
The Senate shall serve as the primary legislative and deliberative body of the SGA and shall represent the views of the student body. It shall consider bills, resolutions, & recommendations. It can remove members from office, recognize organizations, and it retains all powers not specifically delegated by the Constitution.
What is the Senate?
The Senate is a group of representatives elected to speak on behalf of its constituents. Outside of six special seats (CSA, Greek Council, GSA, RHA, Shimer, and VanderCook), senators represent their respective academic college (i.e. Armour College of Engineering, etc.). The decisions of the Senate dictate the actions of SGA and influence the actions of the University.
How does the Senate work?
Each Senator chooses a committee in which to become active. These committees, (Academic Affairs, Student Life, Finance, and Public Relations) meet to tackle issues that their constituents bring forth. Then, the committee comes to the Senate with bills and resolutions that resolve these issues. Each Senator votes on these bills and resolution of his constituency every other Tuesday at Senate meetings. Other bodies (i.e. the Judicial Board) will occasionally bring business to the Senate as well.
How do I become a Senator?
First, a student must nominate you before November 7th. Then you go through candidate orientation and begin your campaign. If you win a seat in the election, you join your fellow Senators at the retreat January 20-21.
What do Senators do?
Actively participate in at least one committee of SGA, attend bi-weekly Senate meetings, remain enrolled in your academic college, maintain lines of communication with your constituency, and vote on behalf of the students you represent.
What is the time commitment for Senators?
1 – 4 hours per week, on average. Senate meetings are every other week for less than two hours. Committees meet at varying times with varying frequencies. Also, a Senator may choose to hold office hours or meetings of his own to maintain a relationship with his constituents.
How long is each Senator's term?
A Senator’s term is one year, beginning in the Spring and continuing through the fall of the next academic year.
What are some examples of things the Senate could do?
• Advise selection of new IIT President
• Influence the offerings of the BOG
• Urge the United States Senate to adopt renewable energy legislation
• Drive for more campus residences
• Establish a Vote of No Confidence in a member of the IIT administration
• Propose a new degree plan
• Get the MTCC open 24 hours everyday