Hi everyone! These minutes are long (so was our meeting!), but there are some very interesting points in them!
Student Government Association
Senate Meeting Minutes for February 10, 2009
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
Call to Order President Lytle
Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
Approval of Minutes
Approved
Approval of Agenda
Approved
Community Announcements
Guest Speaker – Associate Vice President of Financial Affairs, Patrick Kirby
Auxiliary services is guided by the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO)
Services are provided almost 95% by what students buy
Things that happen in the economy grateful affects auxiliary services
Evolves over time
Made some choices and changes in 2006 about the direction of services
Diversity, variety, and choices are main focus
Auxiliary services "pays it’s own way"
Earn cost of inflation as reflected by CPI to break even, and then an additional CPI rate for profit
Business approach: listen to students and vendors, engineer a win-win approach, operate vendors on a profit & loss basis, share risk and reward, review best practices, benchmark, understand the economics
Auxiliary services pays a commission of 10%, which encourages them to listen to students
Doyle Hall will become offices and a psychology lab, also Doyle Café to resemble the coffee shop (not sure on specific details yet)
Overall have had positive response to coffee shop change to Texenza
New venues:
The Huddle, featuring burritos and tacos
M-TH 7:30am-12am
F 7:30am-10pm
S 11am-10pm
Hunt Café, featuring multiple stations – coffee bar/bakery with Starbucks coffee
Texas Book Company has committed to $275,000 renovation of the bookstore in summer 2009
A preliminary floor plan will be available in 1-2 weeks
New furniture for Jones Lobby coming around March 1
Renovated Ragsdale offices with new carpet and paint
Current dining situation:
Working with Bon Appetit for long term contact – they will be onsite February 9, 2009
Bon Appetit has contributed $1 million with the promise of an additional million for capital investment
Several non standing practices that we allow at SEU has limited dining revenue income:
Allowing students to remit meal plan dollars in the Meadows resulted in problematic for Bon Appetit. This practice is rare and typically not practices unless the venue is operated by the primary vendor.
The current practice of allowing students to continue to roll over meal plan dollars as long as they are enrolled is also a nonstandard practiced.
SEU has one of the lowest priced meal plans as compared to benchmark institutions
Increasing the price of meal plans for next year – highest will be $1,800 with average of 19 meals a week to buy
South Congress Market will be closed for evening meals once the new dining facilities open
Will be terminating meal plan roll over, but legacy meal plan holders have until June 30, 2010 to spend their money
Demand has to be sufficient enough to pay for the cost of operation
QUESTIONS:
What is considered a sufficient amount of people to extend hours?
Specific number not available
Could you talk more about the convenience store?
Called "Outtakes" and will be similar to a typical convenience store
Designed so that each new dining facility can be operated independent of each other
Possible movement of Auxiliary Services to Ragsdale – has a shift of the "hub" been considered?
Lose money everyday opening early in South Congress Market
Will the old furniture be available for students to purchase?
Haven’t considered that
E-mail patrickk@stedwards.edu with questions such as this
Career Planning Events:
Feb 14 10:30am – Interview Strategies
Feb 24 5:30pm – personal statement and CV workshop
Feb 25 5:30pm – internship workshop
Internship information available online
Counseling Center and Health Services opening, Feb 17 4:30-7pm
Dr. Crahan with the Kozmetsky would like to think SGA for all it’s help
If you missed some of the events, DVDs will be available
IT will do last server update over Spring Break
Officer Reports
President President Lytle
Remember that laptops are not allowed in Senate
If you sign-up for an event under SGA’s name, please show up
Cabinet Appointment – Krista Heiden for Chief of Staff
Will be promoted from former position of Associate Director
Approved
Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
IGA meetings have been very productive
Will be discussing School Election Senator Timeline
Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
Will be discussing S.R. 104 – Grotto Glorification
LI committee meetings are Wednesdays at 8PM
Student Representation Vice President Carroll
Moving away from Monthly Reports to a blog via Collegiate Link website
Log-in with your SEU username
Click on Student Government, then Discussions
You will see the committees you sit on – click on it and post
This needs to be updated once a month
Urgent information needs to be posted by 5pm on Mondays
SR meetings will be from 6:50-7:20PM on Tuesdays
Special Orders – Cross Country Letter
Has to be approved by 2/3
No discussion, just an up-or-down vote
Passes 20 to 0
Chair to entertain a motion to add all association members’ signatures if they so wish
If individuals do not wish to be on it, they may talk to Executive Senator Bencivengo after the meeting
Approved
Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
SGA social on Sunday was a success
Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
Class meeting on Thursday to finalize social
Approval of Senator Marcos Soto
Approved
Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
Approval of Senator Nathan Neighbors
Approved
Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
Nothing new at this time
Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
Approval of Humanities Senator Kelly O’Donnel
Approved
Approval of Behavioral & Social Sciences Senator Lee Fitzgerald
Approved
Cabinet Report
Director of Public Relations
Ordered some cozies for BIG Event
Working on work order to move the comment boxes
Remember to pay for your polo
Director of Association Events
SGA Alumni Event at Homecoming – send ideas to cwhite6@stedwards.edu
Director of Finance
Leave receipts in his box
Nothing should be purchased with tax
Director of Member Development and Training
Big Topper/Little Topper event on Sunday at 5pm – Wii Tournament and Board-games
Director of Service
Picking up sponsors for BIG Event
Director of Involvement
T-shirts coming in soon
Getting participants for SoCo decoration event
Chief of Staff
Nothing new to report
Unfinished Business
S.R. 101 – Topper Tender Transfers (Final Passage)
Have spoken with Patrick Kirby extensively and successfully got approval
New convenient store will accept meal plans
DISCUSSION:
None at this time
***Motion to roll call vote
Passes 27 to 0
S.B. 05 – CFL Rebate (Final Passage)
Rebate option won’t work here, because too many options
Instead, SGA will buy them and sell them at a reduced cost
1 pack of 14 watt for $1.00 incurring a cost of $0.73
1 pack of 18 watt for $2.00 incurring a cost of $0.47
DICUSSION:
Was original cost more than $400?
No, it has not changed
What will be the exact method of selling them?
Hoping to start the sale next week and have it last 3 weeks
Not sure how responsive people will be
Hoping to have sale in bottom floor of Ragsdale
Working with PR to announce this
Cards on clips outside apartments is counter-intuitive to our green initiatives
Working to remedy situation with Physical Plant
Have already worked out the conversion of wattage and light
Size is the same as a normal 75 watt incandescent bulb
Lifetime is 5-11 times longer than an incandescent bulb
Save about $5 for each replaced bulb
Amount actually spent would be $115.20 once they are sold
***Motion to roll call vote
Passes 27 to 0
S.B. 07 – Concerning Presidential Term Limits (Final Passage)
2 term limit with a term being defined as a full academic year
DISCUSSION:
Friendly Amendment by Senator Dains to change "of served" to "not of served"
Accepted
If the student body thinks that 2 terms have been good, why couldn’t the president run a 3rd time?
Align with the national government
Term limits are general good
Does not mean he/she couldn’t be involved in another capacity
***Motion to roll call vote
Passes 19 to 5
S.B. 08 – Selection of Executive Senators (Final Passage)
Leadership should be picked by those who can best judge
DISCUSSION:
Method was used by the Schools to choose their Executive
Disagreement and feel that the students should be able to choose
Is it fair to reject someone who was voted in over someone who showed more interest?
In favor of better educating voters
Isn’t taking away ability to vote in senators, students still do that
Emphasis should be on being effective leaders by compromising
Concern with how this affects freshmen class, as they may not always know each other that well beforehand
Currently there is no separate box to choose Executive Senators on the ballot, so students essential have no control anyway
Executive Senators have resigned several times, because they didn’t want to responsibility
Consistency between academic schools and classes
Friendly Amendment by VP Cromack to have the selection process moderated by the President
What about the Elections Committee? Or the Chair of it?
Yes, the Chair
Accepted
***Motion to roll call vote
Passes 16 to 8
New Business
S.B. 12 – Concerning Presidential and Vice Presidential Candidate Qualifications
10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
Feel that requirements are important in giving candidates necessary experience, for example with parliamentary procedure
If anybody is allowed to run, it might limit competency towards the job – VP jobs require a vast amount of knowledge
These positions offer scholarship and concerned with people running simply to get them
It is a tremendous commitment to be a VP and President – those within the association know this better than those outside – don’t feel a year is that long to serve before being allowed to run
Just because someone doesn’t have the experience, it doesn’t mean they aren’t competent – need to branch out
If someone is incompetent, it should come out in the campaign
Sometimes when new leaders come in, the foundation can fall out of the bottom of an organization if they aren’t prepared
Important to learn lessons from the past by being in the organization before running
Good idea to research what other schools and organizations do
Find middle ground between no limits and strict limits
Concern with the overall image of Student Life being click-ish
***Motion to send to IGA
Division called
Passes 18 to 9
Gallery Comments
SGA will be taking a "Read" picture, so everyone needs to bring a book
Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
Upcoming Events:
2/9-2/13: 11am-2pm: "I’ve Got a Crush on You" by Hispanic Student Association
2/9-2/13: 11am-2pm: Kiss n Rose by Ballet Folklorico
2/11-4/29: 9pm: Spring FCA Meetings TBA by FCA
2/13: 11am-2pm: Valentine’s Bake Sale by Communication Society
2/10-2/24: Posada Esperanza Donation Drive by Hilltop Leaders
2/12: 10:30am-12:45pm: Lunar New Year Bake Sale by Asian American Association
2/14 : 7pm-11pm: Fundraiser for Student Scholarships by Alpha Sigma Lambda
2/15: 1pm-3pm: Valentine’s Dance by Best Buddies
2/16: 7pm: Whole foods dinner meet up by Hilltop Herbivores
2/16: 5:30pm-6:30pm: Conscious Heart Integration by Student Society for the Masters of Arts in Counseling
HillRaisers are selling Candy Grams this week
Student Life is working on a marketing initiative – would like input with "carewords" exercise
Will come to Senate early next week at 7pm to explain Collegiate Link
Final Comments
XIII. Roll Call & Adjournment
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Cabinet members approved!
