FM Employee Council update
November 13, 2025
Revamped council launching this fall
FM leadership recently shared updates regarding the launch and renewal of the FM Employee Council.
“We believe the council plays a vital role in supporting FM's values and mission, as well as the broader mission of the University. FM employees deserve to feel empowered, supported, and equipped with the tools to build trust and collaboration across our organization — and a strong employee council helps us achieve those goals,” write Vice President and Chief Facilities Officer Don Sundgren in an email to FM employees.
To better understand what adjustments could enhance the department's current council model, Engagement Programs Manager Emily Douglas gathered feedback from current council members and developed actionable suggestions. FM Directors were then asked to nominate team members who could best represent their departments and collaborate on improvements.
This fall, the nominated team members (listed below) will review the current state of the FM Employee Council and recommend adjustments based on the evolving needs of the organization.
CC&R:
- Patrick Connolly, Project Manager
- Joseph Foxwell, Sheet Metal Technician, Mechanical Trades
- Logan Kendle, Construction PM
- Danny Cryer, Architect, Design Services
Management Services:
- Francine Chambers, Snr Logistics Coordinator, P&I
- Hunter Howell, Snr Finance Generalist, Finance
Operations:
- Michael Pouliot, Custodial Mgr, Central Grounds Custodial Zone
- Jason Falls, Zone Maintenance Coord, McCormick Maintenance Zone
- Chris Ward, Grounds Maint Coord, Landscape
- Barry Wood, Zone Maintenance Coord, Housing Facilities
- Kevin Lawrence, Snr Elevator Mech, Elevator Shop
E&U:
- Ben McSweeney, Senior Mechanical Engineer, Utilities Mgmt
- Tyler Ott, Electrical Engineering Associate, Power & Light
Hospital Operations:
- Brian Wheeler, Senior Plumber, Zone 2
- Mike Kelley, Senior Electrician, Zone 1
“We look forward to sharing updates after their meetings. You can expect to hear from them directly as they engage with each area throughout this process. This is your employee council, and we believe this continuous improvement approach will strengthen our business, our role in the University's mission, and our work as a unified team,” according to Sundgren.
If you have any questions, email fm-engagement@virginia.edu or use the comment box on the FM Employee Council website.
Jane Centofante
Communications senior generalist
UVA Facilities Management
(434) 982-5846
janecentofante@virginia.edu