MSUASC Election Candidates

Emily Cappis

Admissions - Admissions Counselor

Richard Owens

Mechanical and Industrial Engineering - Academic Advisor

Nikole Drummond

Admissions - Admissions Specialist

I am honored to accept the nomination to serve on the All Staff Council at Montana State University. As someone who has dedicated the last six and a half years to serving our campus through roles at MontanaPBS and currently in the Office of Admissions, I am deeply invested in the continued growth, well-being, and success of our MSU community. Throughout my time at MSU, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with prospective students and their families, helping thousands from across the country find a home here in Bozeman. This work is not only rewarding—it’s a reflection of my deep commitment to service, empathy, and building inclusive, welcoming spaces. I believe these qualities are essential to any effective staff council, and I am excited about the opportunity to bring them to this role. Currently, I am completing my Master of Public Administration at MSU and am proud to be a member of Phi Kappa Phi. My participation in the Graduate Leadership Academy and recognitions such as the “20 under 40” honor in the Gallatin Valley have reaffirmed my belief in the power of community leadership and continuous learning. I have also had the privilege of participating in Leadership Montana, Leadership Bozeman, and professional development programs including Mental Health Crisis First Aid and Brene Brown’s Dare to Lead training—all of which have strengthened my ability to collaborate, listen, and lead with both courage and compassion. Whether serving in formal roles or connecting one-on-one with colleagues and students, I strive to bring creativity, curiosity, and warmth to all that I do. This summer, I will travel to China with the Max Baucus Institute and continue exploring global perspectives—both academically and personally. I believe that experiences like these further deepen my capacity to serve a diverse and dynamic campus like MSU. I’m excited about the direction we’re headed as a university, and I welcome the chance to contribute to our shared future in a meaningful way. If selected to the All Staff Council, I will represent my peers with enthusiasm, integrity, and a sincere commitment to fostering collaboration across departments and units. Thank you for the opportunity and for your consideration.

Kari Granberg

Campus Planning Design & Construction - GIS Analyst

Hello! My name is Kari Granberg, and I am a GIS Analyst with Planning, Design and Construction. I map and maintain all our utility infrastructure on campus, as well as create online web maps/applications and complete fieldwork data collection. I also work with our campus engineers, construction contractors, and staff in facilities trades departments. I love being a part of the transformation that MSU is going through right now with the unprecedented amount of construction happening across campus and the forward progress I see on a day-to-day basis. I would like to serve on All Staff Council to offer a fresh point of view and work collaboratively with those that have a long history with MSU. I am coming up on 3 years in my position and take every chance I get to be involved on campus. I have been involved with Commencement, Move-In Day, Science Olympiad, Catapalooza, GIS Day for Teens, and MSU Science Day. I was part of the Class of 2025 Leadership MSU cohort, which was an amazing experience to learn about MSU on a deeper level while creating long lasting relationships with people from all areas of campus.

Samantha Walker

Chemistry & Biochemistry - Academic Services Coordinator

I serve as the Academic Services Coordinator for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. I take pride in being a reliable point of contact for students and faculty. I am committed to equity, transparency, and service excellence in the work that I do. I believe that every staff member plays a vital role in shaping the university experience. On the All-Staff Council, I would be a voice for staff who work behind the scenes to make academic success possible. I bring an understanding of MSU academic operations, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for continuous improvement. I am eager to contribute to initiatives that foster professional development, recognize staff contributions, and promote a more inclusive and supportive campus culture. Serving on the council would be an opportunity to advocate for the needs and perspectives of academic support staff and those of us who support research efforts, and to help build a stronger, more connected university community.

Stran Knudsen

Residence Life - Community Director

Howdy,I'mStranKnudsen, a Community Director for University Student Housing and alumni from MSU. I have a BA in History and Political Science, and have taken a strong interest in student affairs, making my career afterundergrad.I am looking to serve on MSUASC to improve our administrative systems in supporting staff members at MSU.I have worked with Hunter Young throughout this year to better understand the workings of MSUASC and how I canhelp out going into the next academic year.I was an advisor for the residence hall association this past academic year, helping amend their constitution to better reflect election procedures and rebuild an important student organization on campus. My background in political science will promote my understanding of procedures on all staff council, helping support and advocate for our campus staffers. Thanks for reading and I look forward to serving you! 