Two new members to cabinet were approved at the Senate Meeting 1/29/09.
The new Director of Finance is Jaime Villareal. The new Director of Association Events is Colleen Malloy White.
We are excited to begin work with these new members!
The new Director of Finance is Jaime Villareal. The new Director of Association Events is Colleen Malloy White.
We are excited to begin work with these new members!
Senate meeting minutes 1/27/09
Here are the minutes from our meeting last night. Debbie Taylor spoke and answered questions considering the Cross Country Team. 4 pieces of legislation discussed.
Student Government Association
Senate Meeting Minutes for January 27, 2009
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not meant to be a direct transcript. Information may not have been recorded exactly as the speaker intended.
v Guest Speaker – Athletic Director, Debora Taylor (20 minute discussion)
o Background information:
o SEU is a founding member of the Heartland Conference
v 2 members left in 2003 to join Great Lakes Valley Conference
o The conference is very spread out
o There were no new members to replace the 2 members that left
o Advantages to being a member: voting rights on the NCAA Floor, Revenue Rights, and allows students to have opportunity to advance to post-season play
o Must maintain 5 men’s and 5 women’s OR 4 men’s and 6 women’s sports
o Must have 6 institutions sponsoring a sport
o When the 2 members left, the easiest remedy was to add Cross Country
v St. Mary’s and Lincoln were approached to take this option, but were unable
v Therefore, SEU took on the option of creating a Cross Country team to maintain the Heartland Conference
o The CC program is not at a quality level to maintain, the quality of the experience is not the same as the other athletic programs
o Questions:
o What other options were considered instead of disbanding?
v The reason for making the decision was that Athletic Department couldn't provide the goals and objectives in the Athletic Handbook
v Dir. Taylor is confident that Athletics did everything it could to keep CC on board and maintained the team probably longer than was feasible
v Do not have the infrastructure necessary
o What long-terms goals for the CC team?
v Same as for everyone program, to as possible add the resources
o What could have been done previous to stabilize the program?
v The decision was made under a forced hand to maintain the conference, normally would have had a year to two to plan for a new sport and that opportunity was not there
o What does a lack of infrastructure and quality mean?
v Lack of day-to-day support, the necessary funds were not there and not planned for, coaches did not have the level of expertise
v It is not about what the students have or haven’t done, it’s the university’s failings
o Student athletes on the Cross Country team are concerned with the air of secrecy and being stuck at a school where they cannot run and without the option to transfer to another school
o Also concerned about the lack of straight answers and that an unqualified coach was hired to be in charge of the team over more qualified individuals
o ***Motion to EXTEND DISCUSSION ANOTHER 10 MINUTES
v Approved
o Decision was made during the week of finals of the Fall 2008 semester, and it was felt that it was in the best interest of the students involved not to hear the information during this time, as well as it was inappropriate to send a letter, but better to inform students face-to-face
o Qualified and experienced coaches at a collegiate level are looking for schools with a comprehensive program and SEU was not able to offer that to possible candidates
o Why were teams not given the chance to help out with fundraising?
v Teams were allowed to sign-up for a phone-a-thon in the fall and the Cross Country team did not show up on their assigned day
o Students are concerned with the fact that there was misleading information regarding the possibility of the decision being reversed, i.e. false hope
o Did Athletics ever consider disbanding earlier?
v Truly believed that SEU could develop a sufficient Cross Country team when it was created for the Heartland Conference
v Wanted to have a full-time coach who can adequately devote time and better resources to make the Cross Country experience a good one
o Concern that CC team members are paying the price for poor planning on the part of the Athletic Department
v The plans that Athletics had simply did not come to fruition, this was a very difficulty decision to make
v Did not want to bring more students into an inadequate program next year
v Working to put together a running club and maintaining student athletes’ scholarships
o Were there other options considered to help with funding? As in sharing the costs with student members, calling parents, etc.
v It has continuously been evaluated and a program cannot be full supported on fundraising, as it may not be available every year
o Is it possible that the CC team could be brought back if the university had time to better plan, as the school continues to grow?
v Club sports is the best place to serve the interest of students
o All athletic programs are evaluated year-to-year and the department truly believed they could
o ***Motion for a 5-minute adjournment
v Approved
o The first issue of the Hilltop Views will be out tomorrow!
o Kozmetsky Center will be hosting UPDATE: Europe on February 9
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v In future meetings, we will be having Dr. Crahan and Patrick Kirby coming to speak
v Thank you to members of the association for professional conduct during Ms. Taylor’s discussion
v The spring poster sale has done much better than expected, so this is great news for the secondary account – 15% of the total sales goes to SGA
v Please remember to sign-up for a call center shift – this is important, because it gives us the option to use it in the future to fund raise
v Would like to recognize Senators Kurtzweil and Simons on their outstanding work and going above-and-beyond
v Cabinet Appointments:
§ Director of Finance: Jaime Villareal
i. Approved
§ Director of Association Events: Colleen Malloy White
i. Approved
o Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
v Thanks to all those IGA members who have been writing legislation
v If you want to make changes to the Election Manual, please turn them in by next week
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
o Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
v If you have legislation in LI, please show up or send a co-author or co-sponsor to the meeting – this is very important, because LI is assigned dates for authorization in the next meeting
v LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
o Student Representation Vice President Carroll
v This is the last chance to sign-up for university committees
v Assignments will be posted by Monday on the door of the office
v No SR meeting this week – go to the call center instead!
v SR members (any returning or anyone who cannot be on IGA or LI), please meet after this meeting to discuss a new meeting time for the semester
o Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
v Senior Class Toast tomorrow from 6-8PM in Mabee C – 21 and over/seniors!
v They will be giving out information for seniors graduating May-December
o Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
v The applications to fill vacancy is Friday at 5PM
v Class meeting next week to determine class social
v CFL Light Bulbs legislation will be coming up for authorization, contact Bryce if you want to discuss it
o Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
v Working on filling the senator vacancy – application deadline will by Friday at 5PM
v Senator Dains has come up with an idea for Sophomore Speed Dating as a social
o Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Working on social ideas
o Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
v There are also still vacancies in Behavioral and Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, and New College – would like to fill by mid-February
v Meeting this Friday
v Decided on a BBQ-style social, not sure on the date yet
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Polos did not come in today, as hoped, but you can still go ahead and pay for yours
v Ginny met with Debbie Taylor and one of the comment boxes will be moved into the RCC
v Been working on a logo for the Homecoming Committee
o Director of Association Events
v No reports at this time
o Director of Finance
v No reports at this time
o Director of Member Development and Training
v Working on a line-item budget for Big Topper/Little Topper, but need help with ideas for activities
v Will be sending out an e-mail to get feedback on this program
o Director of Service
v President’s National Honor Roll of Community Service survey is being passed around – please fill out with your information
o At lot of schools gets judged by the amount of service hours done
o Director of Involvement
v Working on t-shirts for Homecoming
v Aggressive ad campaign planned to get teams to participate
o Chief of Staff
v Birthday celebration – get some cookie cake!
v Regretfully resigning as Chief of Staff due to an opportunity at a great internship and approaching graduation
v Very happy with all the work the Cabinet has done this year
VIII. Unfinished Business
IX. New Business
o S.B. 07 – Concerning Presidential Term Limits
o Rationale is as of currently, there are no current provisions in the constitution
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o The reason for full academic year, if a President resigns and a VP must step up, the VP can serve as an elected President for full time
o Presumably the only way an individual can serve 2 years is if they are pursuing a 5th year
o Senator Armstrong would like to be added as a co-sponsor
o What is your reasoning? And what is this package of reforms that you are interested in passing?
§ Not in favor of passing omnibus legislation (definition=multiple pieces of legislation tagged into 1 bill)
§ Believe in incremental change
§ Would like to stream-line and better represent the Association
o Possibility of researching interest of Graduate and New College students
o ***Motion to send to IGA
o Approved with unanimous consent
o S.B. 08 – Selection of Executive Senators
o The point of this bill is to allow for more accurate representation within Senate
o Senators are better judges of who should and should not lead
o Currently it is a popularity-type contest
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Concern with the Date of Effect
§ It should stay as 2009-2010 and will apply to senators for next year
o Support of this from the Academic Schools, as this was how the Executive Senator was chosen
o Hesitation with how this applies to the freshmen, as they are brand new and no one will really know each other
o This bill also address the concern that Executive Senators did not necessarily sign-up for that tier of commitment, but put in the position simply because of getting the most votes
o Concern that following this train of thought would lead to presidents and VPs being voted in-house
o Consider how this situation would be remedied if the chosen Exec decided to step down
§ Assuming another meeting and a new vote would be taken
o ***Motion to send to IGA
§ Objection
§ Voice vote
§ I’s have it – sent to IGA
o S.B. 09 – Concerning Separation of Powers
o Want to clarify and prevent a trend that occurred, as the author is both a member of the executive branch and judiciary
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Feel that this isn’t entirely necessary, as the author has effectively filled both positions
o Clarification of the 3 branches:
§ Office of the President and Cabinet as executive branch
§ Executive Senators, even as members of the Executive Board, as part of the legislative branch
§ In the 2009-2010, this would take effect, so would not effective current members
o Concern that there really is no need to separate the powers, seeing as the two don’t really come into conflict or overlap
o The Elections Committee would be considered part of the judicial branch, as well and it is inappropriate for members of senate to serve on a ruling body of elections
o Executive Senator Duke caught a lot of flack for proposing a necessary bill to pay for traffic court needs
o There is a need to clearly define who is categorized within each branch
§ This would require an amendment to the Constitution and Bylaws
o Concern with the fact that the Association has a problem with member retention, and feel that this legislation may be discouraging
o ***Motion to send to IGA
§ Objection
§ Nay’s have it
§ Division called
§ Roll call vote
§ 13 to 11, motion passes to IGA
o S.B. 10 – SGA Bulletin Board Appropriations
o Idea is taken from the Texas House that has a Mon-Fri calendar outside of chambers showing who will be speaking and what issues will be tackled
o This has also been implemented by the Kozmetsky Center and the receipt of their purchase has been copied as an example of the cost
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Has an ideal place been thought of?
