What is Student Congress?

Student Congress is comprised of 41 student representatives, both undergraduate and graduate, elected from ten districts. Led by a Speaker, each Congress member belongs to one of three standing committees: Finance, Rules and Judiciary, and Student Affairs. Five members also serve on the Ethics Committee, which is considered a special standing committee.

How does Congress work?

Student Congress members are elected in annual campus elections held every February. Representatives serve for one year. When classes are in session, Congress meets every other Tuesday with committees meeting in the alternate weeks. Summer Student Congress also meets at least twice during summer school.

Student Congress follows the traditional legislative process. Bills, which allocate funds and enact laws, and resolutions, which express an opinion of the Congress are authored by individual members of Student Congress, or by a group of members. In addition, Student Congress representatives write legislation at the request of student organizations or of individual constituents. All legislation goes before committee and then is considered by full Congress. Throughout this process, bills are amended and extensively debated. Bills become law when they pass the Student Congress by the necessary majority and are signed by the Student Body President.

How can I become involved?

Any student may run for a Congress seat in the Spring General Elections. There are also Special Elections throughout the year to fill vacant seats. To find out if there is a Special Election planned soon, contact the Board of Elections. A second way to become involved is by joining the Congressional Staff. If you are interested, stop by the Student Government office (Union 2501) for an application.

How can I learn more?

To find out more about Student Congress, stop by the Congress office located in Suite 2501 of the New Student Union or talk to your representative. Also, all Student Congress meetings are open to the public and are typically held every other Tuesday in Peabody 08 at 7:30 pm.