Holley Woosley Vennes

Student Wellness Center - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

Hi there! I’m Holley Woosley Vennes, and I work in Student Health Services. I’m throwing my hat in the ring for All Staff Council because I truly care about making MSU a great place to work for everyone. I want to be a voice for classified staff and help create more connections and engagement across all departments. Bozeman and the surrounding area is an amazing place to live, but let’s be real, it’s not easy on the wallet. I’d love to work with this group to bring attention to the challenges we all face, no matter our role or pay grade, and brainstorm creative ways to make things better together. We’ve all felt the pinch from rising insurance costs, and I believe we need to protect the benefits we have if we want to keep the incredible staff that keep this university running strong. I’m all about keeping communication open, finding solutions, and making sure staff feel seen and supported. Thanks for considering me, I’d be honored to represent you!

Tracy Gatlin

Office of Research Development - Assistant Director of Research Development

I am the Assistant Director of the Office of Research Development. With personal connections to nearly every college at MSU, I love that I can reach across campus and creatively solve problems. I thrive on making a positive impact. Through this nomination, I am excited to contribute to our collective mission and enhance how MSU employees work together.

MaryShaun Mize

Student Wellness Center - Certified Clinical Medical Assistant

I have worked here in the Athletics Department for 22 years wearing many hats ranging from Business Operations/Compliance, Development and HR. I am also the Assistant to the Athletic Director so I have had a front row seat to what has been defined as the "Front porch to the University". My role requires extensive interaction with many departments across campus as well as the community. I believe effective workplace communication is essential to success. I pride myself on my strong relationships with many departments across campus and attribute those strong relationships to the success that I have experienced at Montana State. It would be an honor to be able to be a voice to my colleagues and provide that support.

Jacqueline Centofanti

Montana PBS - Membership & Database Coordinator

I'minterested in serving on All Staff Council toliftthe work and voices of my fellow staff members and learn more about how I can give back to our community.I'mnot afraid to ask questions and put in the work to find solutions that meet the needs of thecommunity. I currently work at Montana PBS as the Membership & Database Coordinator.As a member of the development team, my focuslies in fundraising, planning events, providing membership services, and analyzing and processing data.I'vebeen a member of the MSU community since I became a student in 2014. I graduated from Montana State University with a degree in Film in 2018 and have worked on campus ever since. I am currently the Editor of the Big Sky Alumnae Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta where I help keep our members connected to each other as well as our alma mater. Recently, I served on the committee to plan and coordinate our chapter's centennial celebration in which we brought over 120 of our members back to MSU to celebrate where our sisterhood began. During the celebration I coordinated the fundraising of over $2,400.00 and over 30lbs of food for the Bounty of the Bridgers Food Pantry. I am honored to be considered for this opportunity to continue to serve the MSU community. 

Kayte Kaminski

College of Education, Health & Human Development - Senior Assistant Dean

I'minterested in serving on All Staff Council toliftthe work and voices of my fellow staff members and learn more about how I can give back to our community.I'mnot afraid to ask questions and put in the work to find solutions that meet the needs of the community. I currently work at Montana PBS as the Membership & Database Coordinator.As a member of the development team, my focuslies in fundraising, planning events, providing membership services, and analyzing and processing data.I'vebeen a member of the MSU community since I became a student in 2014. I graduated from Montana State University with a degree in Film in 2018 and have worked on campus ever since. I am currently the Editor of the Big Sky Alumnae Chapter of Alpha Gamma Delta where I help keep our members connected to each other as well as our alma mater. Recently, I served on the committee to plan and coordinate our chapter's centennial celebration in which we brought over 120 of our members back to MSU to celebrate where our sisterhood began. During the celebration I coordinated the fundraising of over $2,400.00 and over 30lbs of food for the Bounty of the Bridgers Food Pantry. I am honored to be considered for this opportunity to continue to serve the MSU community. 

Bethny Hansen

Facilities Services - Work Control Supervisor

I am excited to express my interest in joining theAll StaffCouncil at MSU. With seven years of dedicated service at MSU Facilities Service, I have had the privilege of working as a Custodial Supervisor and currently as Work Control Supervisor. These roles have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of our campus operations and the unique needs of our community. Throughout my tenure, I have cultivated strong relationships with both Tradesmen and Departments. This has not only enhanced my ability to manage and coordinate effectively but has also given me a deep appreciation for the diverse perspectives andexpertisewithin our team. I believe that my extensive knowledge of the campus, combined with my established rapport with various stakeholders, positions me well to bean assetto the AllStaffCouncil. My goal is to be the voice of Facilities Services, ensuring that their insights and concerns are represented. Additionally, I am committed to bringing a diverse point of view to the council, fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and respected. I am passionate about contributing to the continuous improvement of our campus and am eager to collaborate with fellow council members to achieve our shared goals. 

