Staff Council Member Elections

 

Jacqueline Conde

Program Manager II, Student Services

Jacqueline has worked for the University of Houston for almost four years, three years at the College of Optometry and one year at the College of Pharmacy. She is passionate about the engagement of current students, recruitment of prospective students, and implementing creative ways to interact with students, faculty and staff. She has experience in event planning, advising, graphic design and overall team leadership. Jacqueline is proud to be a University of Houston Cougar and hopes to make more of a difference in the UH community.

Antonious Douglas

Program Manager II, Earth & Atmospheric Sciences

Antonius (Toni) Douglas currently serves as a Program Manager 2 in the Earth & Atmospheric Sciences department, where she has been a dedicated team member for the past four years. In her role as Assistant to the Chairman, she brings over 10 years of experience in administrative support, demonstrating strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to excellence. Toni is passionate about supporting staff, improving communication, and fostering a collaborative and inclusive workplace. She is eager to represent her colleagues’ voices and contribute to positive, meaningful change through Staff Council

  

Lauren Jackson

Program Manager II, Retention and Grad Initiatives

Lauren D. Jackson (LJ) is the Assistant Director for Transition and Family Programs in the Office of Retention and Graduation Initiatives at the University of Houston. She first joined UH in November 2024 as a Recruitment Specialist and became Program Manager for Campus Visits and Events in February 2025, leading efforts to improve prospective student engagement and campus visit experiences. Now, she focuses on aiding student transition, retention, and family involvement to promote student success. Before UH, LJ worked at the University of Houston-Downtown (UHD) in several roles while earning her degrees, most recently as Coordinator of Admissions Recruitment. She also served three years as a Staff    Council Ambassador, which deepened her commitment to shared governance and staff advocacy. LJ holds both a B.S. and an MBA from UHD and is dedicated to fostering collaboration, engagement, and staff voice through Staff Council at UH.

Mariel Rocha-Narvaez

Program Director I, Graduate School

I serve as Program Director I for Finance and Operations at the University of Houston Graduate School, where I manage financial processes, compliance, and cross-functional initiatives. I joined UH in 2018 and have grown through multiple roles, gaining experience in data analysis, reporting, and process improvement across graduate education programs. I serve as Program Director I for Finance and Operations at the University of Houston Graduate School, where I manage financial processes, compliance, and cross-functional initiatives. I joined UH in 2018 and have grown through multiple roles, gaining experience in data analysis, reporting, and process improvement across graduate education programs. I’m interested in serving on Staff Council because I value collaboration and believe staff perspectives are critical to improving how we operate as an institution. I enjoy working across departments, identifying opportunities for improvement, and helping implement solutions that support both staff and leadership.

Jessica Rosa

Assistant to Dean, Architecture and Design

Jessica Rosa is the Assistant to the Dean at the Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture and Design at the University of Houston, where she supports executive operations, faculty affairs, and college initiatives within Academic Affairs. She has several years of experience in higher education administration, along with a background in clinical and academic environments, and brings strong skills in organization, communication, and service. Jessica is passionate about staff engagement, professional development, and building a supportive campus community. She is currently assisting with the development of new onboarding resources for staff to help improve communication and streamline administrative processes within the college. Through Staff Council, Jessica hopes to contribute to initiatives that strengthen collaboration across divisions, support staff growth, and promote a positive and connected experience for employees at the University of Houston.

Brenda Sustaita

Patient Access Specialist (OPT), Optometry Clinic

Amazing Energy very considerate, very optimistic nothing is difficult for her very Dependable. GREAT TEAM PLAYER!

Trever Thomas  

Program Director I, Dean Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

Ms. Trever L. Thomas - is a Program Director in the Valenti School of Communication (CLASS) and functions as Adjunct Instructor with the Office of Undergraduate Student Success. Since joining UH in 2018, she has represented Academic Affairs and became a member of Staff Council in 2023. She currently serves on one Standing Committee (Staff Engagement) and two University-wide Committees (Food Advisor Council and Hearing Board) and is committed to continuing her serves and advocacy on behalf of UH Staff.

 

 

 

Amany Elneklawy

Accounts Payable Analyst, Accounts Payable        

Driven by a commitment to accuracy, efficiency, and supporting others, Amany Elneklawy serves as an Accounts Payable Analyst in the Office of Finance at the University of Houston. She specializes in P-Card administration, financial compliance, and process improvement, helping departments across UH operate more effectively and confidently.

