CUSS History

The Council of University System Staff (CUSS) started meeting in 1992 by request of the Chancellor to advise the Chancellor on matters relating to the development and maintenance of the new pay program for Staff employees. CUSS is comprised of Staff employees with representatives from each of the 13 institutions. Institution membership is proportionate to the number of Staff employees at the individual institutions with a minimum of two representatives per institution. 

In 1995 CUSS presented a bill (SB528) to the Senate and the House. The Senate voted unanimously in favor and the House of Delegates voted overwhelmingly in favor of the codification of CUSS. With its codification CUSS joined the Council of University System Presidents, the Council of University System Faculty and the University System Student Council as an advisory council to the Chancellor. 

CUSS has direct communications with the Chancellor, the Board of Regents, and the  Chancellor's Council. Its responsibility is to consider and make recommendations to these respective parties on issues affecting Staff employees. It is also responsible for keeping the Staff employees informed on CUSS activities and System-related
actions. 

CUSS meetings are held the fourth Tuesday of each month, moving from campus to campus. The chair and past chair of CUSS attend Board of Regents meetings. The chair provides a report to the Regents and the past chair serves as a non-voting staff advisor to the Board of Regents with the same role and responsibility as the faculty advisor which allows participation in closed meetings. CUSS executive staff meet with the Chancellor as often as needed. CUSS representatives also meet with legislators in Annapolis. 

CUSS has been actively involved on technical advisory groups (TAGs) and other advisory committees concerning issues such as non-exempt pay program, early retirement, domestic partners and contingent employment. CUSS is committed to representing staff concerns by continuing to actively participate on all levels within and beyond the University System of Maryland. 

Senate Bill 528

CUSS By-Laws

CUSS Constitution