§ Would like to have it in Ragsdale
o Are there any plans to implement a internet-type service where we could share this same information?
§ Have been trying to do this for the past 2 years and Marketing has been very difficult in consenting to this request
o May be a better idea to put this board in the new residence hall/dining facility, as this may become the new central location
o This fits very well with one of our core goals for this year – visibility – and this is money being spent wisely
o There is a blog that has been created by the Director of Public Relations, where minutes have been posted
o Concern with investing in this when we have moved to be a more eco-friendly organization and students may have difficulty reading the agenda, i.e. understanding the format
§ Suggest implementing better recycling of our documents
o Would the author add a friendly amendment to add “all appropriations not used be returned to the secondary account”?
§ Accepted
o ***Motion to send to IGA
o Approved with unanimous consent
X. Gallery Comments
o We thank Whitney for her amazing service to SGA for 3 and ½ long years!!!
o Please remember to pay for your polos!
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o The call center is located in the Woodward Office building – please sign-up for a shift! Tom is buying pizza. All you need to do is one 30-minute shift
o Looking at the idea of having “Community Advisors” for student organizations, so that there would be multiple advisors and allow for better networking
o Collegiate Link system is ready to go – training begins on February 4 and advertising for the times will be going out soon
o Remember to accept your membership to the SGA page
o Orgs will be able to set-up profile pages, sort of like Facebook
o There will be a raffle associated with this
o Don’t forget that you can set-up meetings with Marisa if you have questions
XII. Final Comments
XIII. Roll Call & Adjournment
Student Government Association
Senate Meeting Minutes for January 27, 2009
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v PLEASE NOTE: These minutes are not meant to be a direct transcript. Information may not have been recorded exactly as the speaker intended.
v Guest Speaker – Athletic Director, Debora Taylor (20 minute discussion)
o Background information:
o SEU is a founding member of the Heartland Conference
v 2 members left in 2003 to join Great Lakes Valley Conference
o The conference is very spread out
o There were no new members to replace the 2 members that left
o Advantages to being a member: voting rights on the NCAA Floor, Revenue Rights, and allows students to have opportunity to advance to post-season play
o Must maintain 5 men’s and 5 women’s OR 4 men’s and 6 women’s sports
o Must have 6 institutions sponsoring a sport
o When the 2 members left, the easiest remedy was to add Cross Country
v St. Mary’s and Lincoln were approached to take this option, but were unable
v Therefore, SEU took on the option of creating a Cross Country team to maintain the Heartland Conference
o The CC program is not at a quality level to maintain, the quality of the experience is not the same as the other athletic programs
o Questions:
o What other options were considered instead of disbanding?
v The reason for making the decision was that Athletic Department couldn't provide the goals and objectives in the Athletic Handbook
v Dir. Taylor is confident that Athletics did everything it could to keep CC on board and maintained the team probably longer than was feasible
v Do not have the infrastructure necessary
o What long-terms goals for the CC team?
v Same as for everyone program, to as possible add the resources
o What could have been done previous to stabilize the program?
v The decision was made under a forced hand to maintain the conference, normally would have had a year to two to plan for a new sport and that opportunity was not there
o What does a lack of infrastructure and quality mean?
v Lack of day-to-day support, the necessary funds were not there and not planned for, coaches did not have the level of expertise
v It is not about what the students have or haven’t done, it’s the university’s failings
o Student athletes on the Cross Country team are concerned with the air of secrecy and being stuck at a school where they cannot run and without the option to transfer to another school
o Also concerned about the lack of straight answers and that an unqualified coach was hired to be in charge of the team over more qualified individuals
o ***Motion to EXTEND DISCUSSION ANOTHER 10 MINUTES
v Approved
o Decision was made during the week of finals of the Fall 2008 semester, and it was felt that it was in the best interest of the students involved not to hear the information during this time, as well as it was inappropriate to send a letter, but better to inform students face-to-face
o Qualified and experienced coaches at a collegiate level are looking for schools with a comprehensive program and SEU was not able to offer that to possible candidates
o Why were teams not given the chance to help out with fundraising?
v Teams were allowed to sign-up for a phone-a-thon in the fall and the Cross Country team did not show up on their assigned day
o Students are concerned with the fact that there was misleading information regarding the possibility of the decision being reversed, i.e. false hope
o Did Athletics ever consider disbanding earlier?
v Truly believed that SEU could develop a sufficient Cross Country team when it was created for the Heartland Conference
v Wanted to have a full-time coach who can adequately devote time and better resources to make the Cross Country experience a good one
o Concern that CC team members are paying the price for poor planning on the part of the Athletic Department
v The plans that Athletics had simply did not come to fruition, this was a very difficulty decision to make
v Did not want to bring more students into an inadequate program next year
v Working to put together a running club and maintaining student athletes’ scholarships
o Were there other options considered to help with funding? As in sharing the costs with student members, calling parents, etc.
v It has continuously been evaluated and a program cannot be full supported on fundraising, as it may not be available every year
o Is it possible that the CC team could be brought back if the university had time to better plan, as the school continues to grow?
v Club sports is the best place to serve the interest of students
o All athletic programs are evaluated year-to-year and the department truly believed they could
o ***Motion for a 5-minute adjournment
v Approved
o The first issue of the Hilltop Views will be out tomorrow!
o Kozmetsky Center will be hosting UPDATE: Europe on February 9
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v In future meetings, we will be having Dr. Crahan and Patrick Kirby coming to speak
v Thank you to members of the association for professional conduct during Ms. Taylor’s discussion
v The spring poster sale has done much better than expected, so this is great news for the secondary account – 15% of the total sales goes to SGA
v Please remember to sign-up for a call center shift – this is important, because it gives us the option to use it in the future to fund raise
v Would like to recognize Senators Kurtzweil and Simons on their outstanding work and going above-and-beyond
v Cabinet Appointments:
§ Director of Finance: Jaime Villareal
i. Approved
§ Director of Association Events: Colleen Malloy White
i. Approved
o Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
v Thanks to all those IGA members who have been writing legislation
v If you want to make changes to the Election Manual, please turn them in by next week
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
o Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
v If you have legislation in LI, please show up or send a co-author or co-sponsor to the meeting – this is very important, because LI is assigned dates for authorization in the next meeting
v LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
o Student Representation Vice President Carroll
v This is the last chance to sign-up for university committees
v Assignments will be posted by Monday on the door of the office
v No SR meeting this week – go to the call center instead!
v SR members (any returning or anyone who cannot be on IGA or LI), please meet after this meeting to discuss a new meeting time for the semester
o Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
v Senior Class Toast tomorrow from 6-8PM in Mabee C – 21 and over/seniors!
v They will be giving out information for seniors graduating May-December
o Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
v The applications to fill vacancy is Friday at 5PM
v Class meeting next week to determine class social
v CFL Light Bulbs legislation will be coming up for authorization, contact Bryce if you want to discuss it
o Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
v Working on filling the senator vacancy – application deadline will by Friday at 5PM
v Senator Dains has come up with an idea for Sophomore Speed Dating as a social
o Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Working on social ideas
o Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
v There are also still vacancies in Behavioral and Social Sciences, Humanities, Education, and New College – would like to fill by mid-February
v Meeting this Friday
v Decided on a BBQ-style social, not sure on the date yet
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Polos did not come in today, as hoped, but you can still go ahead and pay for yours
v Ginny met with Debbie Taylor and one of the comment boxes will be moved into the RCC
v Been working on a logo for the Homecoming Committee
o Director of Association Events
v No reports at this time
o Director of Finance
v No reports at this time
o Director of Member Development and Training
v Working on a line-item budget for Big Topper/Little Topper, but need help with ideas for activities
v Will be sending out an e-mail to get feedback on this program
o Director of Service
v President’s National Honor Roll of Community Service survey is being passed around – please fill out with your information
o At lot of schools gets judged by the amount of service hours done
o Director of Involvement
v Working on t-shirts for Homecoming
v Aggressive ad campaign planned to get teams to participate
o Chief of Staff
v Birthday celebration – get some cookie cake!
v Regretfully resigning as Chief of Staff due to an opportunity at a great internship and approaching graduation
v Very happy with all the work the Cabinet has done this year
VIII. Unfinished Business
IX. New Business
o S.B. 07 – Concerning Presidential Term Limits
o Rationale is as of currently, there are no current provisions in the constitution
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o The reason for full academic year, if a President resigns and a VP must step up, the VP can serve as an elected President for full time
o Presumably the only way an individual can serve 2 years is if they are pursuing a 5th year
o Senator Armstrong would like to be added as a co-sponsor
o What is your reasoning? And what is this package of reforms that you are interested in passing?
