The Associated Students of the University of Arizona Senate discussed and ultimately decided to table their bylaws on Oct. 1. In contrast to the constitution, the bylaws outline day-to-day operations of the senate, including their budget.

Student Affairs Advisory Council

The senate was excited to welcome the Vice President of Student Affairs, Amanda Kraus, to discuss the new Student Advisory Council and updates within the Office of Student Affairs.

“We are trying to create experiences, programs, services, environments that are appropriate for students, help facilitate that growth and make it easy for you to get involved or feel connected,” Kraus said.

Kraus went on to mention that the university originally did not have a proper student affairs division. However, according to Kraus, in the last year or so, the office has become permanent, as the UA has recommitted to student affairs as a whole. 

Student Affairs comprises seven departments including Campus Health, Campus Recreation, Dean of Students Office, the Disability Resource Center, Housing and Residential life, Family Programs and Student Engagement and Career Development. 

In collaboration with the Office of Student Affairs, the Student Advisory Council would be open to all students, including first-years, regardless of major. The primary function of the council is to provide authentic and constructive feedback on issues and experiences affecting all students.

“We want to start a student advisory board because I think it would be valuable both ways to have a group of students we know and trust to run ideas by them, get their thoughts and kind of survey them,” Kraus said.  

The Student Advisory Council was created after recognizing students having a greater interest and awareness of justice and equity, amidst many different changes on campus. 

The application for the Spring semester will be due Oct. 20.

New with the Senate

Executive Vice President Benjamin Huff shared that the Senate has brought on a new club engagement director. This is the first time the Senate has had this position, and Huffman expressed excitement to navigate how this role will help expand ASUA outreach. 

The Senate Appropriations Board announced they are currently approving budget appropriations for on-campus clubs and student organizations. These proposals will determine clubs’ budgets for the year.  

College of Education Senator Alyssa Freeman highlighted her meeting with the college’s dean, during which they discussed the possibility of creating a Black student group. 

“It will be student-led for education majors and minors,” Freeman said.

The College of Information Science Senator, Humza Sheikh, introduced the new Information Science Club Council, which serves as an umbrella for clubs within the college. The council would then be able to advocate for clubs’ funding needs.   

President’s Privilege

President Adriana Grijalva highlighted upcoming events such as Alcohol Awareness Week starting Oct. 20, upcoming spirit weeks and Homecoming week. She also mentioned the up and coming Be Kind, Bear Down initiative including speakers, activities and food in order to promote kindness on campus. 

Grijalva also discussed her goal of bringing back Cats at the Capitol, where students spend a day at the state capital in Phoenix lobbying the state legislature.

She also highlighted the goal of better connecting ASUA Senate with the Graduate student council to encourage more collaboration.  

“We have a lot of aligned missions, basic needs and a lot of things they offer for academics and advising, and we want to make sure you have that support too,” Grijalva said about the graduate council.

Grijalva also shared talking points from her meeting with the provost. The main goals discussed were success for every student, research that shapes the future and increased community engagement.

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