Graduate Student Senate delays executive elections
Graduate Student Senate’s executive board elections have been delayed at least two weeks amid confusion among members of the body concerning the application process required to run.
A resolution presented to GSS aired several grievances senators have with the process. Members noted that applicants were not properly notified of the election process, the deadline or the scope of the positions available.
Controversy also arose over an eligibility requirement, which states that an applicant must have received the signatures of at least 20% of the senate body to file. Senators said they did not know how many people 20% of the body is. They also mentioned the lack of senators’ public-facing contact information made securing signatures difficult.
The resolution called to extend the application deadline and senators approved it unanimously.
GSS also approved a resolution that will create an annual award for the winners of the Student Exposition, a showcase where undergraduate and graduate students have the opportunity to display original projects, designs and presentations to the public. The event, which is scheduled to be held in April by the Department of Student Research and Creative Activity, will consist of a wide range of subjects, from innovative technological designs to documentary pieces.
Students have traditionally received ranked placing in a number of categories, but this year will be the first time winners will receive a cash award and a plaque with their name and ranking.
The first-place winner will receive $150, the second-place winner will receive $75, and third place winner will receive $50. The awards will be decided by a popular vote of exposition attendees, according to the resolution.
GSS also announced an initiative with the Ohio University Counseling and Psychological Services to form two focus groups to provide feedback and suggestions for improving student counseling. Those interested in participating may email gss@ohio.edu for more information.
