Dr. Erika Gibb, 2025-2026 Senate/Assembly Chair
The Faculty Senate of the University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL), comprised of about 40 faculty members elected by their academic units, represents the faculty in relation to the issues and topics delegated to it in the University's Collected Rules and Regulations. The University Assembly includes student and staff representatives and administrators, in addition to the members of the Faculty Senate. The two bodies collectively represent the interests of the faculty, students, and staff of the University of Missouri-St. Louis -- a premier urban research university. Both the Senate and Assembly advise the Chancellor and other senior administrators as well as the UMSL faculty as a whole on questions of UMSL policy. They also initiate recommendations concerning changes in UMSL policy for consideration and appropriate action by the Chancellor or the faculty. The Senate meets four times each semester and the Assembly meets at least twice.
This is an exciting time as the Transform UMSL plan takes shape. The construction on campus has led to many disruptions, but also to great potential as we update our infrastructure and facilities to better meet the needs of our students, faculty, and staff. UMSL continues to play a leading role in contributing to the economic prosperity of Missouri and especially the St. Louis region. Our students are hardworking and dedicated to their educational pursuits. They come from all over the world and their many experiences and perspectives enhance our campus environment. They are helped along in their journey by dedicated staff who are committed to helping them navigate the many systems and supports that UMSL offers in the pursuit of their education. The staff also play a critical role in all aspects of campus life, from maintaining our beautiful campus to supporting faculty research, teaching, and service endeavors. The faculty are experts in their fields and passionate about providing high quality educational experiences that give our students an edge in whatever career path they chose. Our alumni remain engaged and play an important role in supporting UMSL and in growing our reputation throughout the region. Last, but not least, our administration works hard to make sure that UMSL achieves a sustainable future that will allow us all to continue to transform lives.
I am honored to be elected to serve as Chair of the Faculty Senate and University Assembly in 2025-2026. I will work hard to support the mission of the University of Missouri-St. Louis to transform lives and to support our faculty, staff, students, administration, and the community that we all serve. If you have questions about the University Assembly or Faculty Senate, please contact us via senate@umsl.edu.
Sincerely,
Erika Gibb, Professor
Chair, Faculty Senate and University Assembly