Professional Staff Senate Profile: Stephen Hart

How long have you worked at UB?

I have worked at UB a total of 6 and a half years. I have been in a professional staff position for 3.5 years. Currently, I am the Facilities Coordinator in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. Previously, I was an Academic Support Specialist in the Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering for almost 3.5 years. Before this position, I worked in the civil service sector of UB in Facilities and Operations as a cleaner and Campus Mail as a Motor Vehicle Operator.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy helping students achieve their goals by providing the best student services that I can. Additionally, I enjoy collaborating with departmental colleagues and institutional offices to help achieve shared goals that are connected to the mission of the institution.

What’s the most difficult part about your job?

The most difficult part of my job is adapting to an ever-changing world. Coordinating projects that include multiple constituents can be difficult.

What would you say is your biggest achievement at UB?

I would say my biggest achievement at UB is moving from the civil service side to the professional side and being successful in my current professional position. I have helped make departmental processes more efficient, which helps students succeed.

Tell us something about your department that isn't well known.

One thing about my department that may not be well known is that it is the second largest department in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences.

If you were to share some advice for other professional staff, what would it be?

Always utilize professional development opportunities! UB offers a lot to its employees - from the union tuition vouchers, and SUNY B140W to UB Edge workshops. Furthermore, I would recommend getting involved with professional and campus committees. It is good to get involved and network with other professionals on campus.

Do you have any hobbies? What do you do for fun?

I am the head Wrestling Coach at Starpoint Central School and have been there for six years. I actually have 11 years total high school wrestling coaching experience.

Do you have a favorite meal you like to prepare?

I would say that my favorite meal to prepare is tacos. Nothing beats a homemade taco.

If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?

I would like to go to Hawaii. That is on my bucket list.

Any other fun facts about you?

I have approximately 18 years of state service. I began my state career as a cleaner and worked my way up the proverbial “career ladder”. I utilized union benefits to obtain a BS and MS degree, which helped me advance my career to the professional side. I am involved with professional committees and always look to improve myself by taking a variety of professional development classes through UB Edge. Lastly, I would like to mention that my wife and I recently had our first child, a daughter named Dylan Rose Hart.