Tag: Congress Updates
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on April 15, 2021
Congress Updates
by W. Cole Patno ’24
Student Congress Representative
On April 6, Student Congress invited Erin Corry, resource coordinator for LGBTQ+ inclusion at Providence College, to speak and answer questions.
Before answering questions, Corry mentioned that Father Kenneth Sicard, O.P., created her position under his administration to foster a more welcoming and nurturing environment.
The first question a member asked was how the Dominican tradition has affected Corry’s work and if there have been any challenges. Corry responded that finding compromise is sometimes a challenge, but the Dominican value of dignity of every person has helped bridge the gap.
Another member asked if Corry could further describe how she plans to unite the Dominican values with the LGBTQ+ community. Corry says that she intends to contextualize church teachings with the history of LGBTQ+ communities. Corry also wants to disband the notion that PC’s club SHEPARD is where LGBTQ+ identities begin and end. She believes that having Dominicans lead queer programming and discussion will help make students feel more comfortable coming out at PC.
Another member asked if there were plans to talk with the faculty to make the classroom more comfortable for members of the LGBTQ+ community, especially when discussing Catholic doctrine. Corry said this is a discussion that is happening presently, and that work is already being done specifically to the Development of Western Civilization curriculum.
A Student Congress member mentioned the difficulty of coming out at PC and how sometimes it does not feel like members of the LGBTQ+ community are part of the Friar Family. Corry responded that there is a way to uphold PC’s values while being inclusive.
Corry then asked Congress members what changes we would like to see regarding LGBTQ+ inclusion at PC. Members responded with answers such as ally and bias training for faculty and Dominican friars on campus, reformation of the guest speaker policy, increased transparency, and the official, full-time hire of someone in the position that Corry is in now.
Student Congress thanks Erin Corry for her time and looks forward to collaborating in the future!
Following Corry’s discussion, four pieces of legislation were introduced. The first piece was about making the Awareness, Education, and Collaboration Committee a standing committee on Congress. The next pushed for Pell Grants to be double the amount that they are currently. Another regarded the relocation of the dean of international student success to the Office of IDEI. The final concerned the consideration of environmentally friendly practices in the construction and renovation of Raymond Dining Hall. These pieces of legislation were voted on at the Student Congress meeting on April 13. The legislation regarding the AEC Committee, Pell Grants, and Raymond Dining Hall were passed. The legislation regarding the relocation of the dean of international student success was tabled.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on February 6, 2020
Congress Updates
by Bridget Reilly
Student Congress Publicity
On Tuesday, February 4, Student Congress welcomed Josef Quirinale, general manager of Sodexo. Quirinale oversees all dining at Providence College and recently helped to make multiple changes to PC’s dining halls in order to meet student needs.
Quirinale gave updates concerning the changes made to Raymond Dining Hall. He stated that changes to the way meat, specifically chicken, is cooked has increased student consumption and Sodexo will continue to evaluate their facilities as students give feedback. Newer options in Ray Dining Hall have also led to students making healthier food choices.
For example, PC students have eaten 30 percent fewer chicken nuggets this semester. Josef Quirinale also informed the members of Congress that there is an on-staff dietician available for all students. Michelle Switach, RDN, is available on-campus four days a week and reachable via email as well (mswitach@providence.edu).
He also mentioned that he is reachable via email (jquirina@providence.edu) to all students regarding dining hall feedback.
Members of Congress gave feedback regarding the new updates to the dining options. One member brought up some issues with the way Take 3 is separated into specific sections, giving students fewer options for meals.
Quirinale also updated Congress on the new training that PC’s Sodexo staff underwent during the break. All staff members and Resident Assistants took part in safety training in order to keep the dining halls and food up to par.
The Board of Multicultural Student Affairs (BMSA) introduced an updated constitution, with changes to language and grammar to increase inclusivity. Members of the congress will vote on the piece next week.
Student Congress meets every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Ruane LL05 and is open to everyone.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on November 21, 2019
Congress Updates
by Thomas Beaton ’22
Student Congress Publicity
On Tuesday, November 5, Student Congress welcomed Joe Stanley, dean of global education. The Center of Global Education has resources to advise students through the study abroad process and offers faculty-led abroad programs.
