The Professional Staff Council is a standing committee of the College Senate.


For over forty years, the Professional Staff of Purchase College, have organized as a formal body to allow for the meaningful association to:

  • Participate in the governance of the College; actively influence the decision-making process of the College, both for immediate and long-range issues.
  • Provide a forum for discussion of common areas of concern among professional staff employees.
  • Provide opportunities for personal and professional growth and development.
  • Collaborate with the professionals’ unions, human resources, and faculty on common interests.

All professional staff are welcome to attend our Professional Staff Council meetings, participate as members of standing and ad hoc committees, and join us for sponsored events. 

Why should staff members take part in shared governance on campus?

As vital members of the campus community, staff members play an important role on the College Senate and on senate committees that focus on budget, strategic planning, sustainability, and DEIC. Additional opportunities include staff-specific committees through the Professional Staff Council that focus on professional development, communications, and staff awards.

In addition to networking, gaining institutional knowledge, and developing leadership skills, Professional Staff members are encouraged to volunteer and sit on committees as part of their service to the college, which is reviewed annually by their supervisors in their Performance Program and Evaluation. Therefore, supervisors are also reminded to encourage their staff members to contribute to shared governance when possible.