§ Not in favor of passing omnibus legislation (definition=multiple pieces of legislation tagged into 1 bill)
§ Believe in incremental change
§ Would like to stream-line and better represent the Association
o Possibility of researching interest of Graduate and New College students
o ***Motion to send to IGA
o Approved with unanimous consent
o S.B. 08 – Selection of Executive Senators
o The point of this bill is to allow for more accurate representation within Senate
o Senators are better judges of who should and should not lead
o Currently it is a popularity-type contest
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Concern with the Date of Effect
§ It should stay as 2009-2010 and will apply to senators for next year
o Support of this from the Academic Schools, as this was how the Executive Senator was chosen
o Hesitation with how this applies to the freshmen, as they are brand new and no one will really know each other
o This bill also address the concern that Executive Senators did not necessarily sign-up for that tier of commitment, but put in the position simply because of getting the most votes
o Concern that following this train of thought would lead to presidents and VPs being voted in-house
o Consider how this situation would be remedied if the chosen Exec decided to step down
§ Assuming another meeting and a new vote would be taken
o ***Motion to send to IGA
§ Objection
§ Voice vote
§ I’s have it – sent to IGA
o S.B. 09 – Concerning Separation of Powers
o Want to clarify and prevent a trend that occurred, as the author is both a member of the executive branch and judiciary
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Feel that this isn’t entirely necessary, as the author has effectively filled both positions
o Clarification of the 3 branches:
§ Office of the President and Cabinet as executive branch
§ Executive Senators, even as members of the Executive Board, as part of the legislative branch
§ In the 2009-2010, this would take effect, so would not effective current members
o Concern that there really is no need to separate the powers, seeing as the two don’t really come into conflict or overlap
o The Elections Committee would be considered part of the judicial branch, as well and it is inappropriate for members of senate to serve on a ruling body of elections
o Executive Senator Duke caught a lot of flack for proposing a necessary bill to pay for traffic court needs
o There is a need to clearly define who is categorized within each branch
§ This would require an amendment to the Constitution and Bylaws
o Concern with the fact that the Association has a problem with member retention, and feel that this legislation may be discouraging
o ***Motion to send to IGA
§ Objection
§ Nay’s have it
§ Division called
§ Roll call vote
§ 13 to 11, motion passes to IGA
o S.B. 10 – SGA Bulletin Board Appropriations
o Idea is taken from the Texas House that has a Mon-Fri calendar outside of chambers showing who will be speaking and what issues will be tackled
o This has also been implemented by the Kozmetsky Center and the receipt of their purchase has been copied as an example of the cost
o 10 MINUTE DISCUSSION:
o Has an ideal place been thought of?
§ Would like to have it in Ragsdale
o Are there any plans to implement a internet-type service where we could share this same information?
§ Have been trying to do this for the past 2 years and Marketing has been very difficult in consenting to this request
o May be a better idea to put this board in the new residence hall/dining facility, as this may become the new central location
o This fits very well with one of our core goals for this year – visibility – and this is money being spent wisely
o There is a blog that has been created by the Director of Public Relations, where minutes have been posted
o Concern with investing in this when we have moved to be a more eco-friendly organization and students may have difficulty reading the agenda, i.e. understanding the format
§ Suggest implementing better recycling of our documents
o Would the author add a friendly amendment to add “all appropriations not used be returned to the secondary account”?
§ Accepted
o ***Motion to send to IGA
o Approved with unanimous consent
X. Gallery Comments
o We thank Whitney for her amazing service to SGA for 3 and ½ long years!!!
o Please remember to pay for your polos!
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o The call center is located in the Woodward Office building – please sign-up for a shift! Tom is buying pizza. All you need to do is one 30-minute shift
o Looking at the idea of having “Community Advisors” for student organizations, so that there would be multiple advisors and allow for better networking
o Collegiate Link system is ready to go – training begins on February 4 and advertising for the times will be going out soon
o Remember to accept your membership to the SGA page
o Orgs will be able to set-up profile pages, sort of like Facebook
o There will be a raffle associated with this
o Don’t forget that you can set-up meetings with Marisa if you have questions
XII. Final Comments
XIII. Roll Call & Adjournment
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Senate Minutes 1/20
Student Government Association
Senate Meeting Minutes for January 20, 2009
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v Cross Country Team –Dan
o All members of the team were called into a special meeting last Thursday and notified that the team was being disbanded
o SEU will no longer have a CC team
o This was a complete surprise to the members
o Never received a straight answer for the reason
o This decision had been considered since early December
o Feel it is unjustified to cut the team out due to budget concerns
o Men’s CC were Conference Champions in fall 2006
o 94% of D2 schools have a CC team, SEU now joins the 6% that doesn’t
o The Incarnate Word CC team has a 5K race every year on their campus to raise funds for the year
o Scholarships – a number of teammates have them
v Informed initially that students would have to work an additional 12 hours on campus to continue receiving them
o Tomorrow, Dan will be meeting with Dr. Pacheco and Debbie Taylor at 8:30AM in an effort to get the team back
o Not sure who made the final decision on the cut
o Told that there was nothing they could do to work towards another option
o There are about 14 students on the team
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v Will be interviewing individuals for the Finance and Association Events Directors last this week
v Spring poster sale will be January 27 and 28
v Involvement Fair tomorrow from 11AM to 2PM – volunteers needed, so please sign up
v There is an updated budget being passed around – we stand at $17,746.68 with the secondary account
v Any questions on the budget, please director to Austin until the new director is appointed
v Up-to-date SGA files can now be found on each of the computers in the office
v Thanks to everyone who came to the State of the Campus, around 70-80 attendees total
o Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
v 4 new Associate Members to approve:
§ Reed Traphagan
· Approved
§ Veronica Adamcik
· Approved
§ Haley Hunter
· Approved
§ Daniel Lopez
· Approved
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
v Amendments to the Elections Manual can be introduced at IGA meetings
o Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
v If you have legislation in LI, please show up or send a co-author or co-sponsor to the meeting
v LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
o Student Representation Vice President Carroll
v Meeting next week, e-mail will be sent
v Look through the list of committees for the semester and sign up
§ Sheet will also be at the Involvement Fair tomorrow
v Please, fill out your schedule on the blank copies being passed around
v Possibility of moving to a blog-style committee report, details coming soon
v A lot of committees want students in general, not just SGA members so feel free to recommend and encourage your friends
o Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
v Not able to have the class social last semester, so it will be done this semester
o Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
v Senator Jeff Sveck’s resignation
v There is now an opening for a senator, accepting applications through January 30
v Working on social ideas and will need help from the senate
o Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
v Working on filling the senator vacancy
o Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Working on social ideas
o Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
v There are also still vacancies in Behavioral and Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education
v Leaning towards a BBQ style social
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Meeting with Debbie Taylor to approve location of Comment Box
v Still waiting for polos to be finished
v Working on Homecoming logo and marketing
v Mouse pads for the library are coming along
v Revamping the SGA brochure
o Director of Association Events
v VACANT
o Director of Finance
v VACANT
o Director of Member Development and Training
v Working on a line-item budget for Big Topper/Little Topper, but need help with ideas for activities
v Might be coming in late for some meetings due to a babysitting job this semester
o Director of Service
v Better World Book Drive went well last semester – 500 books!
o Thank you to Mimi for working so hard on this!
v BIG Event is this semester
o Still need committee members for this, particularly marketing
o Director of Involvement
v Homecoming meeting this Thursday at 8PM in Lucas
v Pep Rally will be in the RCC
v February 22 will the kickoff
o Chief of Staff
v Not preset at this time
VIII. Unfinished Business
IX. New Business
X. Gallery Comments
o Internet crash this weekend was a result of network servicing
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o May be a good idea to bring applications down to Involvement Fair
o Collegiate Link – please log in and ask to be a SGA member
o Trainings will start next week, 30-45 minute sessions
o SGA reunion at Homecoming Tailgate
o We have been asked to call all alumni of SGA
o We will reserve the telethon call center next week to do this sometime between 6-9PM
o A sign-up sheet will be e-mailed
o All marketing and things for Student E-News need to go through Marisa
o Student Org printing was cost Student Life $300 a month, so Orgs will now be charged and it only goes to the printer in the kitchen
XII. Final Comments
o Transfer Orientation went really well, thanks to those who helped
XIII. Roll Call & Adjournment
Senate Meeting Minutes for January 20, 2009
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v Cross Country Team –Dan
o All members of the team were called into a special meeting last Thursday and notified that the team was being disbanded
o SEU will no longer have a CC team
o This was a complete surprise to the members
o Never received a straight answer for the reason
o This decision had been considered since early December
o Feel it is unjustified to cut the team out due to budget concerns
o Men’s CC were Conference Champions in fall 2006
o 94% of D2 schools have a CC team, SEU now joins the 6% that doesn’t
o The Incarnate Word CC team has a 5K race every year on their campus to raise funds for the year
o Scholarships – a number of teammates have them
v Informed initially that students would have to work an additional 12 hours on campus to continue receiving them
o Tomorrow, Dan will be meeting with Dr. Pacheco and Debbie Taylor at 8:30AM in an effort to get the team back
o Not sure who made the final decision on the cut
o Told that there was nothing they could do to work towards another option
o There are about 14 students on the team
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v Will be interviewing individuals for the Finance and Association Events Directors last this week
v Spring poster sale will be January 27 and 28
v Involvement Fair tomorrow from 11AM to 2PM – volunteers needed, so please sign up
v There is an updated budget being passed around – we stand at $17,746.68 with the secondary account
v Any questions on the budget, please director to Austin until the new director is appointed
v Up-to-date SGA files can now be found on each of the computers in the office
v Thanks to everyone who came to the State of the Campus, around 70-80 attendees total
o Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
v 4 new Associate Members to approve:
§ Reed Traphagan
· Approved
§ Veronica Adamcik
· Approved
§ Haley Hunter
· Approved
§ Daniel Lopez
· Approved
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
v Amendments to the Elections Manual can be introduced at IGA meetings
o Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
v If you have legislation in LI, please show up or send a co-author or co-sponsor to the meeting
v LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
o Student Representation Vice President Carroll
v Meeting next week, e-mail will be sent
v Look through the list of committees for the semester and sign up
§ Sheet will also be at the Involvement Fair tomorrow
v Please, fill out your schedule on the blank copies being passed around
v Possibility of moving to a blog-style committee report, details coming soon
v A lot of committees want students in general, not just SGA members so feel free to recommend and encourage your friends
o Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
v Not able to have the class social last semester, so it will be done this semester
o Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
v Senator Jeff Sveck’s resignation
v There is now an opening for a senator, accepting applications through January 30
v Working on social ideas and will need help from the senate
o Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
v Working on filling the senator vacancy
o Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Working on social ideas
o Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
v There are also still vacancies in Behavioral and Social Sciences, Humanities, and Education
v Leaning towards a BBQ style social
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Meeting with Debbie Taylor to approve location of Comment Box
v Still waiting for polos to be finished
v Working on Homecoming logo and marketing
v Mouse pads for the library are coming along
v Revamping the SGA brochure
o Director of Association Events
v VACANT
o Director of Finance
v VACANT
o Director of Member Development and Training
v Working on a line-item budget for Big Topper/Little Topper, but need help with ideas for activities
v Might be coming in late for some meetings due to a babysitting job this semester
o Director of Service
v Better World Book Drive went well last semester – 500 books!
