Student Senate meets to address Parliamentary Procedure and conclude resolutions for new members
Photo via The New Political staff
The Ohio University Student Senate met this Wednesday to discuss their new agenda and resolutions for the upcoming school year. Before their meeting began, Executive Staff Assistant Olivia Barnes made a point of going over the Basics of Parliamentary Procedure so that they would know how to participate respectfully in the Senate and follow the rules and guidelines correctly. This makes the Senate’s decision-making process more effective.
Additionally, students were reminded that SAC's bi-weekly funding is going live on Sept. 20.
The commissioner reports this week involved upcoming events and news on campus. There was discussion of removing time blocks for traditional meal plans, encouraging safer residence halls, and approving accessible laundry products.
One commissioner spoke about increasing support for the Pride Center, holding a voter registration event for Registration Day, and events being held for students. These events included a TA Appreciation Day event on Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and a LinkedIn Workshop on Nov. 30.
Another commissioner stated they wanted to push staff hiring for the departments of the Senate, as well as advocating for more wheelchair-accessible sidewalks on campus. Updates on these future events are on the Student Senate’s Instagram and posted inside Baker Center.
President Dan Gordillo began his report by discussing the recent protests that have occurred on campus, stressing the importance of freedom of expression and protected speech. Gordillo emphasized the importance of maintaining calm support and veering away from words that could induce violence. Second, he mentioned the need for people to fill standing positions in the senate committees.
Other business reports from commissioners and directors include points from Vice President Kiandra Martin, and Executive Staff members including more upcoming events in Athens. The Black Princess Memorial Scholarship Pageant will take place on Saturday, Sept. 28.
The Senate also discussed a homecoming get-together for current and Alumni Student Senate members, following this year’s Homecoming Parade.
In other business, the Senate passed several resolutions to appoint new senators and commissioners, including:
Senate resolution 2425-18: Jayson Smith appointed Governmental Affairs Senator
Senate resolution 2425-19: Nithya Gatla appointed Minority Affairs Commissioner
Senate resolution 2425-21: Claire Devine appointed Women’s Affairs Vice-commissioner
Senate resolution 2425-22: Olivia Handa appointed Minority Affairs Senator
Senate resolution 2425-23: Knox Sarver appointed SAC delegate
Sponsors spoke highly of these appointees, evaluating their work ethic and good representation for the Senate this coming school year.