What is the University Senate?
The University Senate is the academic governing body, made up of elected faculty, students, administrators and staff.
What are the powers of the University Senate?
The Senate is empowered to approve new curricula (courses as well as programs of study), to recommend faculty for promotion and for emeritus status, and to recommend the awarding of degrees. The Senate functions mainly in an advisory capacity to the Chancellor.
What else can the Senate do?
The Senate may propose new (or changes in) policy on grading, drop/add deadlines, classroom scheduling, benefits, women’s concerns, GLBT concerns, diversity concerns, tenure, academic freedom, computing services, athletics, the library, academic research, matters of student life. All such proposals are advisory, and must be concurred in by the Chancellor.
Where can I find information on the committees?
Each committee has a page within the University Senate web site. You could also contact the committee chair to find out what items the committee might be working on.
What is the Agenda Committee’s role?
The Agenda Committee sets the Senate agenda, guides the standing committees and keeps the Senate’s work on track. It populates all other Senate committees, refers matters to appropriate committees for review and report, and works toward implementing the resolutions and recommendations of the full Senate. The Agenda Committee is empowered to convene search committees or ad hoc committees when needed, and appoints a committee to evaluate the Chancellor as well as the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs every five years.
What is the procedure at Senate meetings?
The Agenda Committee Chair presides at Senate meetings, and conducts meetings according to guidelines set down in the Senate bylaws, referring to Robert’s Rules of Order when necessary. At the beginning of the meeting the previous meeting’s minutes are approved by acclamation. The chair of the Agenda Committee gives a report, and reports from other committees follow, according to an agenda which has been distributed beforehand. There is usually a report from the curriculum committee which may include new courses, changes in the curriculum, and new programs.
Who may speak at Senate meetings?
All senators and committee chairs may address the Senate. Non-senators may speak by consent of a majority of the body.
Who may vote at Senate meetings?
Only Senate members may vote at Senate meetings.
Who may be a member of the University Senate?
See the Senate bylaws.
How can I get involved in the University Senate?
Faculty are elected by their colleges; students elected by GSO or SA; staff election every two years; administrators appointed by the Chancellor. Any member of the University community may be a member of a committee if there is a need for their participation.
Where can I find a list of Senate committee chairs?
Committee chairs are listed under “Committees” on the menu bar.