Amany is known for turning complex processes into clear, practical solutions and for her ability to support colleagues with patience, clarity, and professionalism. She consistently works to improve workflows, strengthen communication, and make financial processes more accessible for staff.

As a candidate for Staff Council, Amany is dedicated to being a strong, dependable voice for staff—advocating for transparency, meaningful improvements, and a more connected, supportive work environment across all UH divisions. Your voice. Clear solutions. Real impact.

Debbie Samuels

Sr IT Project Manager, UIT Security           

Debbie Samuels has been employed at the University of Houston University for fifteen years. Debbie's role as the Director, UH System Enterprise Security Projects for IT Security has allowed her to director several successful project engagements for the UH, UH Clear Lake, UH Downtown and TX A&M Victoria, formerly known an UH Victoria. Debbie attended the UH Main Campus for three years after relocating to Houston and received her B.S. in Management Information Systems from the University of Houston Downtown and a M.S. in Management Information Systems from Houston Christian University, formerly known as Houston Baptist University. She met her husband, a UH track star while attending UH and married at the A.D. Bruce Chapel 30 years ago. We have three children and two granddaughters and one great grandson. One daughter, Samiyah graduated from UH Main University in December 2020 and followed her father's footsteps as a standout UH track star and 2016, 2020, 2024 US Olympic Long Jump Qualifier and represented the University of Houston throughout her Track & Field Career. I appreciate the opportunity to serve on the UH Staff Council as a Co-Chair for now named Staff Empowerment Community and as an officer on the SC Executive Committee as the Parliamentarian. Serving as the staff council SEC Committee co-chair for fiscal years 2022, 2023 and 2024 was an amazing opportunity for me personally and professionally with great benefits and rewards. I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with some of the most amazing UH faculty and staff at UH. It was very rewarding to assist in the SEC initiatives and events including HERStory Workplace Conversations, the Book Club, and the MLK Jr. collaborations with CSAC. I would say the most rewarding event in my role as Co-chair for SEC was the UH Staff & Student Voter Registration and Election Awareness event at the UH Student Center.  I am happy to see how the SEC committee has grown its membership, goals and initiatives and am honored to have been a part of the many accomplishments and successes.  I look forward to the new changes and opportunities ahead for the committee.

It has also been a pleasure working with the UH Staff Council Leadership as the Parliamentarian. I am eager to utilize my project management and communications resources to help in continuing the work towards the UH Staff Council mission and growing the council.

I would like to serve on Staff Council because I like to serve and fellowship with people on wonderful causes to improve, enhance and offer leadership and teamwork toward positive mission and initiatives for the university, people and programs.

Ahmad Shareef

Assistant VP Facilities Services, Facilities Management

I'm honored to be the Assistant Vice President for the Facilities Services team, where we build and maintain the environments for our students and staff to thrive. I'm also a proud University of Houston alumnus from the Conrad N. Hilton College. While a student at UH, I represented my fellow students as a Student Senator is the Student Government Association. This is where I learned the value and positive impact of service to others. As an executive leader, I also know that our human capital is our most valuable resource (People). Everything we do is either through people, with people, and ultimately for people. Having the opportunity to be an advocate for others would be a privilege and an honor. I'm committed to investing the time and energy required to be a responsible member of Staff Council that produces positive results.

Tiffany Taylor

Contract Compliance Analyst, Financial Reporting

I have worked at the University of Houston for the past 26 years. Early on, I became involved with Staff Council as a volunteer through CFI. I have since then became a member of Staff Council and have served as the Secretary for the past 2 years. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to continuing to be part of the positive change we create together. Go Coogs!

Victoria Foster

Academic Advisor II, Engineering Graduate Programs

With extensive experience in college readiness and student success, I bring expertise in academic advising, mentoring, student affairs, and holistic student support. I have served in multiple leadership roles, developing strong skills in project and case management across nonprofit organizations, federal TRIO programs, and higher education administration.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Baldwin Wallace University and a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas Tech University. I am currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Houston Christian University, with an expected graduation of May 2027.

Anthony Schrock

Dir, Revenue Cycle Mgt (COM), Clinic Enterprise

Anthony Schrock Jr. has been working at UH Health Family Care Center as the Director of Revenue Cycle since 2023. Not only is he a leader for the health center but he consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to collaboration, communication, and service, making them an excellent representative of our staff community. He has worked with other departments as well as health colleges and is someone that many can lean on. He brings a thoughtful and solutions-oriented perspective, actively support their colleagues, and embodies the values of UH through his daily work.

