Emily Callahan

Assistant Director, Learning and Performance, University Advancement

I began my career at CMU in 2022 and I assist with learning and performance within University Advancement, including people, processes, learning platforms, and the design, development and evaluation of learning programs. I do this by coordinating and delivering a variety of professional development opportunities on an annual basis, which includes working with both internal and external subject matter experts and vendors while ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for all participants. In addition, I partner with our Human Resources department to facilitate our new employee onboarding process to ensure managers and new hires are prepared for their first day, week, etc. I also serve as the United Way Campaign Team Captain and coordinate other events like Employee Appreciation Day for the University Advancement division.

During my term, I would like to see Staff Council continue to be a voice for staff concerns, ideas, and recommendations while also continuing to work towards expanding Take Your Child to Work Day. My role in University Advancement provides me with opportunities to work in tandem with a variety of colleagues on numerous occasions and projects, therefore, I can be a great resource and asset for bringing new ideas to the Staff Council table. In addition, I have some of the best memories from going to work with my mother for her “Take Your Child to Work Day” and would enjoy collaborating and organizing this experience for our CMU staff and their families.

My favorite quote is "Attitude is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, money, circumstances, than failures and success, than what other people think, say, or do. It is more important than appearance, ability, or skill. It will make or break a business, a home, a friendship, an organization. The remarkable thing is I have a choice every day of what my attitude will be. I cannot change my past. I cannot change the actions of others. I cannot change the inevitable. The only thing I can change is attitude. Life is ten percent what happens to me and ninety percent how I react to it.” -- Charles R. Swindoll