Join a Committee

Committees are an important way for members to participate more fully in the work of our Association. They give members a chance to lend their voice and expertise to a specific area of focus.

Serving on a committee is also an excellent learning experience, as it provides a broader understanding of how our Association operates. Ultimately, committees provide valuable recommendations to the Statewide Officers and the Executive Board.

2025-2026 UMPSA Committees

Ad-hoc Contract Language Committee

Co-Chairs:  Rusty Dolleman, University of Southern Maine & Frear Hook, University of Maine at Augusta

The Ad-Hoc Contract Language Committee is charged with reviewing and refining the language of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) to ensure it is clear, accurate, and reflects the best interests of all union members.  The committee will work to prepare recommendations for contract language changes to the Contract Negotiation Team.

Core responsibilities include:

  • Meet monthly prior to UMPSA Executive Board meetings.
  • Track all proposed changes to the CBA.
  • Review the list of CBA priorities from the last Negotiation Team.
  • Identify and correct grammar, punctuation, and formatting issues within the CBA.
  • Revise language to ensure it is inclusive of all union members.
  • Draft new articles or edit current article language to improve members’ professional rights and working conditions.

The committee will consist of a maximum of nine members representing multiple campuses. Ideal candidates are those with a passion for writing, a strong attention to detail regarding grammar and syntax, and experience with policy or legal writing.

If you are interested, please complete the Contract Language Committee Interest Form. 

Communications Committee

Chair:  Ariel Cassista, University of Maine at Augusta 

The UMPSA Communications Committee is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive communication strategy to keep members and non-members informed and engaged throughout the year.

Core responsibilities include: 

  • Strategic Planning: Create and maintain an annual communications schedule, outlining a thoughtful and proactive plan for all communications.
  • Routine Communications: Manage all recurring communications, including but not limited to:
    • Monthly Newsletters: Develop and distribute a monthly newsletter to keep members informed.
    • Website Management: Ensure the UMPSA website is regularly updated with news, events, and relevant information.
    • Event Notifications: Plan and send out notifications for upcoming events and important happenings.
    • Membership Campaigns: Manage regular email communications to the membership.
  • Member Engagement: Conduct surveys as needed to gauge the “pulse” of the membership and gather valuable feedback.

The committee will consist of a maximum of 7 members representing multiple campuses. Ideal candidates are those with a passion for copy writing, a strong attention to detail regarding grammar and syntax, and experience with communications and marketing, as well as marketing systems. The Chair will seek committee volunteers and determine who serves on the committee.  They will also work with committee members to plan a meeting schedule.

If you are interested, please complete the Communications Committee Interest Form. 

Membership Committee

Chair: Sara Abronze, University of Southern Maine

The UMPSA Membership Committee is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to increase union membership, engage current members, and foster a strong sense of community across the association.

Core responsibilities include: 

  • Member Outreach & Recruitment: Develop and execute campaigns to recruit new members and welcome them to the union.
  • Member Engagement: Create initiatives and events that foster a sense of community and encourage active participation from all members.
  • Member Retention: Identify and escalate the needs and concerns of current members to the Campus/Grievance Representative(s) to ensure they remain engaged and feel supported.
  • Strategic Planning: Develop an annual plan for membership drives and engagement activities, including well-defined goals and key milestones.
  • Data & Surveys: Periodically conduct surveys to gather feedback, gauge member satisfaction, and understand the needs of the membership.

The committee will consist of a maximum of 10 members representing various campuses and departments. Ideal candidates are those who are passionate about the union’s mission, enjoy meeting and interacting with people, and have experience with outreach, recruitment, or community-building initiatives. The Chair will lead the member selection process and work with the committee to establish a regular meeting schedule.  

If you are interested, please complete the Membership Committee Interest Form.