Name: Cori Splain
Workplace: Division of Enrollment Management
Role: Chief of Staff & Director for Strategic Initiatives
What are your role and job responsibilities at UW–Madison?
Being a chief of staff is kind of like being a utility player at times. I provide oversight, guidance, and collaborative problem solving for projects of high importance that span a variety of different functional areas. I also serve as the chief advisor to the Vice Provost for Enrollment Management and act as a main point of contact between university leadership and other stakeholders on behalf of the Division of Enrollment Management.
What is the coolest, most interesting, or rewarding project you have worked on?
One of the most rewarding projects I’ve worked on at UW–Madison has been supporting the development and growth of the Student Success Through Applied Research (SSTAR) Lab. The SSTAR Lab is an independent research center located within the Office of Student Financial Aid within the Division of Enrollment Management that functions as a research-practice partnership. I’ve had the opportunity to help build the Lab’s infrastructure, strengthen partnerships, and contribute in the translation of research into practices that directly improve student outcomes. It’s been incredibly meaningful to contribute to a space where data, collaboration, and innovation come together to support student success.
What is something you have learned from participating in Academic Staff activities?
Through my involvement in Academic Staff activities, whether it be the Academic Staff Institute or different shared governance spaces, I’m reminded how valuable it is to bring people together from across the university. When Academic Staff from different schools, colleges, and divisions share their experiences, challenges, and ideas, it creates a level of learning and connection that simply doesn’t happen when you interact with just your own unit. I always walk away with a broader perspective and a renewed appreciation for the collective expertise that exists across campus.
You serve on the Compensation and Economic Benefits Committee (CEBC), which is one of the standing committees of the Academic Staff Assembly. What does the CEBC do?
I have been the co-chair of the Compensation and Economic Benefits Committee (CEBC) since 2020. CEBC is charged with the review of policies and procedures relating to academic staff compensation, fringe benefits, and other economic benefits, and with making recommendations to the Academic Staff Assembly on matters in these areas. In my time with CEBC, we have focused on a variety of different topics spanning from more HR-focused items such as the Title & Total Compensation project, the Compensation Center of Excellence, and salary range data comparisons, to items that are more focused on the experiences and morale of Academic Staff like the Staff Climate Survey. Currently, CEBC’s main focus is on providing more resources to Academic Staff who may be experiencing a job or income loss.
What is your favorite place on campus or favorite way to take a break from screens?
The Chazen is one of my favorite spots to take a break on campus because it’s so close to where I work at 333 East Campus Mall. Every time I go, I notice something new!
Do you have any hobbies?
I love to read and, when the weather is warmer, I enjoy playing bocce at the East Side Club.
What is the latest or greatest concert, performance, or art exhibit you attended?
On our way back from our annual trip of visiting family in Florida and Georgia, my family stopped in Nashville and saw POMP, SNOW, & CIRQUEumstance at Opryland. It was a cute show with incredibly impressive circus arts performances. It’s always great to see shows that blend all sorts of different types of art and highlight the variety of talent that exists in the world.