On Feb. 10, Union University virtually held its first senate for the 2021 spring semester on Wednesday, Feb. 17, at 9:30 p.m. Two Senate bills were passed. One was docked for a later time, and one resolution was passed.
The meeting consisted of keeping microphones muted and only using the “yes” or “no” options when voting.
At 9:30 p.m., Savannah Garner called the meeting to order and requested that the old attorney general Daniele Popson install the new officers to the council.
Garner then moved to a confirmation vote on the appointed cabinet.
Nathan Cole was appointed the sergeant of arms, which Senate passed. TriciaClare Griffin was appointed Chaplain, which Senate passed.
Griffin then led the council in a devotional and prayer.
“Every single one of us are supposed to be on this Zoom tonight. You’re not here by accident. And you’re here because the Lord wants to use you as a vessel to exemplify his goodness and remind you of his faithfulness,” said Griffen.
Garner then moved to elect two new positions.
Jaxon Via was nominated and appointed Clerk by Senate. Tad Binkley was nominated and appointed Pro Tempore by Senate.
Student ambassador Steven Williams gave the ambassador report and informed students that if they want a resolution presented in Senate, they can do so by contacting him.
Vice president of finance Hattie Thomasson presented the $2,200 SGA budget and urged students seeking funding for their club to present a bill to Senate.
Junior class vice president Jack Waters proceeded to present a new organization, Bull Moose. He requested that it be recognized by Senate.
Once Bull Moose was approved and recognized by Senate, three bills and one resolution were presented.
The first bill (200-1) requested that $200 be allocated to Club Volleyball for new equipment and jerseys. Senate passed the bill.
The second bill (200-2) requested that $200 be allocated to the Union Tabletop Club to be used for supplies. No senators for this club were present, so the bill was not passed.
The third bill (200-3) requested that $200 be allocated to Zeta Tau Alpha for philanthropy. Senate passed the bill.
The one resolution (200-4) asked that Union University digitize student identification cards for the benefit of institution and its students. This resolution would save both the institution and the students time and money. Senate passed the resolution.
Thomasson concluded the presentation of bills by stating the new budget of $1,800 for the rest of the spring 2021 semester.
Many new faces joined Union Senate, all with the same mission to work in the school’s best interest.
Grant Gammon, Executive President and senior business management major, believes that having new people will help bring a new spirit to Senate.
“We’re currently working on some changes for the Constitution, so I believe having new people will allow for a smooth transition to a new way of doing things,” said Gammon.
