It's kind of the trickle-down theory. To a certain extent it's gentle pressure, perhaps, constant reminders. The institution was faculty governed for quite some time. Solely faculty governed. We have to educate and get our folks used to changes.
Governance affects their work environment.
It has helped set appointments, layoff times, all the employment pieces of our work. Governance also gives us the opportunity to shape the programs and departments we work in. It makes your working environment successful. As far as participation in governance, the one thing I've found to be most beneficial is making connections with people in other departments. It's surprising how I'm able, in an arts department, to use a connection in a science.