 

Marie Chacon

Program Coordinator, Medical Education (COM)

Marie Chacon consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication, professionalism, and teamwork in her role. She approaches every task with a strong sense of responsibility and attention to detail, ensuring that processes run smoothly and efficiently. Marie is highly reliable and proactive, often anticipating needs and addressing challenges before they arise.

Her commitment to supporting both students and colleagues is evident in her daily interactions. She communicates clearly, remains approachable, and is always willing to lend a helping hand. Marie’s ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining accuracy and organization is a true asset to the team.

In addition, Marie contributes positively to the work environment by fostering collaboration and maintaining a solution-oriented mindset. Her willingness to take initiative and continuously improve processes reflects her strong work ethic and dedication to excellence.

Marie Chacon’s consistent performance, positive attitude, and commitment to the department make her a highly deserving candidate for this nomination.

Dr. Karl A. Hearne 

Executive Administrative Assistant, Neighborhood & Strategic Initiatives        

Dr. Karl A. Hearne serves as Executive Assistant to the Vice President for Neighborhood and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Houston, where he provides administrative leadership, advances university wide strategic initiatives, and strengthens partnerships between the university and the surrounding community.

Dr. Hearne has been an active member of the UH Staff Council since 2013 and has held several leadership roles, including Immediate Past President, President, President Elect, Historian, and Co-Chair of the Appointments and Community Outreach Committees. Passionate about staff advocacy and service, he is committed to advocating for UH staff.

During his time as Staff Council President, Dr. Hearne expanded campus and community partnerships, coordinated Cougar First Impressions with more than 250 staff volunteers, and successfully advocated with university leadership to secure a one-time $2,000 financial assistance payment for eligible staff. He also assisted in organizing a professional development series with UH Human Resources, led community service initiatives including planting 600 trees in Houston’s Third Ward, and represented UH in Austin at UH Day at the Capitol advocating for university legislative priorities.

Dr. Hearne received the University of Houston President’s Excellence Community Service Award in 2019 and serves as a UH co coordinator for the State Employee Charitable Campaign, helping raise thousands of dollars annually for Texas charities.

Christie Penzien               

Asst Director, Comm Access (SAC), Student Accessibility Center

Since joining the University of Houston in 2017, I have dedicated my career to fostering an inclusive and accessible campus environment. Currently serving as the Assistant Director of Communication Access at the Justin Dart, Jr. Student Accessibility Center, I lead a team of ten sign language interpreters and captioning professionals to support the university community. My interest in Staff Council is rooted in a desire to represent the diverse voices of our staff while advocating for holistic wellbeing. Having already served in a temporary seat, I have contributed to the Student Centers Policy Board, TYCTWD, and Cougar First Impressions. As a proud alumna and staff member, I am eager to continue this service for a full three-year term, ensuring that staff interests remain a priority in our university’s strategic growth.

Micah Obregon 

Administrative Coordinator, Student Center

My name is Micah Obregon, and I've been at the University of Houston since November of 2023. I am the Administrative Coordinator for the Student Centers, Secretary for the Student Centers Policy Board, and Co-Chair for the Student Centers Sustainability Committee. I have an interest in policy and education. I am advocate for equity, mental health, and environmental awareness and change. I would love the opportunity to act as a voice for decisions made in favor of our students and staff

Jeffrey Lautenberger

Media Productions Manager, University Marketing

Jeff is the current Staff Council representative for the Division of University Marketing and Communication, where he works as the Manager of Media Productions. His previous Staff Council leadership roles include Communications Committee co-chair and Historian. He has been at UH since 2019, originally working as the Photographer/Videographer for the Cullen College of Engineering.

Sandra Bazan

Dir, Division Business Operations, UH Energy

Sandra Bazan is the Director of Business Operations for the Division of Energy and Innovation. She has been a UH staff member since 2009 and has grown in various roles in her time here at UH. Her experience spans finance, HR, project management, and stakeholder engagement, giving her a unique perspective on staff needs and institutional goals. In her role within the division, she ensures processes are aligned and drives efforts for cross collaborations with staff, leadership and UH internal and external community partners. Sandra has an approachable leadership style, vocal for staff, improving workplace culture, and fostering growth and connection across the division and campus. Through Staff Council, Sandra will be a clear advocate for staff & will contribute to a positive and productive campus where all employees feel valued and supported and drive the institution towards excellence.