Dean Stanley mentioned that Global Education has new initiatives including Civ in London and Providence College School of Business (PCSB) in Shanghai. The Civ in London program is currently open to the class of 2023 and the PCSB in Shanghai will be sending its first students in Spring 2020.
Dean Stanley also mentioned that the Center of Global Education is trying to streamline scholarships, provided through Santander Bank, for studying abroad by combining the application process to the study abroad program and the scholarships.
One piece of legislation voted on regarded the Math and Computer Science Club. The club’s goals are to promote career awareness and hold math and computer science themed events, such as a coding competition and a Pi Day event. The club was approved.
On Tuesday, November 12, Student Congress welcomed Gail Dyer, associate vice president of General Counsel. General Counsel provides legal advice and services to administrators with respect to all legal issues affecting the College.
A Student Congress member expressed concern as to what General Counsel does in respect to Title IX and No-Contact Directives. General Counsel advises Title IX coordinators and Student Affairs on Title IX issues and mentioned that legislation at the federal level will change how these cases are treated in the future.
In terms of No-Contact Directives, General Counsel usually does not come across these issues dealt by the Dean of Students Office and the Office of Public Safety.
One piece of legislation was voted on regarding Chess Club. Chess Club’s goals are to teach and play chess among the student body. It was recommended to the club to look into holding a chess tournament open to the community. The club was approved.
On Tuesday, November 19, Student Congress held an open forum for Congress members to raise concerns or ask questions reaching across campus to the executive board and the Office of the Dean of Students.
Concerns were raised regarding whether under Fr. Kenneth Sicard, O.P.’s presidency day-to-day life would be affected. Dean Gaffney felt that little change would be felt by students, however with new leadership, some faculty and staff may see an opportunity for progress.
If any students would like to raise a concern or ask questions, they may email studentfeedback@providence.edu.
Next meeting, Congress will vote on three pieces of legislation. The first is a bill to pass the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). The second is a recommendation regarding a community service opportunity instead of a fine in the Office of Residence Life and the Office of Community Standards. The third is a statement of position in favor of the passing of a highly debated communications minor to be voted on in Faculty Senate on Dec. 4.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on November 21, 2019
Congress Updates
by Thomas Beaton ’22
Student Congress Publicity
On Tuesday, November 5, Student Congress welcomed Joe Stanley, dean of global education. The Center of Global Education has resources to advise students through the study abroad process and offers faculty-led abroad programs.
Dean Stanley mentioned that Global Education has new initiatives including Civ in London and Providence College School of Business (PCSB) in Shanghai. The Civ in London program is currently open to the class of 2023 and the PCSB in Shanghai will be sending its first students in Spring 2020.
Dean Stanley also mentioned that the Center of Global Education is trying to streamline scholarships, provided through Santander Bank, for studying abroad by combining the application process to the study abroad program and the scholarships.
One piece of legislation voted on regarded the Math and Computer Science Club. The club’s goals are to promote career awareness and hold math and computer science themed events, such as a coding competition and a Pi Day event. The club was approved.
On Tuesday, November 12, Student Congress welcomed Gail Dyer, associate vice president of General Counsel. General Counsel provides legal advice and services to administrators with respect to all legal issues affecting the College.
A Student Congress member expressed concern as to what General Counsel does in respect to Title IX and No-Contact Directives. General Counsel advises Title IX coordinators and Student Affairs on Title IX issues and mentioned that legislation at the federal level will change how these cases are treated in the future.
In terms of No-Contact Directives, General Counsel usually does not come across these issues dealt by the Dean of Students Office and the Office of Public Safety.
One piece of legislation was voted on regarding Chess Club. Chess Club’s goals are to teach and play chess among the student body. It was recommended to the club to look into holding a chess tournament open to the community. The club was approved.
On Tuesday, November 19, Student Congress held an open forum for Congress members to raise concerns or ask questions reaching across campus to the executive board and the Office of the Dean of Students.
