SUCSAC Employee Advisory Committee

The State Universities Civil Service Advisory Committee (SUCSAC) to the Merit Board SUCSAC, also referred to as the Employee Advisory Committee (EAC), is the only committee mandated by Section 36c of the Civil Service Act (110 ILCS 70/36c).   The members of the committee are elected by civil service employees at each of the Universities and Agencies served.

The elected members of EAC committee, have chosen to go above and beyond their civil service employment by making the commitment to serve the State of Illinois and fellow civil service employees by representing them on this advisory committee.  Committee members represent their constituents by functioning in an advisory capacity to the Merit Board on "All matters pertaining to the University System."  The Committee meets at least quarterly at campuses throughout the state, welcoming civil service employees at the particular campus to attend.

The powers and duties of the Merit Board are set forth in section 36d of the State Universities Civil Service Act (110 ILCS 70/36d) as follows:

• To approve a classification plan and delegate to its Executive Director the duty of assigning positions to appropriate classes.

• To prescribe the duties of each class of positions.

• To prescribe the range of compensation for each class or to fix a single rate of compensation for employees in a particular class.

• To approve ranges and rates for the payment of wages paid generally in the community for work of a similar character.

• To recommend standards of hours of work, holidays, sick leave, overtime compensation and vacation.

• To prescribe standards of examinations for each class, the examinations to be related to the duties of such class.

• To authorize continuous recruitment and to delegate to the Executive Director and staff the power and duty to conduct open and continuous competitive examinations for all classifications.

• To cause to be established from the results of examinations registers for each class of positions.

• To provide by its rules for promotions in the classified service.

• To provide by its rules for employment of physically handicapped persons.

• To make and publish rules, to carry out the purpose of the University System, and for examination, appointment, transfer, and removals to include layoffs.

• To appoint an Executive Director and such assistants and other clerical and technical help as may be necessary to efficiently administer the Act. To submit to the Governor on or before November l of each year prior to the regular session of the General Assembly a report of the University System’s business and an estimate of the amount of appropriation from state funds required for the purpose of administering the University System.

• To review transcripts of hearings and findings of fact as made by hearing boards and enter decisions and orders in discharge and demotion proceedings.

 

UIC Human Resources and the Staff Advisory Council are pleased to announce and congratulate:

Jemila Burton is serving a partial term June 24, 2025 through December 31, 2025.

Mirella Layla Campos is serving a term January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2027.

Brian Miller is serving a term June 24, 2025 through December 31, 2028.

Brandy Perry is serving a term January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2029.

Mirella “Layla" Campos

Layla Campos

Certified Medical Assistant
Internal Medicine Center

Mirella “Layla” Campos is passionate about resolving workplace issues that bring meaningful change and allow workers and their families to thrive. She has given 18 years of service to the University of Illinois­ Chicago as a Certified Medical Assistant. She has been a proud Local 73 union member since she started working for UIC, and for the past three years has defended the rights of her coworkers as a Local 73 union steward. Layla has recently joined the bargaining committee for the first time and is co-captain of the Technical Bargaining committee. Her dedication to protecting the health and safety of her coworkers, patients, and visitors resulted in her receiving the 2019 Staff Advisory Council Professional Development Award. Layla is also enrolled in the Labor Leadership Program at DePaul University on a scholarship provided in part by 25th Ward Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez and DePaul University.

Layla also uses her artistic talents to support social movements across the United States and Latin America. She volunteered with the organization “Las Caras Lindas,” empowering young Chicagoans to explore the city’s diversity through art. She has organized fundraisers through art galleries and music sets showcasing local and international acts. When she is not advocating for labor rights and social justice, she is spending time with her two children.

Layla serves a term January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2027.

Brian Miller

Brian Miller

Medical Education Program Specialist
College of Medicine

Brian Miller joined UIC as a volunteer in December 2016 and got his first position as an extra-help employee in 2017. Brian is now a Medical Education Program Specialist in the College of Medicine.

From the outset, Brian knew he wanted to build a career at the University, but he did not anticipate developing such a deep admiration for its mission and values. He witnessed the unwavering dedication of staff members working in service to students and patients—often without recognition. These experiences sparked in Brian a commitment to support and elevate the voices of his fellow employees.

Brian believes that the University owes a profound debt of gratitude to its employees. It is the employees’ commitment and sacrifice that upholds the University’s mission and keeps it moving forward. In his former role, Brian was an active member of SEIU Local 73 and served as a Chief Steward. In this capacity, he was a contract captain during the 2020 contract negotiations, was a leader in labor management meetings where he advocated for better working conditions and fair compensation for workers. One of his proudest achievements was winning an arbitration case regarding stolen overtime pay for clerical staff—an effort that underscores his dedication to employee rights. More recently, on May 30, 2025, Brian won an Unfair Labor Practice charge he filed as well.

Brian continues his advocacy through his role on the Staff Advisory Council, where he works to amplify staff concerns and ensure their perspectives are heard. He considers this work both vital and sacred. With a proven record of representation, action, and accountability, Brian is confident he is the right choice to serve on the State Universities Civil Service Advisory Committee.

Brian serves a term June 24, 2025 through December 31, 2028.

Brandy Perry

Administrative Aide
Transplant Center – EEI

 I was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago by my grandmother, who taught me what strength and real love look like. Her influence shaped so much of who I am today. I’m one of five siblings and a proud mom—family and friendship mean everything to me. Some of my favorite moments are the simple ones: laughing together, sharing stories, and making memories that last.

 I started working at UIC in 2015 and have worked in several departments over the years. Each role has taught me something new, and through it all, I’ve stayed committed to learning and growing. Right now, I’m also working toward my degree in Public Health at Eastern Illinois University, because I want to keep building my skills and make a bigger impact in my community.

 My faith has always been a guiding force in my life. As an active member of my church, I hold close the belief that “with God, nothing shall be impossible.” That faith has carried me through tough times and continues to keep me grounded and focused.

 I’ve also become more involved in union work. I’m a proud member of SEIU Local 73 and currently working toward becoming a Steward. I want to learn more and be a strong advocate for others—to speak up, support my coworkers, and help build a more unified workplace.

 My decision to join the Universities Civil Service Advisory Committee comes from reflecting on my own journey—where I started, what I’ve overcome, and how far I’ve come. I’ve faced challenges that weren’t always easy, but they gave me purpose. Now, I feel it’s time to give back. I’m passionate about helping others who might be walking a similar path, and I want to be a voice for them. I’m also excited to continue growing as a leader, connect with others who share my values, and be part of creating meaningful, lasting change within the university system.

Brandy serves a term January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2029.