Penn State IT Staff Advisory Council applications open for 2026-29 membership

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Penn State IT Staff Advisory Council (PSIT SAC) is now accepting applications for 15 new members for a three-year term, 2026-29. Penn State IT staff interested in staff advocacy and cross-unit collaboration should complete the application form by July 31.

The PSIT SAC is the representative voice for Penn State IT staff, serving as a dedicated forum for employees to help shape the direction of the IT community. PSIT SAC members serve three-year terms and contribute through monthly council meetings and optional sub-committee work as needed. No prior Staff Advisory Council experience is required.

Guided by the values of accountability, collaboration, adaptability and respect, the council works to help the people behind Penn State's services and systems have a meaningful voice in the organization they help build, said Gretchen Paules, current chair of the Penn State IT Staff Advisory Council. Serving on the PSIT SAC offers IT staff members an opportunity to advocate for colleagues, contribute to cross-unit collaboration and engage directly with leadership on workplace culture, professional development, communication and organizational decision-making.

In January and February 2026, the PSIT SAC hosted eight listening sessions that covered topics, including staff voice and perceived action, recognition and inclusivity, skills and advancement, trust in leadership, communication during the IT OST transition, clarity of decision-making, and cross-organizational collaboration. Additionally, the PSIT SAC recognized outstanding IT staff members through its annual IT Awards program.

“Serving on the Penn State IT Staff Advisory Council has been one of the most impactful and rewarding experiences of my career at Penn State.” said Paules. “The council provides an opportunity to lead from where you are, regardless of title, by listening to colleagues, building connections across the organization, and helping shape the conversations and processes that impact our community. If you’re invested in making Penn State IT an even better place to work, I encourage you to apply.”

Fifteen seats are available for the upcoming three-year term, offering IT staff from across units and the Commonwealth Campuses the opportunity to bring diverse perspectives to the council and ensure broad representation of IT staff voices.

For questions about membership or the application process, visit PSIT SAC SharePoint or contact the council at PSITSAC@psu.edu.