Staff members who want to provide input to help improve the University of Michigan workplace can now apply for the Voices of the Staff program.

The program is looking for new members for the 2026-27 year. Voices of the Staff brings together 130 employees from across the Ann Arbor, Dearborn and Flint campuses, as well as Michigan Medicine. 

Voices of the Staff team members share their ideas and experiences in monthly meetings to discuss improvement opportunities. Several times a year their feedback is shared directly with university leaders.

“It is very important that staff have a real, organic process and program to help change our workplace,” said Dyan Jenkins-Ali, associate director of Voices of the Staff. “We are unique in that we bring together employees from every part of the university. This helps make sure leaders hear a unified voice from many different ideas as we work to support, align and make the university better.”

Members join one of six teams. These teams focus on topics like career growth, flexible work, and employee well-being. While the program makes sure many different types of jobs and work shifts are included, applicants can pick the team that interests them most.

Members say the program helps them grow in their own careers and understanding of the university.

“After 16 years at Michigan Medicine, my perspective was the medical side of the university. The many outstanding colleagues that I’ve met have helped expand my view of how staff contribute to U-M,” said Julie Yuhas, a registered nurse and current team member. “Voices has strengthened my sense of connection to the entire university.”

To join, staff must have worked at the university for at least one year. Members spend about four to six hours a month on the program.

Applications are open until March 31. More information and an online application are available at the Voices of the Staff website.