The Student Senate

 

The Student Senate is a part of the Student Government and is the legislative branch of the Gordon College Student Association. The Assembly governs the association in a way that represents and serves the best interests of the student body. The Senate currently has 10 elected positions, 9 representing each Residence Hall, and one representing commuting students. 

Powers and Responsibilities

The Senate’s powers and responsibilities are defined by the GCSA Constitution and Handbook. This includes both the governing control of GCSA internally, as well as the symbolic voice of the student body.

Within GCSA the Senate’s powers are extensive and significant. First and foremost is the sole power of the purse. The GCSA budget is set by the Senate and determines how over $100,000 is allocated and spent. Second, is the control of the establishment and review of all GCSA organizations. This includes all student clubs, councils, publications, and agencies. Third is the oversight of the government administration (the executive branch). The organizational establishment of each position in and their core responsibilities is set by the Handbook, which is ultimately amendable by the Senate. Fourth is the duty to review all appointments for non-elected positions that the President appoints.

Standing Committees

The Senate is compromised of multiple standing committees, all of which are defined by the Handbook. These committees work on various Student Government initiatives to represent students and improve campus life.

Committee of Student Life
The Committee on Student Life Works to enhance the student life experience. The committee advocates for student needs with respect to the wholistic student life experience, college services, and applicable policies of the college.

Committee of Academic Affairs
The Committee on Academic Affairs works to enhance student success by promoting academic initiatives and lobbying for changes in policy at the administrative level. The committee will work closely with faculty committees, the Office of Academic Initiatives, and other institutional leaders to ensure that the academic program of the college is serving student needs.

Committee of Intercultural Engagement
The Committee on Intercultural Engagement monitors the colleges’ development and implementation of programs and services which offer support, advocacy, engagement, and sense of belonging for students from historically marginalized and excluded identities. In collaboration with key campus partners and MIO leaders, the committee promotes the wellness for BIPOC and other historically marginalized students utilizing an intersectional perspective.