SENATORS
Each degree-granting department is eligible to have two senators. Senators attend monthly senate meetings and are encouraged to serve on at least one committee. Each department determines a method for selecting senators. Options include elections, appointments by student group or self-appointment. Under-represented graduate and professional minority groups may also petition to elect one Senator to represent that group.
UNDERREPRESENTED GRADUATE AND PROFESSIONAL MINORITY GROUPS
Under-represented graduate and professional minority groups may petition to elect one Senator to represent that group. This seat is for the period of two years, upon which a review of the need for representation is required for renewal. In the past, FIUTS (Foundation for International Understanding Through Students), representing international graduate students and the visiting students impacted by Hurricane Katrina were granted Senate seats through this process.
The petition should be submitted to the GPSS Secretary at least two weeks prior to the regular GPSS Senate meeting. The petition will then be brought before the GPSS Senate for approval.
The Senator elected in this manner will have the rights and privileges of other senators.
The GPSS Secretary will conduct an annual review of all Senate seats so granted and provide notice to any group whose period has lapsed. If the group fails to advance a Senate resolution continuing the grant for another two years by the next Senate meeting, the grant will be terminated. Groups that gain representation by petition are not eligible for Departmental Funds, but they are eligible to apply for Special Allocation Funds.
For further information please e-mail the GPSS Secretary.