The Staff Excellence Fund (SEF) Committee oversees the allocation of funding that supports staff‑led projects and initiatives aimed at improving the University of Waterloo workplace. Through a fair and transparent review process, the committee assesses applications, makes funding decisions, and ensures that SEF resources are used in ways that advance staff wellbeing, professional growth, and a positive, inclusive campus culture.
Openings: 1
Deadline: June 5, 2026
Term: July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2028 (renewable twice at the discretion of the committee chair)
What’s involved
Members of the Staff Excellence Fund (SEF) Committee are responsible for:
- Reviewing and assessing funding applications against the SEF criteria and terms of reference.
- Attending scheduled committee meetings and participating in thoughtful, values‑based discussion to reach fair and consistent funding decisions.
- Ensuring decisions are handled with confidentiality and care.
The committee is supported by UWSA staff, who coordinate meetings, prepare application materials, and provide guidance on process and policy.
Please see the SEF Committee terms of reference for more information.
Qualifications
The Staff Excellence Fund Committee functions best with members who are:
- Conscientious, collaborative, and equity minded.
- Excited about seeing staff apply their passions, expertise, and experience in new and valuable ways.
- Self-reflective and committed to challenging implicit biases.
- Willing to share their thoughts and opinions with the committee while holding space for the perspectives of others.
- Able to treat and discuss applications with sensitivity and confidentiality.
- Familiarity with UW procurement policies and procedures is a nice bonus.
All UWSA Voting Members are eligible, including those whose current contracts end within the advertised term of this appointment.
Time commitment
The committee meets virtually approximately 4–5 times a year for one hour on an as-needed basis. Some reading preparation is required with (typically) 1–3 applications for review prior to each meeting. Applications vary in length but are typically 2–6 pages long.
Participation rights and recognition
Members have the right to participate in UWSA business under the Memorandum of Agreement between the UWSA and the University of Waterloo, as long as participation does not unreasonably interfere with a member’s duties to the University.
Upon request, committee members will receive a letter from the UWSA president and/or relevant committee chair outlining contributions to the role and its value to the Association, for use in performance appraisal.
How to apply
Please complete the UWSA committee application form by June 5. Applications will be reviewed by June 19.
Please direct any questions to the chair of the UWSA Staff Excellence Fund Committee, Laura McDonald.