o Thank you to Mimi for working so hard on this!
v BIG Event is this semester
o Still need committee members for this, particularly marketing
o Director of Involvement
v Homecoming meeting this Thursday at 8PM in Lucas
v Pep Rally will be in the RCC
v February 22 will the kickoff
o Chief of Staff
v Not preset at this time
VIII. Unfinished Business
IX. New Business
X. Gallery Comments
o Internet crash this weekend was a result of network servicing
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o May be a good idea to bring applications down to Involvement Fair
o Collegiate Link – please log in and ask to be a SGA member
o Trainings will start next week, 30-45 minute sessions
o SGA reunion at Homecoming Tailgate
o We have been asked to call all alumni of SGA
o We will reserve the telethon call center next week to do this sometime between 6-9PM
o A sign-up sheet will be e-mailed
o All marketing and things for Student E-News need to go through Marisa
o Student Org printing was cost Student Life $300 a month, so Orgs will now be charged and it only goes to the printer in the kitchen
XII. Final Comments
o Transfer Orientation went really well, thanks to those who helped
XIII. Roll Call & Adjournment
Austin Lytle's State of the Campus Address
The Student Government Association
Student State of the Campus
Thursday January 15, 2009
Mabee ballrooms B&C
5:00 PM
Good evening, students, faculty, staff, members of the Student Government Association and St. Edward’s Community. It is with great pride that I report to you the state of the campus is optimistic and prepared for the future!
Our positive campus environment exists in a world where it seems everyday a news source gives us more reasons to not be hopeful about the future. Yet St. Edward’s shines like a beacon on the hilltop allowing everyone to see that something good is occurring here.
Assisting in this process are the men and women of the Student Government Association. And it is in this organization that I have the privilege of being the President. My name is Austin Lytle. Senior and political science major and as the student body president it is my duty to report on the state of the campus.
Across this campus there is a great emotion, students are realizing that the world as we knew it when we first entered into these buildings has changed. The challenges we are facing are unprecedented in nature. More than ever students are making more personal and financial sacrifices. The coming months will prove to be difficult. Yet we will endure. The question we are all facing, will there be a job for me when I leave? Is not easy to answer.
But, what I can say is that you have all received a unique education, which has given you skills to use in whatever area you choose to enter, a type of unique education that will set you apart from the many other students asking themselves that same question. The St. Edward’s campus has a prevailing feeling of optimism and we must maintain this.
But what is unique that gives us reason to be optimistic?
This is a question that evokes a different response for every student in the room. Some will say it is because of our class size, surely it is a blessing to have small class. Some say we are unique because our professors make it their personal missions to create an academically rigorous and supportive environment, of course this is true. and many say we are unique because our education is one rich in the Holy Cross Traditions of educating young minds and hearts, naturally this is true. But I also say we are unique by the type of students that enter these hallways everyday. The 5,317 St. Edward’s students are each a unique reason that makes St. Edward's University great. Students that everyday live out the mission and intention of our founding father Basil Moreau.
Student success drives what we do here at St. Edward’s and our lives will be better because of our choice to be educated here.
Also making St. Edward's University unique are the events that occur throughout the academic year here. Anything from bizarre magic shows in Jones Auditorium to political panels following the national election that brought high profile politicians to campus in order to share their thoughts on what the outcome holds for the world.
One great event that drew international attention was “update the world” Initiated by the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance. This program was different than past events in that it brought twelve leading experts to campus all at one time. The experts provided updates on several hot topic issues concerning the world. In addition to over 75 classroom presentations, the group of experts made efforts to meeting students personally in order to share their knowledge. I am proud of the work the Kozmetsky Center has accomplished; it is events like these that also makes going to St. Edward’s unique.
A highlight of last semester were certainly the many events that surrounded the Presidential Election. One event that tied St. Edward’s with this national event was when Journalist Bob Schieffer, host of CBS’s Face the Nation and moderator of the third Presidential Debate paid a visit. It was a true honor and a privilege for all those who were able to attend that event.
Many SEU students were also on the front lines for all parties. From student James Armstrong who attended the Republican National Convention to Katy Johnson who traveled the country for President-elect Obama’s campaign, St. Edward students provided many reasons throughout campaign season to be proud of the school we attend.
I would also like to congratulate the students of St. Edward's University. Too often stories of political terrorism and disruptive actions were reported on many campuses throughout the United States. Yet our Students did not allow political identity to get the best of us. We should be proud for keeping our campus a safe environment were any political identity can be expressed without the fear of being harassed.
The Mary Moody Northen Theater has put on several events that should promote pride. Within the last semester they have received 17 award nominations making the total nominations for awards in the last two years at over 40. Congratulations to our amazing theatre students and faculty who keep brining in such high accolades. I encourage all students to attend upcoming shows this semester.
This coming semester promises many more exciting events that are note worthy. I am proud to make the first official announcement for the May commencement speaker. St. Edward’s graduates and their families will have the honor of hearing from Judge Thomas Burgenthal. A familiar name to many in the international community, he is the American judge on the 15 member International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court. Judge Burgenthal has been a member of the Court since 2000 and is also a member of the ethics committee for the international Olympics.
Our St. Edward’s Athletic program has given us many reasons to be proud to be a Hilltopper. Besides the Men’s basketball team who is off to a winning record and playing St. Mary’s tonight, within the last year over 82 St. Edward’s athletes have received NCAA division two or heartland conference awards for varying degrees of accomplishment. Including Angela Vorpahl who besides being an all-star member of the Volleyball team, earned the Valedictorian in last May’s commencement.
Athletes like All- American David Fuentes, who is a member of the St. Edward’s cross country team and a senior is another prime example. Fuentes represented St. Edward’s well by winning three-straight Heartland Conference Runner of the Year awards, three appearances in the NCAA Regional’s, and two appearances in the NCAA National Championship. In addition he is the first St. Edward’s Cross Country runner selected to be an All-American. Fuentes and Vorphol are just two examples of the wonderful legacy of success this campus can produce.
This year also marks the 35th anniversary of Women’s athletics here at St. Edward's University. In the coming weeks there will be several events celebrating this. It is hard to imagine a time when this campus was without all of the great female athletes who have done so well in their respective sports and I look forward to many more successful years.
The Student body is showing their pride as more students are attending games. Currently the average men’s basketball attendance is 487, which is 61 more students per game than last season. A true testament to the hard work of the student athletes, as well as the spirit organization the Hillraisers.
The St. Edward's University campus has seen many changes recently. New buildings and new faces are everywhere. Student Life recently added four assistant directors to handle the great responsibility of working with students, student organizations and initiatives around campus. St. Edward’s hired a new Police Chief, in Chief Randy Rendon; as well as several new officers. The campus also hired top notch administrators including Rhonda Cartwright, Vice President of Financial Affairs and Robert Manzer, to the new Vice President of academic affairs.
Moving outside of Personnel acquisitions, The physical landscape is changing. St. Edward’s is currently in talks with the city of Austin for a multi-million dollar deal to enhance the front of the campus along Congress, making our front entrance more beautiful and noticeable in the process. New Campus buildings and renovated one’s have also made their mark. Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel recently received a brand new exterior, windows and fresh coat of paint. The Recreation and Convocation center recently received a brand new welcoming entrance; Sorin hall is currently undergoing major renovations to make our experience their a better and safer one and construction has begun on the new home for the behavioral and social sciences, additional office space and classrooms that will replace the legacy hall of Doyle.
Of course, the most high-profile building is coming on-line. The New Residence village, which is now the largest building on campus, has students already moved in. Student Government Association members recently went on a tour of the new community and found it to indeed be the unique building we were promised. While construction on the building is not complete the new dining facility is planned to be opened on Saturday, February 14th. And the Grand opening for the Hunt, LeMans and Lady Bird Johnson halls will be Tuesday, February 17th following President Martin’s meeting.
Truly this new building presents many challenges to a growing campus, but it should be looked at with great opportunity.
Other campus facilities also saw some changes. The University Bookstore’s management changed hands. After completing an exhaustive search and bid process the Texas Book company was awarded the opportunity to operate the campus store. The Texas book company has major plans for the former natatorium, which has taken many forms over the last several decades.
