Staff members are headed to the polls for the 25th annual university-wide Staff Council elections.

The Council is filling positions with 18 UH employees on the ballot. Seats include At Large, Division of Administration and Finance, Division of Research and Office of the President.

The Staff Council is an advisory body to the president and administration of the University. The Council represents the staff and communicates their concerns to the administration, said Maria Saldana, a study abroad advisor and member of the Membership and Elections Committee.

The Council was founded in 1986 by former Chancellor Richard Van Horn to provide a voice for the staff members. Originally, 19 members participated. Today, there are 40 positions with 37 representing specific divisions and three at-large members.

Only benefits-eligible staff members are able to vote in this election and must know their employee ID.

Polling locations were open in the General Services Building conference room and Ezekiel W. Cullen first floor lobby on Tuesday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Additionally, staff members will vote until 5 p.m. Wednesday at www.election.uh.edu.

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