We are endorsing Melissa Plath in the University of Helsinki Collegium Elections. Melissa is a shop-steward and Vice-Chair of HUART, who we know will be a brilliant advocate for staff in the Collegium. We encourage our members in University Services to vote Melissa – candidate number 4 from the ‘middle group’ – in the election which takes place 24-25 February. Find out more about Melissa below…
Who am I?
I am Melissa Plath, candidate No 4, representing the University Services (YPA) in the election for the Collegium of the University of Helsinki. I work as a project manager for Una Europa, in the international affairs unit of research services.
I am also vice-chair of the Helsinki University Association for Researchers and Teachers (HUART) and a shop steward (union representative). With the union, I’ve been working to make the university better for everyone, and I would like to continue this work in the Collegium.
I am a member of the university’s international community – originally from the United States, but now also a Finnish citizen. I’ve worked for over 15 years in different Finnish universities and on projects with partners from around the world, which has given me insights not only on different ways of working in universities, but also what works (and what doesn’t).
Why am I running?
I am running because I want to ensure the concerns and perspectives of university services personnel are heard in one of the most important discussion forums within the University. The university, and YPA, has been undergoing significant changes, which have brought new opportunities but also caused uncertainty and concern. As these changes continue, the university community must be central and active in their further design and direction. I will bring this perspective and a critical but constructive voice to the discussions taking place within the Collegium, ensuring the voice of university staff (whether YPA or academic) is heard.
More information on my views can be found from my candidate profile: https://flamma.helsinki.fi/en/profile/-/profile/15023939.
HUART is the largest trade association among the academic staff at UH. Therefore, it would be important for the association to be represented in the Collegium. But if I am elected, I want to work in the interest of the whole university. I believe that I have the right experience and integrity to serve as a member of the Collegium. I am committed to work for a full boycott of Israeli academic institutions because of the genocide in Gaza.
The Collegium is an important forum for discussion, where the perspectives of university staff and students are shared. Therefore, transparency and discussion with the community are important. This means I want to hear from you and, if I’m elected, I am committed to developing channels for discussion and listening. In case you want more information about me and my agenda, feel free to contact me through email: melissa.plath@helsinki.fi. I would also appreciate if you would share information about my candidacy among your colleagues in YPA!