Across the breezeway in the meadow’s coffee shop has undergone the third name change in as many years, to the locally owned Texenza. What is important to keep in mind throughout all of these many changes is that students were included in many of the initial discussions at unprecedented numbers. Yet, there is still much more that can be done. I urge that moving forward any significant change’s that will impact students must have student input. Our student’s posses skills that should be utilized. Projects and initiatives must have students involved. If we are to maintain this positive campus that I know exists, Students should be the first on administrators minds.
In trying to meet the new demands our larger campus has, the Student Government Association expanded many areas and has evolved to make a better organization for the students. I am proud to say that our entrance into academic school representation has gone well. The Student Government Association made a commitment to the belief that students have a need to be represented in their areas of academia. Therefore we eliminated several “traditional seats”, those reserved for class based representation and added two seats per academic school. The School representative elections coincided with the freshmen elections and drew a sizable amount of interest. Not surprisingly the behavioral and social Science seat alone saw five students running for two spots. As the School representatives continue meeting with their deans and listening to their respective student constituency, I am confident that these positions will continue to foster interest from those within certain majors and continue expanding, therefore bringing the much needed academic diversity to the association.
In addition to this change, the Student Government Association made a commitment to expand the area of Student Representation dramatically. Under the Direction of Vice President Bethany Carroll, the Student Representation committee has grown from two members to nine and taken on the very important role of placing students in the various campus committee’s, acting as the eyes and ears for Student Government and the student body. This committee provides an important loop that allows the student representatives within the committee to report back on those committees and in turn allow for Student Government to provide feedback. Last semester alone saw students being placed on over 35 university committees. Some include the Academic Council, Campus Safety & Police Affairs Committee, the City of Austin Mayor’s Council on Student Affairs and the Presidential Environmental Signing Committee.
In an ongoing effort with the University Police Department and the office of Student Affairs the Student Parking and Traffic Court has had a wonderful start to its second year. This year has seen a substantial increase in campus recognition and the court’s docket is on task to exceed over 200 cases by the end of the semester. A great thanks needs to be extended to the Justices and the support staff of the court.
Legislation has recently flooded the Senate chambers. These pieces of legislation range from making daily life here at St. Edward’s easier to issues that require advanced amount of research. Whatever the size and scope of the issue, let it be known that Student Government must pursue action. There is no issue too small or too expansive for us to handle.
There are many Senators working hard on legislation. I would like to highlight a few of them. Junior Executive Senator Bryce Bencivengo’s Athletic Banners resolution has demonstrated an effort to expand our athletic spirit. To increase awareness and bolster pride in the excellence of the St. Edward’s athletic community the Athletic Banners resolution proposes improving and updating the awards banners displayed in the Recreation and Convocation Center.
SGA is also currently researching the Reinstatement of the Pass/No Pass option that proposes at the very least Grandfathering in the new policy regarding Science in Perspective courses. There are several resolutions concerning the beautification and safety of our campus that aims to make our tenure here better. And of course the issue that is at the forefront of every student’s minds: tuition. This common concern has been addressed in Senate by Executive Academic School Senator Christopher Duke in his resolution S.E.U. A.C.T. N.O.W. This resolution is meant to provide research on possible alternatives to the current raises in tuition.
Going forward your Student Government Association will continue evolving under amazing student leadership in order to make the student experience here better. There are many issues around campus that are still left to be solved. Such as what to do with Capstone, how to make our campus more environmentally friendly, is plus/minus grading acceptable, and how will our campus move forward in the next five years? You as a Student have a responsibility to use your VOICE and let us know what we can do for you.
We are an organization that prides itself by being the body who looks out for student concerns and works with all areas of campus to ensure the highest quality of educational experience available. The Student Government Association members have spent countless hours and sacrificed many evenings either in meetings, working on legislation, or any other duty being a member of SGA requires. And should be proud.
In conclusion I want to thank all of you for taking time out from your busy first week to come here. I myself am missing class right now.
What I want you to take away from here is a few points. This campus is thriving. While other campuses are facing much harder economic times, our University has positioned itself well for the coming months. But that does not mean that sacrifices are not going to have to be made. We are certainly not immune from this turbulent time, but we are somewhat protected. Troubled roads are ahead and expectations are certainly not high.
Yet this campus is still optimistic. The Holy Cross traditions are still alive and fostering to the mission of the university. And that translates into an education that is meaningful. I assure you that every faculty and staff members here truly does want you to succeed.
And this campus is also prepared, prepared for the future because the students here are some of the best around. We are also a very young campus. Out of the 3,397 undergraduate students nearly 1,170 are classified as freshmen. So I have this to say to you freshmen and everyone else who attends. It is not too late to get involved. There are many opportunities around campus and Austin that are worth your time. Take advantage of every service there is to offer. Make the most out every moment you have. Remain optimistic that we will get through these tough times.
And always remember that you should never be afraid of the things you cannot control, but always afraid of things you can control and do not. For that is the reason you are on this campus, to control your future and change the world. I wish nothing but the best, and on behalf of the student Government Association have a great semester. Thank you and God bless.
Student State of the Campus
Thursday January 15, 2009
Mabee ballrooms B&C
5:00 PM
Good evening, students, faculty, staff, members of the Student Government Association and St. Edward’s Community. It is with great pride that I report to you the state of the campus is optimistic and prepared for the future!
Our positive campus environment exists in a world where it seems everyday a news source gives us more reasons to not be hopeful about the future. Yet St. Edward’s shines like a beacon on the hilltop allowing everyone to see that something good is occurring here.
Assisting in this process are the men and women of the Student Government Association. And it is in this organization that I have the privilege of being the President. My name is Austin Lytle. Senior and political science major and as the student body president it is my duty to report on the state of the campus.
Across this campus there is a great emotion, students are realizing that the world as we knew it when we first entered into these buildings has changed. The challenges we are facing are unprecedented in nature. More than ever students are making more personal and financial sacrifices. The coming months will prove to be difficult. Yet we will endure. The question we are all facing, will there be a job for me when I leave? Is not easy to answer.
But, what I can say is that you have all received a unique education, which has given you skills to use in whatever area you choose to enter, a type of unique education that will set you apart from the many other students asking themselves that same question. The St. Edward’s campus has a prevailing feeling of optimism and we must maintain this.
But what is unique that gives us reason to be optimistic?
This is a question that evokes a different response for every student in the room. Some will say it is because of our class size, surely it is a blessing to have small class. Some say we are unique because our professors make it their personal missions to create an academically rigorous and supportive environment, of course this is true. and many say we are unique because our education is one rich in the Holy Cross Traditions of educating young minds and hearts, naturally this is true. But I also say we are unique by the type of students that enter these hallways everyday. The 5,317 St. Edward’s students are each a unique reason that makes St. Edward's University great. Students that everyday live out the mission and intention of our founding father Basil Moreau.
Student success drives what we do here at St. Edward’s and our lives will be better because of our choice to be educated here.
Also making St. Edward's University unique are the events that occur throughout the academic year here. Anything from bizarre magic shows in Jones Auditorium to political panels following the national election that brought high profile politicians to campus in order to share their thoughts on what the outcome holds for the world.
One great event that drew international attention was “update the world” Initiated by the Kozmetsky Center of Excellence in Global Finance. This program was different than past events in that it brought twelve leading experts to campus all at one time. The experts provided updates on several hot topic issues concerning the world. In addition to over 75 classroom presentations, the group of experts made efforts to meeting students personally in order to share their knowledge. I am proud of the work the Kozmetsky Center has accomplished; it is events like these that also makes going to St. Edward’s unique.
A highlight of last semester were certainly the many events that surrounded the Presidential Election. One event that tied St. Edward’s with this national event was when Journalist Bob Schieffer, host of CBS’s Face the Nation and moderator of the third Presidential Debate paid a visit. It was a true honor and a privilege for all those who were able to attend that event.
Many SEU students were also on the front lines for all parties. From student James Armstrong who attended the Republican National Convention to Katy Johnson who traveled the country for President-elect Obama’s campaign, St. Edward students provided many reasons throughout campaign season to be proud of the school we attend.
I would also like to congratulate the students of St. Edward's University. Too often stories of political terrorism and disruptive actions were reported on many campuses throughout the United States. Yet our Students did not allow political identity to get the best of us. We should be proud for keeping our campus a safe environment were any political identity can be expressed without the fear of being harassed.
The Mary Moody Northen Theater has put on several events that should promote pride. Within the last semester they have received 17 award nominations making the total nominations for awards in the last two years at over 40. Congratulations to our amazing theatre students and faculty who keep brining in such high accolades. I encourage all students to attend upcoming shows this semester.
This coming semester promises many more exciting events that are note worthy. I am proud to make the first official announcement for the May commencement speaker. St. Edward’s graduates and their families will have the honor of hearing from Judge Thomas Burgenthal. A familiar name to many in the international community, he is the American judge on the 15 member International Court of Justice, also known as the World Court. Judge Burgenthal has been a member of the Court since 2000 and is also a member of the ethics committee for the international Olympics.
Our St. Edward’s Athletic program has given us many reasons to be proud to be a Hilltopper. Besides the Men’s basketball team who is off to a winning record and playing St. Mary’s tonight, within the last year over 82 St. Edward’s athletes have received NCAA division two or heartland conference awards for varying degrees of accomplishment. Including Angela Vorpahl who besides being an all-star member of the Volleyball team, earned the Valedictorian in last May’s commencement.