Emma Hoegh

Student Health Services - Nurse Practitioner

My name is Emma Hoegh, and I am a nurse practitioner with Student Health Services within Student Wellness.I’mseeking a position on theAll StaffCouncil because I am invested in staff engagement, workplace wellness, and open communication between staff and leadership. I see the essential contributions staff make every day and believe in fostering a work environment where all employees feel valued, heard, and supported in fulfilling their potential. I hope to serve as an advocate for meaningful dialogue between staff and university leadership. The mission of MSUASC aligns with my values and my dedication to service. A key part of that commitment is promoting wellness in the workplace.I believe a healthy, collaborative work environment is vital to individual and institutional success, and essential to building a positive, inclusive campus culture that nurtures the growth and well-being of all employees. It would be an honor torepresentmy colleagues and contribute to continued success of theAll StaffCouncil’s mission.I’menthusiastic about the opportunity to help strengthen our staff community, support professional development, and further MSU’s land-grant mission through advocacy and collaboration. 

Sky Wernik

Education, Health, and Human Development - Assistant to the Dean & Administrative Manager

Hi! I'm Sky. My MSU origin story begins in 2011 when I first arrived on campus to pursue a B.A. in French & Francophone Studies. Though I wasn't very outgoing early on, I challenged myself to become involved on campus through my roles as a Resident Advisor, Assistant Resident Director, and Senator At-Large with ASMSU. Reflecting on the opportunities these experiences gave me to co-labor with others to improve our campus community fills me with gratitude, and I've found myself seeking avenues to continue this work as a staff member. These days, I work in the College of EHHD Dean's Office and am in the final year of my PhD program. Having worked within multiple units and roles at MSU since 2016, I've gained a keen understanding of our campus culture and operations. I see serving on All Staff Council as an opportunity to: 1) effectively represent and advance the interests of our diverse staff community; and 2) advocate for meaningful resources and support systems that foster staff success and wellbeing. While I can't promise free parking or heftier paychecks, I can promise a commitment to service that is conducive to improving the day-to-day experiences of our MSU staff. Let's do this. 

Caleb Fey

College of Arts and Architecture - Gallery Director

Audrey Capp

University Communications - Director of Communications & PR

Hi! My name is AudreyCapp,and I have been working at MSU for almost 20 years. I currently work for the marketing team in the University Communications office. Prior to that, I had worked for the Jake Jabs College of Business & Entrepreneurship. Thank you for this opportunity! I am excited to have been nominated andI’mlooking forward to bringing my experiences in marketing and communications and my collaborative spirit to the team ifelected.I am passionate about contributing to a positive and inclusive work environment for all staff members andI’mconfident and eager to help strengthencommunicationbetween university entities.  

Emily Mason

University Studies Academic Advising Center - Academic Advisor

This October 2025 will mark my ten-year work anniversary at MSU. For the last six years, I have worked in the University Studies and Academic Advising Center as an Academic Advisor, National Student Exchange Coordinator, and instructor for US 102 Career Connections, a 1-credit major and career exploration class for students who would like more support in choosing a major and career path. Prior to joining University Studies, I worked at the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success as a Success Advisor and MSU Hilleman Scholars Success Coordinator. My goals for serving on All Staff Council are to increase the visibility of the contributions staff make to the university, support efforts to improve staff retention and well-being, and raise awareness of the important work professional advisors do to support the land-grant mission of Montana State. When not at work, I enjoy all the wonders of Montana – hiking, skiing, mountain biking, and paddle boarding with my husband, two dogs, and ifI’m lucky, my two teenage boys, one of whom will be an incomingfreshmanat MSU next year. 

Joel Harris

Facilities Services - Locksmith Foreman

My name is JoelHarris,I am the Access Control Foreman and Locksmith. The Access Control department is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of all of the university mechanical and electrical locking systems. My daily duties include supervising a team of locksmiths, managing key control, coordinating access control needs for the university community and above all else,maintainingcampus security by implementing an effective access control system. I would like to serve on theAll StaffCouncil so that I may help build a stronger, more connected university community. To advocate and communicate the needs and concerns of MSU's professional staff.I'mvery proudto be a part of the university community and I would like to help make others feel welcome and valued. 

