By Jayne Smith
The Student Association Senate approved changes to its financial policy as well as the requests of three clubs — CEO Club, Robotics Club and Nepalese at Plattsburgh — at its meeting Oct. 9.
The only legislation passed at the meeting was the SA’s new finance policy, which updates the senate’s bylaws regarding club budgets and financing approvals. Clubs that collaborate on events will now have the option to combine contract funds within their budgets.
With the new policy, overnight travel expenses will be allocated as a part of club budgets. The limit of $500 per contract with service providers was increased to a $700 maximum, allowing clubs more flexibility in whom they hire for events. Furthermore, the policy expanded the allowed amount for each event from $2,000 to $2,500.
The executive board of the CEO Club requested $1,800 to send nine of its members to the CEO Global Conference, taking place from Oct. 31 to Nov. 3 in Tampa, Florida. The event is an opportunity for students to network with entrepreneurs and business owners.
Senator Janiyah James raised questions about weather conditions in Tampa.
“My only concern is that Florida is currently in a state of emergency, and Tampa is being hit pretty hard by hurricanes,” James said.
The representatives from CEO Club said they do not expect the conference to be canceled. Funding for the conference trip was approved.
Leaders of the Robotics Club requested provisional status for the club. Members explained the club gathers students with an interest in robotics and would host discussions to spread awareness and an increased understanding of the field. After receiving further explanation from members, the body voted to approve the request.
Finally, Krishdeep Bhujel spoke to the senators on behalf of Nepalese at Plattsburgh, requesting $550 for the Dashain Festival. According to Bhujel, the event has in the past been important for Nepalese students, and is an opportunity for other students to learn about
Nepalese culture. The budget amount was approved, concluding the meeting’s club requests.
James, Sean Abarca, Ziare Ferell and Demyan Flores were approved as members of the Clubs & Organizations Affairs Board.
In his report at the meeting’s conclusion, SA Senate Adviser Tyler Hargraves emphasized the importance of meeting attendance and timeliness to the senators.
“Three meetings a year, as long as you can, and once you reach those three meetings, you approach that fourth once, you’re not getting paid anymore,” Hargraves said. “I want to stress that very clearly.”
