Student Government E-mails

Fwd: Wednesday's Meeting Packet 2 messages Wed, Apr 22, 2009 at 8:29 PM

---------- Forwarded message ---------From: Anthony Dunham Date: Wed, Apr 22, 2009 at 2:57 PM Subject: Re: Wednesday's Meeting Packet To: Andrew Woods, Madeline Tomchick, Seth Cutter, Eric Goldstein Cc: Justin Woods, Senate, Executives, Cabinet, Natasha Pereira, Lindsey Anderson, Andrew Toczydlowski, Transition

To the distinguished Executives, Judicial Branch and the members and Speaker of the Fourth Undergraduate Senate In the past few days, we all have seen what seems to be an unfortunate situation unfold before us. Beginning in the Seventeenth Meeting of the Senate, this past Sunday, we all have become engaged in the current state and future of our American University Transportation Organization. We all have various vantage points on a very serious breach of protocol and, even more serious a breach, of student trust some people know more than others, some have more physical information than others, and some are being fed purely off of the hearsay of everyone else. It would seem that in the final week of the current administration and the advent of the next one, the Student Government is in more flux and uncertainty than it seems to have been, all year long. I have read every email, every statement, and have listened to the silently frustrated murmurings and/or exasperated rants. Talks of censure, executive oversight, suspension, and many other things of which I have no knowledge are swirling around the organization in a maelstrom that, from where I sit, threatens to encapsulate even those not even involved in the original epicenter of events. Less than nine hours remain before we convene in a special session, which will ultimately send a message to the incoming administration, Student Activities, the University administration, and most importantly, the Student Body. However, what that message will be is quite unclear. Some believe that the message of the Senate should be that of a willingness to keep the AUTO program a student-run program, sending a strong message on what occurred and the desire of the Senate ensure that this doesn't happen again. Others believe that the message should be that of a stand on the abuse of student funds and the squandering of student trust, declaring that no such misuse of student resources shall be tolerated under "our watch." And others, believe that the message should be that of stronger executive oversight, ensuring that

those that are appointed are guided by the policies and ethics of our organization, and establishing that the Executives have a key role in the good working order of the Student Government. I'm sure there are other messages, mixed messages, and many more items that exist, as well. Yet, with the tension and angry undercurrent that I sense behind this meeting, tonight, the envisioned message (whatever it may be) may not be what comes across to the students, which should be one of our greatest concerns. Should we stand for something and not fall for anything, yes. Should the officers and members of the organization be held accountable to our governing documents and our statutes on SG protocol - I would be a terrible SG Parliamentarian if I did not say yes. However, if all of this is done and the students only see a discombobulated, unnecessarily indignant, and seemingly inefficient body (from the Senate to the Executives) as a result, then it all will be for naught. Therefore, I ask you all today as you prepare for what shall be an...interesting meeting, to say the least. Temper your anger about the current situation with a judicious, logical approach to a lasting solution. Combine your will to improve the organization with the guiding principle of "students first, self second." Along with a mindset of being watchful for present malfeasance and the courage to do what is necessary, may you also bring the foresight and the vision to see what shall be the lasting effects of your decisions, this night. We are all in the same organization, together. What one part does will be reflected on the others - directly and/or indirectly.

Finally, I would ask that you maintain the spirit of organization enshrined in the SG Constitution preamble. The students created this organization as the "[recognized] the need for a united and dedicated voice..." Do not compromise the unity and credibility of this voice in your work, but in all things remember that as an organization, we are to work as one. Best, Anthony Dunham Parliamentarian AU Student Government Mary Graydon Center 262 [redacted] [redacted] From: Andrew Woods Sent: Wednesday, April 22, 2009 1:08 PM To: Madeline Tomchick Cc: Justin Woods ; Senate ; Executives ; Cabinet ; Natasha Pereira ; Lindsey Anderson ; Andrew Toczydlowski ; Transition Subject: Re: Wednesday's Meeting Packet Senate, I would ask in the future for the sake of logic, professionalism,

and credibility that you remove any un-founded accusation when writing bills. Thank you. On Wed, Apr 22, 2009 at 12:40 AM, Madeline Tomchick wrote: > > Good evening (well technically morning) > > In regards to Resolution 08-09-014, it mentions "the 2008-2009 Executivess have done little in the form of providing proper oversight of their cabinets." Well I would like to know how you have any proof of this for the Secretary's Cabinet. There has been no issues with my cabinet, no resignations (except for Bobby Trivett, who left to join the Senate, and was replaced). My two biggest departments, IT and Design have done extraordinary work and I watched over them just fine In fact, they are even nominating again to serve in the same capacity next year. So please give me a reason as to why my cabinet and my position is being blamed. > > Maddie > > On Tue, Apr 21, 2009 at 10:56 PM, Justin Woods wrote: >> >> Good evening all, >> >> I have attached the agenda and legislation for Wednesday's special session. We will be meeting at 11pm in MGC 200, the Gianni Lounge. I have also attached a statement on behalf of the Senate regarding last Sunday's meeting. >> >> Once again, it is important that all senators who can attend actually attend to ensure we reach quorum. If we don't reach quorum, no business can be done. >> >> As always, if you have any questions don't hesitate to email or call. >> >> See you tomorrow! >> >> Justin >> ->> Justin Woods >> Speaker, Undergraduate Senate >> American University >> Mary Graydon Center 262 >> 4400 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. >> [redacted] >> [redacted] >> [redacted] > > > > -> As of May 1st, if you are need reach Madeline Tomchick, please email [redacted]. If you are looking for the Student Government Secretary, email [email protected].

-Andrew Woods Vice President, Undergraduate Student Government

American University Mary Graydon Center 270B 4400 Massachusetts Ave., N.W. [redacted] [redacted] [redacted] Please think twice before printing this e-mail. Remember, paper comes from trees. **Please note that, effective 1 May 2009, Vice President-elect Alex Prescott will assume office. I can still be reached at [redacted]** [Quoted text hidden]