By Andrew Thibaudeau, Contributing Writer
Monday’s Student Senate meeting involved several budget requests and concerns from students about future college operations.
Officer Reports
Vice President Geoffrey Meadville ’25 reminded attendees of the Senator-at-Large vacancy. Newly elected and appointed members are to participate in a new member training session at the end of this month and the beginning of the following month.
Parliamentarian Joey Labrie ’25 addressed the updated website, which now includes the new constitution, questions and concerns, and budget request information.
Budget Requests
The EMS Club came to the table with a request of $2,537.74. The club requested the funds for a trip to Boston, where students could acquire certifications.
This request initially aimed to cover everything for students except for meals. The Senate came up with an agreement that lowered the budget. Senate required participants to pay for their own hotel rooms, thus lowering the Senate-approved amount to $1,661.37.
Student Musical Theater put in a request of $1,530.00 to produce their rendition of the Addams Family Musical. This request was approved in full.
A request of $1,285.00 was made by Listeners and Performers. This amount included servicing and repairing instruments and a new sound system. Senate passed $1,105 of the request.
The final request of the night came from Model United Nations, which requested that $920.00 be approved by the Student Senate. This would cover the registration fees for any students attending a four-day conference at the University of Virginia, and other fees would hopefully be covered by the Provost’s Office. The Student Senate denied the request and sent it back to committee.
Student Concerns
One of the biggest concerns throughout Monday’s meeting was the growing application and acceptance rates for the college. Some students voiced doubt about the college’s readiness for incoming students, while others expressed hope that this would bring more off-campus housing options.
Students expressed interest in knowing where tuition payments are going.
In addition to the potential growth of the college, students noted concerns about parking issues. A recent notification was distributed to students permitting parking in employee lots at specific times throughout the week. Many students expressed that they would like to see a reopening of Stone Lot along with an extension of the current hours. However, Senate responded that Stone Lot requires paving.
There was a concern regarding a lack of lighting near the stadium parking lot for commuter students.
Another student was concerned about the early closure of Breidenbaugh Hall, which is typically left open at longer hours for students to use. As a result, students said Glatfelter has become congested, and many students feel forced to study in their dorms.
