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!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
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.
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