The Smith College Staff Council was initiated in 1991 by administrative and support staff concerned about the lack of communication among the staff and administration. Several Staff Council Conventions were held during the later part of 1991 and early 1992 to work out the mission and duties of the Staff Council. The charter was approved by the Board of Trustees at their May 2, 1992 meeting.

The mission of the Staff Council as stated in the charter is: "to give members of the administrative, administrative support, and service staff a focused and direct involvement in the governance of non-academic affairs and in the life of the Smith College community." The Staff Council works to enhance communication between employees and the College and examines policies that affect the workplace environment making recommendations to the College. It accomplishes this task through six standing committees: Steering, Nominations and Elections, Communication, Personnel Policy, Staff Development and Finance and Budget. In addition to committee work the Staff Council also publishes a newsletter, currently called The Council Chronicle, as its vehicle to keep staff informed of issues and events.