A bill requiring student representation on the boards of visitors of all public colleges and universities in Virginia gained the approval of the full Senate Tuesday by a 22-17 vote and has sparked discussion among University students.
The bill, which was drafted more than two weeks ago, gives student members the right to sit in, listen and participate in board discussions but prohibits them from voting -- the same privileges the University's student Board member now enjoys.
In the Feb. 1 edition of The Cavalier Daily, University Board member Benjamin Warthen said Board members talk about and address all types of issues in front of student Board members.
Several of these issues include lawsuits, salaries and job evaluations.
The University has had a student Board member representing the student body for over 15 years. Only four other state colleges have student members on their boards.
Several University students, including Robert Schoenvogel, student member to the University's Board, said they feel this new legislation will greatly benefit students across the Commonwealth.
"I obviously think it's beneficial for the University to have a member on the board," Schoenvogel said. "The Board often times deals with issues that have a direct effect on students."
He said there are some issues for which it is vital to have a student participating in the discussions.
"It is a good idea to have a student there, to get a student's perspective," he added.
Christie Amberman, Student Council chief of staff, said she shares similar sentiments with Schoenvogel.
"I am very enthusiastic about the bill passing," Amberman said. "It is a very important consideration to have a perspective from students, who see the problems that elder alumni might not."
Although many students have welcomed the legislation with open arms, the bill has been criticized for invading on the territory of the governor.
That was one of the key arguments that brought about such a close decision in the Senate Committee on Education and Health -- which passed the bill with a close 8-7 vote.
Even after Senate approval, the House of Delegates still needs to approve the bill before it goes in front of Gov. James S. Gilmore III (R) for authorization.
University Rector John P. Ackerly III said while the bill will not directly affect the University, "I don't know why a state college or university wouldn't want to have a student member represent them."
If the bill is approved by the House and the governor, then 13 state college and university boards will require student seats.
"It is a great step forward for Virginia state colleges," Amberman said.
Read More
Honor Committee plans Dorm Talks and finals week initiatives
By Lexie Stadler | 2 days agoIn an effort to enhance student outreach and introduce incoming students to the Honor System, the Committee will reintroduce Dorm Talks in the Fall 2024 semester.
BREAKING: Two fraternities suspended, one terminated after hazing allegations
By Ford McCracken | 2 days agoThe University’s chapter of Pi Kappa Alpha is the founding chapter of the fraternity, which was founded in West Range room 47 in 1868.
From the archives: April 22 – April 28
By Maisy Callahan and Grace Franklin | 2 days agoThose opposed to the Mall feared closing Main St. would create inconvenience and traffic, which would in turn decrease the income made by merchants.