Athletes like All- American David Fuentes, who is a member of the St. Edward’s cross country team and a senior is another prime example. Fuentes represented St. Edward’s well by winning three-straight Heartland Conference Runner of the Year awards, three appearances in the NCAA Regional’s, and two appearances in the NCAA National Championship. In addition he is the first St. Edward’s Cross Country runner selected to be an All-American. Fuentes and Vorphol are just two examples of the wonderful legacy of success this campus can produce.
This year also marks the 35th anniversary of Women’s athletics here at St. Edward's University. In the coming weeks there will be several events celebrating this. It is hard to imagine a time when this campus was without all of the great female athletes who have done so well in their respective sports and I look forward to many more successful years.
The Student body is showing their pride as more students are attending games. Currently the average men’s basketball attendance is 487, which is 61 more students per game than last season. A true testament to the hard work of the student athletes, as well as the spirit organization the Hillraisers.
The St. Edward's University campus has seen many changes recently. New buildings and new faces are everywhere. Student Life recently added four assistant directors to handle the great responsibility of working with students, student organizations and initiatives around campus. St. Edward’s hired a new Police Chief, in Chief Randy Rendon; as well as several new officers. The campus also hired top notch administrators including Rhonda Cartwright, Vice President of Financial Affairs and Robert Manzer, to the new Vice President of academic affairs.
Moving outside of Personnel acquisitions, The physical landscape is changing. St. Edward’s is currently in talks with the city of Austin for a multi-million dollar deal to enhance the front of the campus along Congress, making our front entrance more beautiful and noticeable in the process. New Campus buildings and renovated one’s have also made their mark. Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel recently received a brand new exterior, windows and fresh coat of paint. The Recreation and Convocation center recently received a brand new welcoming entrance; Sorin hall is currently undergoing major renovations to make our experience their a better and safer one and construction has begun on the new home for the behavioral and social sciences, additional office space and classrooms that will replace the legacy hall of Doyle.
Of course, the most high-profile building is coming on-line. The New Residence village, which is now the largest building on campus, has students already moved in. Student Government Association members recently went on a tour of the new community and found it to indeed be the unique building we were promised. While construction on the building is not complete the new dining facility is planned to be opened on Saturday, February 14th. And the Grand opening for the Hunt, LeMans and Lady Bird Johnson halls will be Tuesday, February 17th following President Martin’s meeting.
Truly this new building presents many challenges to a growing campus, but it should be looked at with great opportunity.
Other campus facilities also saw some changes. The University Bookstore’s management changed hands. After completing an exhaustive search and bid process the Texas Book company was awarded the opportunity to operate the campus store. The Texas book company has major plans for the former natatorium, which has taken many forms over the last several decades.
Across the breezeway in the meadow’s coffee shop has undergone the third name change in as many years, to the locally owned Texenza. What is important to keep in mind throughout all of these many changes is that students were included in many of the initial discussions at unprecedented numbers. Yet, there is still much more that can be done. I urge that moving forward any significant change’s that will impact students must have student input. Our student’s posses skills that should be utilized. Projects and initiatives must have students involved. If we are to maintain this positive campus that I know exists, Students should be the first on administrators minds.
In trying to meet the new demands our larger campus has, the Student Government Association expanded many areas and has evolved to make a better organization for the students. I am proud to say that our entrance into academic school representation has gone well. The Student Government Association made a commitment to the belief that students have a need to be represented in their areas of academia. Therefore we eliminated several “traditional seats”, those reserved for class based representation and added two seats per academic school. The School representative elections coincided with the freshmen elections and drew a sizable amount of interest. Not surprisingly the behavioral and social Science seat alone saw five students running for two spots. As the School representatives continue meeting with their deans and listening to their respective student constituency, I am confident that these positions will continue to foster interest from those within certain majors and continue expanding, therefore bringing the much needed academic diversity to the association.
In addition to this change, the Student Government Association made a commitment to expand the area of Student Representation dramatically. Under the Direction of Vice President Bethany Carroll, the Student Representation committee has grown from two members to nine and taken on the very important role of placing students in the various campus committee’s, acting as the eyes and ears for Student Government and the student body. This committee provides an important loop that allows the student representatives within the committee to report back on those committees and in turn allow for Student Government to provide feedback. Last semester alone saw students being placed on over 35 university committees. Some include the Academic Council, Campus Safety & Police Affairs Committee, the City of Austin Mayor’s Council on Student Affairs and the Presidential Environmental Signing Committee.
In an ongoing effort with the University Police Department and the office of Student Affairs the Student Parking and Traffic Court has had a wonderful start to its second year. This year has seen a substantial increase in campus recognition and the court’s docket is on task to exceed over 200 cases by the end of the semester. A great thanks needs to be extended to the Justices and the support staff of the court.
Legislation has recently flooded the Senate chambers. These pieces of legislation range from making daily life here at St. Edward’s easier to issues that require advanced amount of research. Whatever the size and scope of the issue, let it be known that Student Government must pursue action. There is no issue too small or too expansive for us to handle.
There are many Senators working hard on legislation. I would like to highlight a few of them. Junior Executive Senator Bryce Bencivengo’s Athletic Banners resolution has demonstrated an effort to expand our athletic spirit. To increase awareness and bolster pride in the excellence of the St. Edward’s athletic community the Athletic Banners resolution proposes improving and updating the awards banners displayed in the Recreation and Convocation Center.
SGA is also currently researching the Reinstatement of the Pass/No Pass option that proposes at the very least Grandfathering in the new policy regarding Science in Perspective courses. There are several resolutions concerning the beautification and safety of our campus that aims to make our tenure here better. And of course the issue that is at the forefront of every student’s minds: tuition. This common concern has been addressed in Senate by Executive Academic School Senator Christopher Duke in his resolution S.E.U. A.C.T. N.O.W. This resolution is meant to provide research on possible alternatives to the current raises in tuition.
Going forward your Student Government Association will continue evolving under amazing student leadership in order to make the student experience here better. There are many issues around campus that are still left to be solved. Such as what to do with Capstone, how to make our campus more environmentally friendly, is plus/minus grading acceptable, and how will our campus move forward in the next five years? You as a Student have a responsibility to use your VOICE and let us know what we can do for you.
We are an organization that prides itself by being the body who looks out for student concerns and works with all areas of campus to ensure the highest quality of educational experience available. The Student Government Association members have spent countless hours and sacrificed many evenings either in meetings, working on legislation, or any other duty being a member of SGA requires. And should be proud.
In conclusion I want to thank all of you for taking time out from your busy first week to come here. I myself am missing class right now.
What I want you to take away from here is a few points. This campus is thriving. While other campuses are facing much harder economic times, our University has positioned itself well for the coming months. But that does not mean that sacrifices are not going to have to be made. We are certainly not immune from this turbulent time, but we are somewhat protected. Troubled roads are ahead and expectations are certainly not high.
Yet this campus is still optimistic. The Holy Cross traditions are still alive and fostering to the mission of the university. And that translates into an education that is meaningful. I assure you that every faculty and staff members here truly does want you to succeed.
And this campus is also prepared, prepared for the future because the students here are some of the best around. We are also a very young campus. Out of the 3,397 undergraduate students nearly 1,170 are classified as freshmen. So I have this to say to you freshmen and everyone else who attends. It is not too late to get involved. There are many opportunities around campus and Austin that are worth your time. Take advantage of every service there is to offer. Make the most out every moment you have. Remain optimistic that we will get through these tough times.
And always remember that you should never be afraid of the things you cannot control, but always afraid of things you can control and do not. For that is the reason you are on this campus, to control your future and change the world. I wish nothing but the best, and on behalf of the student Government Association have a great semester. Thank you and God bless.
Monday, January 12, 2009
State of the Campus Address, Thursday
The State of the Campus Address with take place his Thursday, January 15th at 5 pm. It will be held in Mabee Ballrooms B and C.
Come hear Student Body President, Austin Lytle, in the annual Student State of the Campus Address. Listen to University updates, and learn about the latest accomplishments and goals of the Student Government Association. Light refreshments will be provided, and everyone is encouraged to stay after and meet with their representative.
Please join us! We'd love to see you there! Use your voice.
Come hear Student Body President, Austin Lytle, in the annual Student State of the Campus Address. Listen to University updates, and learn about the latest accomplishments and goals of the Student Government Association. Light refreshments will be provided, and everyone is encouraged to stay after and meet with their representative.
Please join us! We'd love to see you there! Use your voice.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Senate Meeting Minutes 12/03/08: HELP resolution final passage!
Student Government Association
Senate Meeting Minutes for December 2, 2008
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v Volunteers need for Festival of Lights – please sign up! MANDATORY EVENT, so will be an absence if you don’t attend, but if you do go you get .5 absence credit
v IT is working to fix issues with wireless internet
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v It has been a pleasure to serve as your president for this semester, and am excited to get to work on another strong semester in the spring
v Congratulations to the Freshman Class for winning Member of the Month!
v Please remember to check your e-mails over the holiday break
v If anyone will be in town on January 8, there will be an orientation that SGA needs to be at
v Don’t worry about office hours for this week – go study!
