A new proposition being discussed by the Student Senate may require campus clubs to fundraise by themselves before receiving grant money.
Due to an increase in clubs on campus and student government revenue remaining the same, the demand for grant money has led to a decline in senate budget. Currently, clubs go through an application process and apply for a club grant at a Student Senate meeting.
According to the club grant criteria, it is then decided whether the club will receive additional revenue to support its needs up to $250 per semester, or $500 in total for the academic year.
“We haven’t come to a final conclusion,” said Student Senate President Geneva Sherman. “But we know something needs to change.”
The new proposal would allow clubs to fundraise, as they would normally, and then apply to the Student Senate to match their revenues. This would encourage clubs to raise higher amounts, while matching would give the additional income they need to build their resources.
“The topic of club grants is currently under discussion by the 2012-2013 Student Senate. The Student Senate is concerned about budget constraints and through these discussions is exploring how best to address the Club Grant needs with limited resources,” says Allison Curtis, associate dean of educational programs.
Sherman also expressed her concern for the decline in their budget. “We [the senate] have significantly less revenue and more expenses.”
Sherman clarified that the new proposal would not eliminate the free grant process. The cap on how much money will be matched by the senate has not been determined. But club grants are considered on a “case-by-case basis,” said Sherman.
Alex Gutierrez, president of the video games club, expressed her concern for an alternative club income. “[Additional support] could get [electrical] outlets working in the club room, which in turn would benefit other clubs. It could also help us with donations for other projects,” such as the Game Fest Tournament later in the year.
A committee within the Student Senate has been created to propose financial solutions to the student government throughout the semester.
