THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH
The Legislative Branch, or the Student Association Senate, is one of the largest senates in the State, consisting of academic, at-large, living area, and international senators elected by SUNY Albany students. Senators are responsible for addressing student needs and participating in committees to achieve these objectives.
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The Senate Leadership of the University at Albany Student Association comprises key individuals who guide and manage the Senate's operations and decision-making processes. The Clerk is responsible for documenting the minutes of each meeting. The Secretary organizes these meetings and ensures procedural adherence. The Chair directs the Senate, leading discussions and setting the agenda. The Vice-Chair assists in these tasks and leads in the Chair's absence, helping maintain effective representation of student interests.
Senate Leadership
Living Area Senators
Living Area Senators in the University at Albany Student Association are representatives who advocate for the needs and interests of students residing in the various living complexes on campus and beyond. They address residence-specific concerns to the student government, ensuring that the living conditions and community interests are actively managed.
Academic Senators
Academic Senators at the University at Albany Student Association represent the diverse academic disciplines within the university. These senators are charged with addressing the concerns and advancing the interests of students from various majors. Their advocacy focuses on academic policies, departmental resources, faculty engagement, research opportunities, and curriculum development. By acting as a liaison between the student body and academic departments, they aim to enhance the educational experience and support the academic success of their peers across different fields of study.
Senators-At-Large
A Senator-At-Large in the University at Albany Student Association is an elected student representative tasked with advocating for the general student body. This position involves addressing a wide range of university-wide issues, serving on committees, and acting as a liaison between students and the administration to enhance the overall student experience.
First-Year/International Senators
First Year and International Student Senators at the University at Albany Student Association are responsible for voicing the specific needs and interests of first-year and international student populations. They play a crucial role in facilitating the transition of new students and those from abroad into university life, ensuring that their unique perspectives and challenges are addressed within the student government's agenda. These senators advocate for policies and services that enhance academic support, cultural adjustment, and overall student welfare.
THE COMMITTEES OF THE SENATE
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THE COMMITTEES OF THE SENATE |
Chair Luke Johnson
The Subcommittee on Oversight of Government Operations, famously known as SOGO, is responsible for overseeing the internal operations of the Student Associations outside of the Senate, including in the Judicial and Executive Branches. Further, they are responsibile for enforcing all Student Association Bylaws excluding those that pertain to internal Senate policy.
Chair Trevor Pettit
The Committee on Appropriations hears requests for supplemental funding from the various Student Association-recognized organizations. They also are responsible for reviewing requests of new groups to receive funding for the first time.
Chair Ethan Madappatt
The Executive Committee is made up of the senior officers of Legislative Branch. The Executive Committee meets to discuss major issues within the Senate including preparation of the agenda, scheduling of Student Association Senate committee meetings, and preparation for other Senate functions.
Chair James Cooper
The Committee on Constituent Relations is responsible for making the voices of each and every student at SUNY Albany amplified and heard by each Senator. They also are responsible for helping to organize town halls for each subgroup of senators such as the living area Senators.
Chair Ayomide Ewumi
The Committee on Rules and Administration is the Senate committee focused on internal operations of the Student Association Senate and changes to Student Association policy.
Chair Joleen Chen
The Committee on Ethics is dedicated to upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical behavior within the student body. This committee is responsible for addressing concerns related to the conduct and integrity of student representatives and organizations, ensuring that actions and decisions are aligned with the university's values and standards.
Chair Troy Serao
The Sub-Committee on First-Year Experience is dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition for first-year students into the university community & focuses on understanding the unique needs and challenges of first-year students and works towards creating programs, policies, and initiatives that enhance their academic, social, and personal growth.
Chair Aaron Mattupurath
The Committee on Community Engagement & Outreach is dedicated to bridging and strengthening the ties between the campus community and the broader Albany area. With a passionate commitment to community involvement, the committee diligently works to engage the campus through various community-based initiatives, such as SA Days, and orchestrates a myriad of impactful community service projects.
