President's Address
Dear LSU Colleagues,
It is an honor to serve as your Staff Senate President for 2025–2026. LSU staff are the backbone of our university, and the Staff Senate is here to ensure you feel supported as you support our students, faculty, fellow staff, and the broader campus community.
This year, we’re focused on action. We’ve launched new committees dedicated to staff wellbeing, enhancing the senator experience, improving our nomination and election processes, and expanding opportunities for volunteering and fundraising. We’re also exploring the development of a Staff Emergency Fund—all with one goal in mind: making LSU not just a place to work, but a great place to work.
We’re encouraged by another year of merit increases for employees, reflecting LSU’s investment in its workforce. While we recognize the rising cost of living continues to impact many, these raises are a step in the right direction. We will continue to work with university leadership to find ways to support staff both financially and professionally.
We also hear your concerns around parking and dependent tuition/fees. These conversations are ongoing, and we are committed to ensuring staff voices remain part of the dialogue. Transparency and regular communication will continue to guide our efforts.
Already, we’re seeing what we can accomplish together. Our recent School Supplies Drive is a testament to the generosity of the LSU community, helping families start the school year prepared. We provided up to 200 school supplies bags to staff. It’s a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we come together in support of one another. This event wouldn’t have been possible without the donations from you, Campus Federal, and the senators who volunteered.
In July, we welcomed new senators and introduced our 2025–2026 Executive Committee during our annual swearing-in ceremony. This team brings energy, ideas, and a deep commitment to service. I’m truly excited to work alongside them this year.
To stay connected, I’ll be hosting office hours, both in person and virtually, where you’re invited to share your ideas, ask questions, or just check in. Please feel free to email me at qlee@lsu.edu. Whether it’s through these sessions or our upcoming virtual listening session on August 29, 2025, please know that my door—and calendar—are always open.
As we move through the academic year, I also want to recognize the incredible effort staff contribute to Move-In Day and Commencement. These are not only high-energy, campus-wide events but also moments that showcase the heart of LSU—our people. From welcoming students and families to celebrating graduates and their loved ones, your presence and dedication make these milestones memorable. Thank you, Registrar and Residence Life staff, for these two spectacular events.
This past month has been one of learning and transition. I may already be known as “the sock lady” at UAB—but that story’s for another day. What I can tell you is that I’m ready for what lies ahead. Higher education is evolving, and together we can turn change into opportunity.
At LSU, “We Build Teams That Win.” Those wins begin with the people behind the scenes—our staff. Your work powers this university, and your dedication makes all the difference. Let’s make this year one of collaboration, progress, and shared pride in all we accomplish together.
Geaux Tigers,
Quinneka McDonald
President, LSU Staff Senate (2025–2026)