Senate Meeting Minutes for December 2, 2008
7:30pm, Mabee Ballroom A
I. Call to Order President Lytle
II. Roll Call of Members Executive Secretary Holdsworth
III. Approval of Minutes
o Approved
IV. Approval of Agenda
o Approved
V. Community Announcements
v Volunteers need for Festival of Lights – please sign up! MANDATORY EVENT, so will be an absence if you don’t attend, but if you do go you get .5 absence credit
v IT is working to fix issues with wireless internet
VI. Officer Reports
o President President Lytle
v It has been a pleasure to serve as your president for this semester, and am excited to get to work on another strong semester in the spring
v Congratulations to the Freshman Class for winning Member of the Month!
v Please remember to check your e-mails over the holiday break
v If anyone will be in town on January 8, there will be an orientation that SGA needs to be at
v Don’t worry about office hours for this week – go study!
o Intergovernmental Affairs Vice President Cromack
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
§ Will be discussing CFL light bulbs legislation
v Committee meetings on Wednesdays at 7PM
§ Will be discussing CFL light bulbs legislation
o Legislative Initiatives Vice President Kuentz
v Report given by President Lytle:
§ LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
§ If you have a piece of legislation in LI, please attend
v Report given by President Lytle:
§ LI committee meetings are Wednesdays @ 8PM in Lucas
§ If you have a piece of legislation in LI, please attend
o Student Representation Vice President Carroll
v SR committee needs to see Bethany after the senate meeting to discuss a few things
v No committee meeting this Thursday
v Will be discussing committee rearrangements in January
v SR committee needs to see Bethany after the senate meeting to discuss a few things
v No committee meeting this Thursday
v Will be discussing committee rearrangements in January
o Senior Class Executive Senator Bustos
v Senior class social, December 13 – at the Graduation Reception
v New legislation from seniors coming up tonight!
v Senior class social, December 13 – at the Graduation Reception
v New legislation from seniors coming up tonight!
o Junior Class Executive Senator Bencivengo
v New legislation being presented tonight
v If you have any ideas for the Junior class social, please contact Bryce
v New legislation being presented tonight
v If you have any ideas for the Junior class social, please contact Bryce
o Sophomore Class Executive Senator Martin
v Motion for point of personal privilege by Executive Senator Martin
§ Seconded
v Special Orders – Senator Arce’s Resignation
§ Unable to give the necessary dedication and attention to SGA
§ The Association thanks her for her work and wishes her the best
v Motion for point of personal privilege by Executive Senator Martin
§ Seconded
v Special Orders – Senator Arce’s Resignation
§ Unable to give the necessary dedication and attention to SGA
§ The Association thanks her for her work and wishes her the best
o Freshman Class Executive Senator Peal
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Class social will be next semester
v Class meeting Wednesday at 10PM
v Class social will be next semester
o Schools Represented Executive Senator Duke
v Special Orders – Senator Wood’s Resignation
§ Will continue to work with The BIG Event and Homecoming committee
§ Thank you for 3 years of work!
v School social on Thursday in the Kresge Room from 6-8PM
v Continuing to look for applicants to fill vacancies
v Joint Freshman & Schools Partnership starting in the spring working on dedicating 2 hours a month to outreach
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Have made a page on Facebook called “Digital Comment Box” for students to post concerns, please sign your name on the sheet if you are interested in picking any of them up as legislation
v Working on a new brochure
v Working on napkins for Festival of Lights
v It was decided that tray-liners aren’t environmentally friends, so working on a napkin idea instead
v Possible a bulletin board in cafeteria
v Special Orders – Senator Wood’s Resignation
§ Will continue to work with The BIG Event and Homecoming committee
§ Thank you for 3 years of work!
v School social on Thursday in the Kresge Room from 6-8PM
v Continuing to look for applicants to fill vacancies
v Joint Freshman & Schools Partnership starting in the spring working on dedicating 2 hours a month to outreach
VII. Cabinet Report
o Director/Associate Director of Public Relations
v Have made a page on Facebook called “Digital Comment Box” for students to post concerns, please sign your name on the sheet if you are interested in picking any of them up as legislation
v Working on a new brochure
v Working on napkins for Festival of Lights
v It was decided that tray-liners aren’t environmentally friends, so working on a napkin idea instead
v Possible a bulletin board in cafeteria
o Director of Association Events
v VACANT
o Director of Finance
v VACANT
v VACANT
o Director of Finance
v VACANT
o Director of Member Development and Training
v Not present
v Not present
o Director of Service
v Thank you to all those who helped sponsor a family for Thanksgiving
v SCC is doing a winter clothing drive from now until Friday
v Working on a service survey to keep track of what is working for the association
v People still needed for The BIG Event committee
v Hilltop Leaders is working with an elder home to have a holiday party on December 17 and they need volunteers
v Thank you to all those who helped sponsor a family for Thanksgiving
v SCC is doing a winter clothing drive from now until Friday
v Working on a service survey to keep track of what is working for the association
v People still needed for The BIG Event committee
v Hilltop Leaders is working with an elder home to have a holiday party on December 17 and they need volunteers
o Director of Involvement
v Have developed a calendar for Homecoming week
v Everything is going along smoothly
v Have developed a calendar for Homecoming week
v Everything is going along smoothly
o Chief of Staff
v Still looking into ice skating this Saturday
v Please encourage anyone interested to apply for open Director positions
v Polos have been ordered!
VIII. Unfinished Business
v S.R. 107 – Health Education & Labeling Process (H.E.L.P.)
o The vending provider has already agreed to go through with this
o There will be a green sticker by the price of snacks indicating that that particular item is healthy/good for you
o They will begin being installed when machines are restocked, so this will be a process (not immediately)
o Encourages Senators Garcia and Semien to write legislation regarding nutrition labeling for food in cafeteria via Bon Appetit
o Nutrition value is already predetermined by the company
o No plans to change what food is available at this time – there are about 6 snacks that currently meet the “green” standard
o Would it be possible to have SGA input on the nutritional value, i.e. doing our own research?
§ We can raise the issue with Mike Stone if we feel something needs to be addressed
v Still looking into ice skating this Saturday
v Please encourage anyone interested to apply for open Director positions
v Polos have been ordered!
VIII. Unfinished Business
v S.R. 107 – Health Education & Labeling Process (H.E.L.P.)
o The vending provider has already agreed to go through with this
o There will be a green sticker by the price of snacks indicating that that particular item is healthy/good for you
o They will begin being installed when machines are restocked, so this will be a process (not immediately)
o Encourages Senators Garcia and Semien to write legislation regarding nutrition labeling for food in cafeteria via Bon Appetit
o Nutrition value is already predetermined by the company
o No plans to change what food is available at this time – there are about 6 snacks that currently meet the “green” standard
o Would it be possible to have SGA input on the nutritional value, i.e. doing our own research?
§ We can raise the issue with Mike Stone if we feel something needs to be addressed
IX. New Business
v S.B. 06 – School Senator Elections Timeline Revision
o To revise the Elections Manual to move school senator elections to the spring, instead of the fall, so all senator positions can be filled at once
o The way it currently stands, nearly 50% of senate would not be in place until 4 weeks into the new academic year
o 10 Minute Discussion
o During the last election, there was 1 individual from each school, except BSS which had 5, running for a school seat
o Feel that students will run where they best connect (class or school)
o Will school senators be rounded up towards the next year?
§ Yes, it works the same way as class senators
o How would this affect the School of Education positions?
§ It wouldn’t affect them
o Concern with election committee advising students where to run
o **Sent to IGA, but with some objection
v S.B. 06 – School Senator Elections Timeline Revision
o To revise the Elections Manual to move school senator elections to the spring, instead of the fall, so all senator positions can be filled at once
o The way it currently stands, nearly 50% of senate would not be in place until 4 weeks into the new academic year
o 10 Minute Discussion
o During the last election, there was 1 individual from each school, except BSS which had 5, running for a school seat
o Feel that students will run where they best connect (class or school)
o Will school senators be rounded up towards the next year?
§ Yes, it works the same way as class senators
o How would this affect the School of Education positions?
§ It wouldn’t affect them
o Concern with election committee advising students where to run
o **Sent to IGA, but with some objection
v S.R. 113 – SEU Student Employee Bill of Rights
o Student employees are not currently informed of basic Human Resources policies
o There is a formal and informal resolution process
o No idea how to file complaints
o Asking Human Resources to notify students of ways to do so
o There are a significant number of students who have expressed concern with filing a complaint and being in a tense environment
o 10 Minute Discussion
o Have you talked to Human Resources already?
§ Not yet, waiting for this resolution to go to committee to get permission to do so
o Would like to see Human Resources have a complaint process tailored for each job
o Might be beneficial to have a concrete way to present this information, such as a poster board
o **Sent to LI with unanimous consent
X. Gallery Comments
o Please remember to sign up for Festival of Lights
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o Check your e-mail for an invitation to Collegiate Link
o Please remember to get your spring schedule and give it to Executive Secretary Holdsworth (e-mail or hard copy in her box)
o Remember to let Marisa or Austin know if you are talking to admin staff, so they are aware
o If you have ideas for State of the Campus, let Whitney, Austin or Marisa know
XII. Final Comments
o Administration liked our idea to know the new dining facility The Huddle and is going through with it!
o Student employees are not currently informed of basic Human Resources policies
o There is a formal and informal resolution process
o No idea how to file complaints
o Asking Human Resources to notify students of ways to do so
o There are a significant number of students who have expressed concern with filing a complaint and being in a tense environment
o 10 Minute Discussion
o Have you talked to Human Resources already?
§ Not yet, waiting for this resolution to go to committee to get permission to do so
o Would like to see Human Resources have a complaint process tailored for each job
o Might be beneficial to have a concrete way to present this information, such as a poster board
o **Sent to LI with unanimous consent
X. Gallery Comments
o Please remember to sign up for Festival of Lights
XI. Advisors Comments Advisor Walden
o Check your e-mail for an invitation to Collegiate Link
o Please remember to get your spring schedule and give it to Executive Secretary Holdsworth (e-mail or hard copy in her box)
o Remember to let Marisa or Austin know if you are talking to admin staff, so they are aware
o If you have ideas for State of the Campus, let Whitney, Austin or Marisa know
XII. Final Comments
o Administration liked our idea to know the new dining facility The Huddle and is going through with it!
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