The officers of the College determine the need for committees to explore specific topics or issues and develop the appropriate group structure. By doing so, they specifically and tacitly send the message that committee participation is doing the work of the College.

It is important to emphasize the positive impact of the individual's participation in committee work, both to the individual and the College. The College benefits by having a large number of willing and interested staff from which to choose committee participants and from the knowledge they bring to the group process.

Individual staff participants are able to contribute to the College in a meaningful way, often on matters of interest not directly related to their jobs, and develop a new dimension to their sense of belonging and their ability to make a difference. It is essential that the individual staff participant communicate with one's supervisor and assist in determining work schedules and assignments in conjunction with the participant's work, the work of others, and the effective progress of the department's work.

Obtaining prior approval from your supervisor is essential for successful committee involvement on the part of the individual staff participant, the College and departmental operations. Continued communication with one's supervisor and co-workers can help prevent work-stress problems. Communication can also promote equitable committee participation among staff members within a department and consistent work priorities.