Cynthia Gilbert

Human Resources - Benefits Associate

My name is Cindy Gilbert, and I currently serve as a Benefits Associate in Human Resources at Montana State University. In this role, I assist staff with benefits and retirement questions and manage new hire and reappointment processes for approximately half of our campus. While I’ve been in this position for just 10 months, I’m a proud MSU alumna (Class of 2016) who grew up in Bozeman and has always felt a strong connection to the university. During my time at MSU, I’ve come to deeply value the collaborative, student-centered environment that makes this campus special. I’m interested in serving on the All Staff Council because I’m passionate about enhancing the workplace experience for all staff. I believe that staff voices are essential to shaping MSU’s culture, operations, and future success. Through this role, I hope to advocate for staff needs, support improvements in communication and recognition, and help foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment. Serving on the council would be a meaningful way for me to give back to the MSU community and collaborate with colleagues across campus to create a lasting, positive impact. 

Rebecca Eberlin

Off-Campus Student Life - Program Manager

What an honor to be nominated and considered! As an MSU alum as well as current Program Manager for Off-Campus Student Life, I've been fortunate to experience the myriad ways that our incredible staff serve students, the University, and the Bozeman community as a whole.The opportunity to give back to this group in the form of advocacy, communication and strategic goal setting cannot be overstated.It would be a true pleasure to serve my colleagues and peers, and I look forward to the opportunity to do so! 

Alyssa Simmons

Admissions - Associate Director, Operations

I am honored to have been nominated for the All Staff Council at Montana State University. With a commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative campus work environment, I aim to contribute to the ASC's mission of serving as the voice of MSU staff and promoting a culture of inclusion and recognition. In my six years in the Office of Admissions, I have had the privilege of working alongside dedicated colleagues across many departments. This experience has deepened my understanding of the diverse needs and concerns of our staff members. I am particularly passionate about advocating for enhancing workplace wellness initiatives and ensuring that all staff feel valued and supported. I will work diligently to strengthen communication among staff, administration, faculty, and students, ensuring that our collective voices are heard and our contributions recognized. I am committed to upholding the ASC's core values of collaboration, integrity, service excellence, and advocacy, and I would value the opportunity to serve and support our MSU community. Thank you for your consideration.

Brent Lloyd

Gallatin College - Academic Advisor and Support Specialist

My name is BrentLloyd,I am an academic advisor and support specialist for Gallatin College. I am in my second year in this role, but I have been a part of Montana State as a student since 2017, I received both of mydegreesfrom Montana State, and I am a dyed-in-the-wool Bobcat with two alumni for parents. I am passionate about MSU and have been since before arriving, and I believe strongly in the mission that MSU and all ofitsbranches pursue, and I am a strong advocate for the various forms of education that exists at MSU, from one-year certificates to doctoral programs, and the support that is needed for these programs and the students within them to succeed, as well as what the faculty and staff require to provide the best education and experience possible for those who entrust us with their future. I would like to serve on theAll StaffCouncil to continue learning more and becoming more involved with the goings-on around the campus. I am a graduate of Leadership MSU, which I found to be a fantastic experience, and I would like to continue building relationships and awareness of the variousfacetsof the institution we all serve. I would like to provide a voice to the various levels of education that MSU provides, including those who move between two and four-year degree options, and the faculty and staff that serve them. 

Samantha Shaffer

University Police - Threat Assessment Manager

Samantha Shaffer serves as the Threat Assessment Manager for the Montana State University Police Department, where she plays a critical role in enhancing campus safety through proactive risk assessment and strategic coordination. In addition to her primary responsibilities, Samantha is a sorority liaison for the University Police, fostering strong relationships with student organizations and promoting open communication and community engagement. Her collaborative spirit, dedication to student and staff well-being, and commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment make her a strong candidate for the MSU All Staff Council. Samantha is passionate about representing the voices of her colleagues and contributing to a supportive and positive workplace culture across the university.

Tricia Wimbish

English Department - Academic Services Coordinator

I am honored by this nomination! With a Human Resources background, I have gained skills that wouldassistin promoting a positive and collaborative campus work environment and improving employee engagement while supporting MSU's land-grant mission. Before retiring from the HR field in 2022, I had the wonderful experience of working in the MSU HR Department (2013-2015). After a short break, I returned to MSU joining the Department of English as their Academic Services Coordinator, working with students and faculty. I enjoyutilizingmy HR skills in a new perspective. This hasledme to the realization that my skills can be used in other new perspectives which is why I accept this nomination. My goal is to foster and bolster communication across MSU anditspartners, gather a broad range of input, concerns and goals while encouraging a diverse,inclusiveand recognized culture.  

Ryan Dain

Facilities - Custodian II

My name is Ryan Dain. I am a custodian 2 with the facilities department here at Montana State University. I feel that serving on all staff council allows for me to provide a unique perspective from the lens of civic responsibility. As a custodian here on campus, I am on the forefront ofmaintainingthe university and ensuring that it is upheld to the image and standards we set forth as a university. Iseektoprovidethe council and senioradministration withinsight froma staffmemberspoint of view on what it takes to meet andmaintainthese standards. As well as where we can improve overall asa universityto ensure the best working relationship between staff and the university. 

