The following items were discussed at the meeting of GSA officers on Aug. 31 2006.
- Introduction of the members of each committee
- The social committee explained the rules about alcohol at GSA sponsored
events. Individuals may bring alcohol to any GSA sponsors event but the
GSA cannot pay for it.
The Graduate student faculty Happy hour was brought up in this context
because the faculty committee organizing that event had asked the GSA for
money last year to help pay for the party. There were concerns that the
money would be used to purchase alcohol. Since the parties are popular
among graduate students it was decided to offer other services to help
out instead of a financial contribution.
- The GSA sponsors rides to various local stores at the beginning of
each new term in an effort to help new graduate students get to know
people and learn their way around as well as getting set up in their
apartments.. The rides were organized for Thursday afternoons. Posting
flyers with the dates and places was suggested and agreed to.
Three drivers were chosen and it was agreed to pay each driver 20$ to
cover gas and expenses.
- The GSA benefits committee brought up the survey of graduate students
that was conducted last spring. Several members raised questions about
the low number of students responding to the survey and could the results
be taken seriously. Other members of the group present suggested that
the survey was done for the GSA’s information only in order to establish
priorities for the GSA benefits committee.
When discussing GSA concerns with the university it is important to have
graduate students concerns prioritized because there are limited resources
but their allocation my be changed.
- The date and time for the New Graduate students Party was discussed and
money was allocated for food.
- The last item mentioned was the GSA website. This website has forms for
complaints as well as information about GSA activities and meetings.
Submitted by
Wendy Barber-Armstrong
Vice president