time in 2022. During graduate school, I worked part-time in the Welcome Center and quickly discovered a passion for helping prospective students find their home at TXST. In 2021, I transitioned into a full-time role, and I've continued to share my love for TXST with future Bobcats ever since!
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “TXST gave me so many opportunities as a student, and even back then, I knew I wanted to find a way to give back. Now, as a proud alum and staff member, I'm excited about the chance to serve and advocate for my fellow employees. With nearly 25% of TXST staff being alumni, we bring valuable perspective to the table. We bridge the gap between student experience and evolving needs of the university. I'd love the opportunity to be part of Staff Council to represent that viewpoint, support initiatives that improve work-life balance, and help ensure that all staff feel heard, supported, and appreciated."

Candice D. Mongellow
Operations Manager - Performing Arts Center - College of Fine Arts & Communication

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “5 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Becoming a member of Staff Council would allow me to advocate for positive change by supporting initiatives and helping to address concerns on campus. I also look forward to connecting with fellow staff members across all entities, as fostering these relationships can create a more supportive work environment. Being part of Staff Council would give me the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the TXST community and help shape policies that benefit all staff members."

Andrea Montes
Administrative Assistant III - College of Health Professions Dean's Office

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “6 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to become a Staff Council Member to better understand different policies and procedure within TXST, understand how to better assist my co-workers, and provide the council with my empathetic character."

Gabriel Nwajiaku
Senior Information Security Analyst - Information Security Office

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “About 2 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Seems like a valuable opportunity."

Missty Phelps
Registered Nurse - Student Health Center

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Approximately 3 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I' would like to become a member of Staff Council so I can represent my peers and have a more active role in my work community."

Allison Pufal
Academic Advisor I - First Year Advising

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “7 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Advocating for our university and staff as a whole is important to me. I have worked professionally at TXST for 7 years and have built a foundation of institutional knowledge. First as an administrative assistant and now an academic advisor. I am not even including my time as a student! My time serving students has been very rewarding and their success is motivating to me. I have seen the great things that the university has done and hope to continue to pursue excellence we all deserve. Through Staff Council I am hoping to continue to advocate/celebrate others and continue growing as a professional. — A little about me I am a Bobcat fan, fitness/wellness enthusiast, and love to tap into creativity and try new DIY projects when I can. Lately, I have been enjoying drawing. I was happy to work with other staff council members on a successful fundraisers, one that prompted two additional awards for staff. Thank you for your consideration and eat em' up cats!"

Katherine Ranft-Garcia
Residence Director - Department of Housing and Residence Life

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I am interested in serving on Texas State's Staff Council to advocate for and support initiatives that enhance the staff experience, enabling us to better serve our students and meet the goals and initiatives of the university."

Olivia Reyes
Program Coordinator - Psychology (MAPR)

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Almost 5 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I have heart for people, especially those at my work place. I naturally am a positive and proactive person and enjoy being a part of a thriving, enjoyable. and diverse community! I think I could be a great addition to this committee!"

Jimmy Rico
User Services Consultant II - ITAC

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “32+ years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Hear and contribute to the advancement of fellow staff."

Deion Robbins
Coordinator for Campus Programming - Student Involvement and Engagement

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “3 years”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I'm interested in joining the Staff Council because I care deeply about building a supportive and inclusive environment for all staff. I believe our voices matter in shaping the experience here at Texas State, and I's like to be part of the group that helps make sure those voices are heard. I enjoy bringing people together, collaborating across departments, and finding ways to create meaningful impact. Being on Staff Council would give me the chance to contribute to the larger campus community and continue supporting the people who make this university great.”

April Rock
Administrative Assistant III - Respiratory Care

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “4.5 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I' was nominated and would love to be part of the growth and staff support on the Round Rock Campus."

Nikki Rodriguez
Accountant III - Donor Engagement - Advancement Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year 9 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “To be more involved."

Ale Roman
Budget Assistant - Family and Consumer Sciences

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “4 years”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “To help the university that has been my home for the last 6 years.”

Rebekkah Rowlands
Disability Specialist - Disability Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Student - 3 years, Staff - 3 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I am an advocate in my daily life. Being able to advocate to make a positive impact that would directly benefit my colleagues in some way would be meaningful to me. I believe, having been a student and now a staff member, it would be fun and exciting to be involved in this capacity."

