USGD discussed community outreach initiatives and unanimously approved $5,850.62 in funding to clubs at Friday’s Senate meeting.
President Frank Smith III and Director of Local Affairs Becca Smouse toured the city last week as part of an effort by USGD to work more closely with local businesses. Responses were positive, according to Smith.
“ASU is well-established, the habits of its students generally set, and now we see the opportunity, or obligation, to pursue an even better relationship with the local community,” Smith said in an email.
Smith proposed a First Fridays trolley tour that would allow students to become better acquainted with the city. Smouse, who was not present at the meeting Friday, will lead the initiative. Smith also announced negotiations for a second Food Truck Fiesta each year.
Also discussed at the meeting was Senate Bill 13, which required USGD appointment of a Senate co-chair. It passed unanimously. The bill minimizes the potential disruption caused by the absence of the chair, who is the Senate president.
“It’s just so we make sure everything is handled while I’m gone,” Senate President Stephany Caceres said.
Smith announced progress in negotiations with administration for a new library on the Downtown Phoenix campus. The library would be housed within the law school building that is planned to be built downtown, Smith said. If affiliated, the library would be required to stock exclusively law-related material.
Student responses regarding the new library arrived this week, Vice President of Services Marcus Dudas said.
USGD approved $5,850.62 on Friday based on recommendations made Tuesday by the Budget Allocation Committee.
The Exercise and Wellness Organization received a total of $1,443.17. USGD approved $1,125 for a conference and $318.17 for a panel event, which the club will host on campus.
“We really feel that Exercise and Wellness worked together with BAC to come to an agreement,” said Senator Erika Tuerr, who advocated on behalf of the club. The organization agreed Tuesday to contribute $150 toward panel expenses, cutting the cost to USGD. Previously, the club received $150 in funding for “Pie the Professor,” which raised $200.
USGD approved the Social Work Student Organization’s request for $207.50 to buy business cards, sweatshirts and T-shirts.
ASU Downtown Queer and Allies did not attend the BAC meeting Tuesday or the Senate meeting Friday, so USGD denied the organization’s request for $2,500 in funding.
The Arizona State Therapeutic Recreation Association received $555 to cover costs for a conference that will take place on campus and $284.95 for 50 T-shirts.
USGD approved the Parks and Recreation Student Association’s request for $1,560. The funds cover what PRSA describes as a team building and leadership development trip to ASU football Camp Tontazona. The proposal encountered resistance on Tuesday when Director of Finances William Padmore voiced concern over funding a “retreat” or “vacation.” USGD previously approved the Student Nutrition Council for what the organization described as a “retreat.”
The Resident Hall Association received $1,800 for attendance expenses of a development conference.
All funding votes were unanimous.
Contact the reporter at noah.b.briggs@asu.edu
