Every month the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State community to connect. This month readers can get to know a few A/P members as we introduce the newest members of the Administrative/Professional Council.
What is your job title and responsibilities?
Cheryl Fogler (At-large member): I am assistant director of planning in Office of Planning, Research, and Policy Analysis. I provide information, analysis, and planning assistance that supports decision-making that advances the mission of ISU.
Megan McCann (At-large Member): I am assistant director at Conference Services. I oversee our program coordinator positions and work directly with internal and external clients to plan and execute conferences on campus, within the State of Illinois, and nationwide.
Amelia Noel-Elkins (At-large member): I serve as the interim assistant vice president for student success in the Office of the Provost. Because it is a new position as of July 1, 2020, new duties are emerging all the time, but generally speaking, I’m responsible for student success initiatives in Academic Affairs and for collaborating with others on campus in student success efforts that cut across organizational divisions.
Kara Snyder (At-large member): I am the assistant dean of marketing, communications, and constituent relations for the College of Applied Science and Technology. My role focuses on implementing strategic marketing efforts and enhancing relationships with key constituent groups by providing intentional programming opportunities. I oversee our alumni engagement efforts and manage a small donor relations portfolio. In addition, I have the privilege of working closely with Gamma Phi Circus, our college’s IT team, and a graduate assistant.
How long have you been an employee at Illinois State?
Cheryl: Ten years
Megan: Just shy of nine years.
Amelia: I just had my 15-year anniversary!
Kara: I have been a full-time staff member for 8 1/2 years. Before that, I was a graduate assistant, and before that, a student employee—so it depends on when you want to start counting!
What do you love most about working at Illinois State?
Cheryl: Being part of the Redbird family. I don’t feel like that is a catch phrase here, we really are a family!
Megan: There are so many reasons why I love working at ISU. I really enjoy the collaboration between departments. There is a sense of community here and everyone is always willing to help each other accomplish a task to keep moving the University forward. I can’t say enough great things about my time here at ISU! Go Redbirds!
Amelia: The people, especially the students.
Kara: I love the people and the relationships that I have made through working at Illinois State. I have wonderful colleagues across campus that make it a great place to work.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?
Cheryl: Hiking, traveling, attending outdoor concerts and sporting events
Megan: I enjoying spending time with my family, friends, and my dog Boomer! I am currently getting back into running and am looking to join a running club soon. I also enjoy playing golf, hiking, and reading business books/articles. I also spend a lot of time volunteering and giving back to this amazing community.
Amelia: In “normal” times, my family and I are big fans of concerts and taking trips – and I know we will be back to that very soon!
Kara: Finding any excuse to spend time outside with my husband, Ryan, and our 3-year-old, Logan.
What is your favorite spot on campus?
Cheryl: Redbird Plaza
Megan: Like most people, the Quad is by far my favorite place. Every time I step foot on the quad memories come flooding back from my undergrad days. I also really enjoy being in the State Farm Hall of Business building. I spent so many hours in the atrium and computer lab rushing to finish a paper and get it printed off in time for class.
Amelia: I know it may be the usual answer, but the Quad – for my first 15 years here, my office overlooked the Quad, and I loved taking a few minutes every day to look out the window and watch the students as they went about their daily routine.
Kara: I love the bridge that connects the Bone and Milner to the Quad. It’s such a wonderful view and reminds me of the first time I visited campus as a high schooler. I love seeing tour groups stop in the same spot.
What are you most looking forward to in your first term on A/P Council?
Cheryl: Being part of the shared governance process that influences the future of ISU
Megan: This will be my second term on Council. I wanted to stay on to keep pushing forward with the goals we have set during this last year. Serving on the council has allowed me to actively engage in shared governance and build stronger connections with the campus community.
Amelia: Working closely with others on AP Council on important issues. I stepped off for a year as I started my new job, and I really missed it!
Kara: I am looking forward to participating in shared governance and having an opportunity to work with colleagues from other units.
