About Us
We’re here to support and represent professional staff through advocacy, connection and development opportunities. With members from across campus, we build community and advocate for staff by:
- Representing staff in conversations with Western Michigan University leadership.
- Fostering connection and collaboration.
- Supporting professional growth and recognizing achievements.
- Providing access to scholarships for dependents who attend WMU.
- Promoting open communication across campus.
Our mission
The Professional Staff Association of Western advocates for the interests and concerns of University staff through engagement with University leadership and we foster collegiality and community among our members to support their well-being.
Our vision
The Professional Staff Association of Western inspires positive change for our community by empowering staff to thrive and grow in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Guiding documents
Our work is grounded in two key documents:
- Constitution and Bylaws – Defining our structure, purpose and governance.
- Strategic Plan – Outlining our priorities and direction.
Becoming PSAW
In May 2024, the membership of the Administrative Professional Association approved a constitutional amendment to change our name to the Professional Staff Association of Western (PSAW). Our new name brings clarity of purpose for new members and better reflects our organization's direction and strategic focus.
PSAW Statement of Support
The Professional Staff Association of Western acknowledges WMU's broad definition of diversity approved by the WMU Board of Trustees in 2006 in the Diversity and Multiculturalism Action Plan. PSAW stands in support of the Western Student Association and its Statement of Solidarity, believes in the leadership of our students, and greatly values the diversity of our community. PSAW stands in support of the WMU-AAUP Resolution in Solidarity with Western Michigan University Students issued by the WMU chapter of the Association of American University Professors. PSAW is committed to assuring that our community members feel included, accepted, respected, and empowered, (see DMAP, page 8) in an institution where diversity is practiced, celebrated, affirmed, and vigorously pursued, (DMAP, page 9).