By CONNIE MORGAN, staff reporter
The Associated Students of CWU Board of Directors met for their weekly meeting last night. The BOD laid the foundation for what to expect this quarter and had good and bad news for the students of CWU.
The BOD welcomed newcomer Jackie Sperlich, who is the newly appointed VP for Academic Affairs. Sperlich was previously the BOD Legislative Liaison and hopes to increase attendance at Student Academic Senate meetings and ensure that the transition between this year’s and next year’s VP is as smooth as possible.
Sperlich stressed the importance of SAS.
“We discuss academic issues and concerns, semester conversion and allocate funds to major related clubs,” Sperlich said.
Executive VP, Clint Wylie hopes to get more student involvement as well, but in committees and councils with open spots going into next year. The Executive VP is responsible for filling spots in over 42 committees, councils and task forces, some with up to seven members.
Getting involved in committees can pay off for students. US Bank is offering a leadership scholarship that will only be available to students in committees and other leadership positions. Those interested in joining a committee can visit the ASCWU website for more information.
Brianne Wood, VP of Legislative Affairs listed off more opportunities for students to get involved and have their voice heard.
Governor Inslee released his budget proposal which included a 3% increase in tuition. A proportion of that tuition will be given back as financial aid to keep higher education accessible to those students who need it. Inslee’s budget is only a proposal at this point and there will be a senate and house budget to follow.
Students can look for the Legislative Affairs department to be tabling in the SURC for an opportunity to email their legislators and encourage them to support the governor’s budget which favors education.
The next BOD meeting will be in SURC 301 next Tuesday at 7 p.m. The primary election for next year’s VP of Academic Affairs and BOD President will be held March 10. None of the other BOD positions will be part of the primary election but will be included in the general election.
