Student Senate addresses new Libraries Student Advisory Board, student support
Student Senate introduced Ohio University’s new Libraries Student Advisory Board with guest speaker Kelly Broughton, assistant dean for research and education services, during a virtual meeting Wednesday night.
According to Broughton, the board is made up of 11 student representatives from different legislative bodies around campus as well as administrative library staff. It will meet four times a year to discuss student academic needs, the use of library space and feedback for improvements, as well as promote library services and events.
The addition of the advisory board is intended to help facilitate communication between Ohio U library staff and students, and to provide direct access to the libraries’ administrative leadership, making it easier for both student voices to be heard and needs to be addressed.
Senate also discussed its desire for student voices to be amplified within the university in regard to recent tensions concerning professor Yusuf Kalyango and the December recommendation by a Faculty Senate committee that he keep his tenure.
Vice President Elizabeth Lilly, Graduate Student Senate, the Women’s Affairs Commission and Commissioner Maxeen Ramlo met last Friday with Faculty Senate to address creating better legislation that will allow for increased inclusivity and representation in both Student Senate and Graduate Student Senate.
“As we continue working to make changes for our campus to become more inclusive and safe for Ohio students, Bobcats support Bobcats, and being a part of that community means holding everyone accountable,” said Public Relations Director Emily Ertle. “As Senate members, we will continue to ensure that the voices of Ohio University students are heard and understood.”
Chief of Staff Elaina Tartal reminded members to share their letter campaign, which advocates for the removal of Kaylango’s tenure, with the Board of Trustees. Students who are unsure of how to express their opinions on the matter can find a premade letter written by the Student Senate online and email it to the board at trustees@ohio.edu.
In other business, Student Senate advisor Patricia McSteen said students who are eligible for work study may also be eligible to receive monthly SNAP benefits through the recent CARES Act, which was passed in December. For questions regarding SNAP benefits and program eligibility, students should email foodpantry@ohio.edu.
Adviser Jenny Hall-Jones informed Senate that to celebrate Ohio U turning 217 years old, a tee shirt swap will be held next Thursday in front of Baker Center. Students can bring in any t-shirt with a college logo on it and receive a “Forever Ohio” t-shirt in exchange. Any shirt brought in will be donated to the Salvation Army of Athens.
Senate also appointed senators Megan Handle and Sarah Packard to the committee on the budget, bringing the committee to full quorum and opening the budget for spending.