Secretary for Academic governance

Teresa Cuellar is the Secretary for Academic Governance at Michigan State University, where she works closely with faculty, students, and university leadership to support shared governance. In this role, she helps guide the work of university-level committees, ensures processes run smoothly and transparently, and fosters collaboration across MSU’s academic community.

Prior to joining MSU, Teresa held leadership roles in the Michigan Senate, including Director of Internal Affairs. She also brings extensive federal experience from her service in the offices of U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, where she managed scheduling, events, and constituent engagement. Her professional background further includes corporate operations experience with Amazon.

Teresa earned her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Social Science with a specialization in Chicano Latino Studies from Michigan State University. She is the recipient of MSU’s César Chávez Award and remains actively engaged with the university’s alumni and Latino communities.

Special Advisor to the Secretary for Academic governance

As the Special Advisor, Heidi facilitates a shared governance system that ensures faculty and students have a voice in academic decision-making and meaningful engagement in the university’s policy development process.

DEPUTY SECRETARY FOR ACADEMIC GOVERNANCE

Assistant to the Secretary for Academic Governance

Orville earned his bachelor's degrees in Political Science and Ethnic Studies from the University of Utah, followed by a master’s degree in Student Affairs Administration at Michigan State University.

With experience supporting and advocating for students from marginalized communities, Orville has served as a Multicultural Student Success Coordinator at the community college level and as a College Admissions Coach for the American Indian College Fund.

Orville aims to keep growing professionally and learn within various higher education contexts. He aspires to continue serving first-generation and underrepresented students and hopes to take on leadership roles as he continues his career as a scholar-practitioner.