My name is Hilary Murmers (she/her). I am the LGBTQIA+ Coordinator in the Center for Gender and Sexuality at UM-Flint. I’m also a newly elected USU Steward on the Flint campus. I moved to the Flint area from out of state for my job here, and my spouse is now also a UM employee (and USU member!). I am honored to serve queer and trans students through education, community building and advocacy. Because there’s only one of me, I also work on improving campus climate and training faculty and staff on LGBTQ+ competency.
Since I started my role in Fall 2021, I have experienced consistent pressure to take on more roles on campus, put on more programming, and reach even more community members. This means that my work bleeds into evenings and weekends. Flex time is a great idea, but it’s not always possible when my center always feels short staffed. My calendar is filled with student worker supervision, committees, and planning meetings–I have to plan diligently to be able to flex time or take time off to recover. I support University Staff United because I believe staff deserve more. I deserve more, and I want it for all of us, collectively. More clearly defined roles and pathways to promotion, more say over hybrid schedules, and more pay. USU can and will bargain for a contract to improve these challenges. Already a member? Talk to your colleagues about USU and help us grow our union!Join USU in the fight against the pressures from above always demanding more.
In Solidarity,
Hilary