Madison Gordon-Mara

Departent of Sociology & Anthropology/Political Science - Program Coordinator

Hi,I'mMadi! I graduated from MSU in November of 2020 with my BS in Anthropology & Sociology/Criminology. After graduating, I began working for University Student Housing in a variety of positions, from being a Quarantine/Isolation Housing Coordinator, to Summer Housing/Conference Coordinator, to finally working in the Residence Halls managing front desks as a Program Coordinator. These positions allowed me to work with a range of MSU students, staff, and community members. In 2022, left MSU to move to the UK for a bit to receive my master's degree, and while there, had the opportunity to serve as the student president of my department and chair of the Student-Staff Liaison Committee. I rejoined the MSU staff in February 2024 again as a Program Coordinator with University Student Housing and eventually transitioned into my current roles as the Academic Services Coordinator for the Departments of Sociology & Anthropology and Political Science, and NTT instructor for Anthropology. All my roles at MSU highlighted my passion for advocacy, whether for students or my fellow staff members. I would love to serve as a voice of MSU staff on All Staff Council, promoting an environment where we can continue to collaborate and grow as a community. I have loved the MSU community and mission since I started as a student in 2017 and would love any opportunity to continue to build on our strong foundation. 

Mackenzie Williams

The Graduate School - Graduate Admissinons Coordinator 

Hello! My name is Mackenzie, and I am a Graduate Admissions Coordinator. I have had the privilege of working in the Graduate School Office for two years now.I'ma born and raised Montanan and have been in the Bozeman area for over a decade. I absolutely love working with people and enjoy problem solving. I have always enjoyed being involved in mycommunity andwant the opportunity to serve and represent the amazing staff here at MSU! The diverse committees dedicated toassistingstaff in a holistic way really interest me. It would be an honor to work with individuals across campus from many different disciplines. 

Sheridan Pena

College of Letters and Science - Academic Services Manager

Hi, y'all! My name is Sheridan Pena, and I am currently serving as the Academic Services Manager in the College of Letters & Science Dean’s Office. I am interested in taking on a role in All Staff Council, as I am passionate about fostering collaboration among colleagues across campus and promoting a positive working climate. Also, I am committed to ensuring that our staff receive the recognition they rightfully deserve for their dedication and contributions. The hard work put forth by our staff is vital to the success of the university, and I aspire to help nurture an atmosphere of appreciation for all staff members at MSU. If chosen to serve on All Staff Council, I look forward to advocating for a supportive and encouraging work environment for everyone across our campus.

Becky Lonardo

MilTech - Marketing Operations Manager

I am the Marketing Operations Manager at MilTech. I work with senior leadership of MilTech, the Applied Research Lab, and the Institute of National Security Research and Education (INSRE) to develop strategies to advance and meet the goals of each program and associated projects. I also work with MilTech, ARL, and INSRE teams to support current and future projects through process development and implementation, outreach and engagement efforts, and asset creation that meets government customer and industry partner standards. I am interested in joining the All Staff Council because I admire the ways the group contributes to the culture of the University. I also would bring a unique perspective to the Council as an employee of an off-campus program. I do a lot of strategic thinking in my work, and I love coming up with creative ideas to solve problems and engage people. I am excited about the idea of contributing to the MSU community in this way, particularly as a new president comes on board.

Emily Fuchs

Residence Life - Community Director

I graduated from MSU in May 2024 with my bachelor's in chemistryeducation andam currently in a master's program for curriculum and instruction. Throughout my time as a student at MSU I worked as a student employee for all 3 years in University Student housing, and after graduating decided I wanted to continue building the community I had built here. I got a job as a Community Director with University Student housing, overseeing Hannon and The Quads this past year, and North Hedges and the Headwaters Complex this upcoming year. I would bevery excitedto be a part of All Staff Council as I feel like it would bea great wayto get to know more about our campus community as a whole and build relationships with other departments. 

Kaelyn Jackson

Human Resources - HR Associate

My name is KaelynJackson,and I am a Human Resources Associate! I am an MSUalumni andhave a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of this university. We serve important communities, both in education and in employment. Working in Human Resources has brought me the knowledge needed to understand an employee's role at MSU. As a member of All Staff Council, I wouldseekto haveemployees'voicesheard first. In addition to the important matters, I would love to bring an element of fun to the council! I love planning activities and meeting new people. I look forward to the opportunity torepresentour amazing staff!