Advisers on advising
Representatives from the office of Advising and Academic Resources were invited to speak at last Friday’s Senate meeting.
Beth Higgins, director of Academic Advising and Enrollment Services, spoke at length about the role of her department and later addressed questions and concerns from senators.
Senate Treasurer Justin LaBerge said he felt students should be able to decide whether or not they want an adviser. He said he can pick his classes on his own and doesn’t need to be advised.
Senate Secretary Tyler Stanley voiced his concern that most advisers are good, but those who aren’t should be weeded out to protect students.
The Senate spent almost 45 minutes discussing advising.
PEB report
Portland Events Board Chair Jon Taylor gave his semester report.
Taylor discussed previous events such as open-mic nights and the Maine Rock Unites benefit concert held shortly after the Sept. 11 attacks. The concert raised over $3,000 and attracted over 100 volunteers.
Taylor said he is focussing his energy on a major spring fling event scheduled for April 19 on the Gorham campus.
Anyone interested in getting involved with the spring fling event can contact Taylor at 874-6598.
New Appointees
The Senate appointed a new at-large senator, Joanne Pertillar.
Pertillar, who is retired, said she has grandchildren who are the same age as some of the senators. She added she’s not joining the Senate as a resume builder, but rather to help change things for the better at USM.
Commuter Sen. Ben Hoffman was appointed to the University’s Judiciary Screening Committee and Mark Bologna was appointed to the financial chair of the Gorham Events Board.
Commencement Announcement
It was announced that Daniel Wathen, former chief justice of the Maine Supreme Court will be this year’s commencement speaker. Wathen recently resigned from the Supreme Court to run for governor.
LaBerge said the announcement has continued the tradition of white male Republicans speaking at commencement.
Finance
The estimated amount of money left in the Senate account is $4,700.
Absent
The following senators were absent: Commuter Sen. Mike Norton and At-Large Sen. Leah Wentworth (it was excused).
Next meeting
The next meeting of the Student Senate will take place Friday Feb. 4 at 10:30 a.m. in 113 Bailey Hall. All are encouraged to attend.