With a major shift in the structure and administration at the University of Houston, it appears that more change is imminent at our beloved institution.
The Students' Administration has proved to be no exception, for yet another SA administration has begun as well. Inherent in the mechanics of these changes are modifications not only in perceptions and attitudes, but in objectives that determine the future of UH.
SA has set as one of its primary goals excellence in student representation to our new administration. We ask you, as our bosses, to help us achieve this goal together.
To ensure that your needs and concerns are communicated to the administration, we are in the process of setting up regularly scheduled meetings with a variety of UH officials including Chancellor/President Arthur Smith, Vice President for Student Affairs Elwyn Lee and Dean of Students William Munson.
Our intent in pursuing this endeavor is to ensure that student representation is present at every level and that our opinions are considered in all major decisions involving this campus.
In accordance with this concept, students have been appointed to serve on search committees for the new provost and athletics director as requested by Smith. We hope that actions such as these will be indicative of the level of involvement in the future.
In order to service student problems, SA is investigating the feasibility of a student advocacy service. It would serve as a 24-hour vehicle of complaint for students who encounter difficulties in a variety of areas. A detailed recording of incidents is one of many steps involved in this program, which would provide students a quantified base of data to present to the administration instead of only empirical observations.
The student advocacy service would also supply another avenue for involvement in student government via staffing on a volunteer basis.
In the political arena, SA will remain highly involved in nationwide efforts to secure financial aid for all students. Our participation in the National Association of Students for Higher Education will assist us in this mission through frequent updates of congressional action and what we can do on a local level to improve our legislative relations.
For SA to do an effective job, it is crucial that we tackle these items, and many more, together. We are continually trying to strengthen the ties between the student government and the student body, and that requires a two-way effort on the part of both parties.
SA is exploring ways to raise the visibility of Town Hall meetings in order to increase our accessibility to you. If there is an issue you feel has not been properly addressed, we encourage you to bring forth your concerns without hesitation.
Remember, our doors are always open for you. The SA offices are located in Room 57, University Center Underground, directly behind the Campus Activities office.
You can also call us at 743-5220 or e-mail me directly at njm73186@jetson.uh.edu. I look forward to hearing from you!
Merritt is president of the
34th Students' Association administration.