Casey Samples
Testing Center Coordinator - TEMC - Testing Center Round Rock

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “8 years total"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “The Round Rock campus is fast growing and ever changing. It also provides unique challenges with the growth of the campus and the programs that the others should be aware of. I would like to become a member of staff council because Round Rock should have representation at the table and I provide a unique set of experiences to pull from. From being a first-generation student, multiple transfers, working in TEMC while a student and returning as a pro staff, gives me a wide range of higher education experiences to pull from. We also have a great set of staff and faculty at Round Rock that should be represented."

Omar Santiago Mojica
Facilities Maintenance Technician - Physical Plant Structures Shop

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: Since 2014"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would love an opportunity to learn more about TXST and help us along the way to reach out goals!"

Jessica Sosa
Business Operations Specialist - Texas School Safety Center

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year and 4 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to become a member of Staff Council because I am passionate about having a positive work environment. I am eager to contribute and collaborate with other members for ideas and help implement initiatives that enhance staff engagement, professional growth, and overall morale. Having recently completed the Leadership Academy, I see this as a valuable opportunity to serve my colleagues, apply my leadership skills, and make a meaningful, lasting impact at Texas State University."

Tara Spies Smith
College of Fine Arts & Communications Librarian Liaison & Open Licenses Librarian - University Libraries 

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “26 years 6 months"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “Because I am passionate about advocating for staff issues as well as issues for all of Texas State including the history and traditions."

Sloane Thompson
Tax Analyst - Payroll & Tax Compliance

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Undergrad: August 2020 - May 2022, Staff: February 2023 - Present, Grad School: August 2023 - December 2024"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I believe in the value of collaboration between departments and leadership, and I see Staff Council as a platform where meaningful dialogue and improvements can happen. I want to help ensure that all staff feel heard, appreciated, and supported in their roles."

Wendy Thompson
Reference & Instruction Librarian - University Libraries

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “7 years student, 7 years staff"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I think serving on the Staff Council would be a great way to connect with the wider university community. I work at the RRC and think its important that the RRC has representation on Staff Council Committees."

Emmaleigh Toto
Administrative Assistant II - College of Liberal Arts Advising Center

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts in 2009 (History/English double major with a teaching certification). I accepted a role with the College of Liberal Arts Advising Center in February 2025.
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to meet staff members from other campus departments/roles, as well as advocate for building a meaningful coalition of people invested in the growth and success of Texas State as an institution of higher education."

Angie Villegas
Curriculum Specialist - Office of Curriculum Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “7 years as full time Staff (student from 2013 - 2017)
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to get more involved with the University community and be a voice for my fellow staff members. Texas State has brought so much joy into my life so I want to give back in any way that I can."

Corey Weber
Microcomputer Lab Coordinator II - English

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “12 years"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I am finishing a one year Member-At-Large term and would like to continue the good work we are doing in the committes to which I have been appointed. This is my second stint on Staff Council and I truly believe in this body as a voice for Texas State University staff."

Chad Willis
Senior User Services Consultant - ITAC Managed Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “10+ years”
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I currently serve as the Chair of Staff Council and, though my current 3-year term has come to an end, I would like to be re-elected to continue the great work that Staff Council has done and will continue to do. I genuinely enjoy helping others and will work hard and stay committed to making this university a better place for staff!"

Cindy Wilson
Grant Senior Secretary - Academic Services

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “1 year, 3 months."
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “To help make positive changes to TXST."

Nara Wolfe
Coordinator, Special Projects - Round Rock's Vice President's Office

How Long Have You Been at Texas State: “Since 06/26/2023"
Why Would You Like To Become  A Member of Staff Council: “I would like to become a member of Staff Council because I'm passionate about fostering a positive work environment and serving as a voice for my colleagues. With over 15 years of experience in higher education administration, I deeply value the essential role staff play in shaping the university's culture and sense of community. I believe in the importance of shared governance and collaboration, and I see the Council as an opportunity to advocate for staff interests, support initiatives that enhance our workplace, and strengthen communication between staff and leadership. I'm especially interested in helping build stronger connections across both the San Marcos and Round Rock campuses to ensure all staff feel engaged, heard, and supported. I'm excited about the possibility of contributing to a groups that brings people together and drives meaningful, positive change across the university."