Concerns were raised regarding whether under Fr. Kenneth Sicard, O.P.’s presidency day-to-day life would be affected. Dean Gaffney felt that little change would be felt by students, however with new leadership, some faculty and staff may see an opportunity for progress.
If any students would like to raise a concern or ask questions, they may email studentfeedback@providence.edu.
Next meeting, Congress will vote on three pieces of legislation. The first is a bill to pass the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). The second is a recommendation regarding a community service opportunity instead of a fine in the Office of Residence Life and the Office of Community Standards. The third is a statement of position in favor of the passing of a highly debated communications minor to be voted on in Faculty Senate on Dec. 4.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on October 31, 2019
Congress Updates
by Thomas Beaton ‘22
Student Congress Publicity
Fr. Brian Shanley, O.P. discussed various topics including the school’s position as compared to other competing schools. It was mentioned that the endowment of the school was lower than other schools. In order to grow the endowment, the school asks for donations and raises tuition, however with the raising of tuition more financial aid will be needed.
Fr. Shanley also discussed that the school’s goal to grow diversity and inclusivity will continue to be goal of the school through the admissions process.
Student Congress also introduced a new bill regarding the dissolution of certain clubs and organizations on campus due to inactivity. The bill will be voted on at the next meeting.
Student Congress meets every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. in Ruane LL05 and is open to everyone.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on October 25, 2018
Congress Updates
by Aine Redington ’20
James Campbell, assistant vice president for student development, and Cheryl Granai, coordinator of outreach and prevention, visited Student Congress for their weekly meeting on Tuesday, October 23.
They shared various statistics about mental health on campus in light of mental health awareness month, including the effects of the “mental health and substance abuse grant awarded by the center for mental health services.”
Campbell and his constituents have traveled to 104 meetings to talk to students about suicide, mental health, and prevention.
There have been 35 outreach and awareness programs, 52 life skills and wellness events, 39 events for students of color, marginalized or at risk.
This grant has also supported various gatekeeper trainings to prepare students on how to look out for their peers. This includes KOGNITO training and Step Up! Bystander training.
Dr. Campbell also discussed a new leader for the “student leave program” that addresses the anxiety of students who take a leave of absence unexpectedly.
A case manager is assigned to provide each student with adequate resources, so they feel comfortable coming back to campus when they are ready.
A member of congress asked how faculty members are trained to help students who struggle with mental health issues, especially if those issues are affecting their academic lives. Dr. Campbell informed the congress of two upcoming meetings where he and Granai plan to meet with department chairs to inform staff of the seriousness of mental health issues and how best to help students who are struggling and may need help.
During general announcements, Congress swore in the sixth student representative of the class of 2022, Julia Karim.
Also, Dean Beverley discussed the Democracy Wall. The Democracy Wall is a black board on the third floor of Feinstein which poses a new question each week. This week, the question is “What is the difference between FREE SPEECH and HATE SPEECH?”
Student Congress encourages everyone to check it out or follow them on Instagram @pcdidwall.
There were two pieces of old business and no new business. Both old pieces of legistlation were proposed clubs: Wine and Cheese Club and International Business Club.
Wine and Cheese Club was introduced as a networking club where potential members would learn about wine and cheese.
Concerns arose from congress members because money allocated from congress can not be used for the purchase of alcohol.
Ultimately, the piece was tabled because of the reservations.
The International Business Club is a club dedicated to preparing students for international markets and how to navigate and network. The piece passed unanimously.
Congress Updates
by thecowl.news on April 27, 2017
Congress Updates
by Tim Sullivan ’17
Congress Publicity Chair
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on March 3, 2017
News
by Tim Sullivan ’17
News Staff
Speaker
On Tuesday, Rafael Zapata, Providence College’s chief diversity officer, spoke to the Congress about Moore Hall’s design for the new Center for Inclusive Excellence. Zapata came to the meeting to hear students’ suggestions about programming and other intentions for the space. He had envisioned a center that included everything from learning and lounging to arts and culture.
The space’s design plan should be finalized by March 17, with the Center being fully operational by fall 2017. Students suggested more performing and visual arts capabilities, as well as a free posting space being placed in the building as well. The Center for Inclusive Excellence will cost roughly $1 million over the next two years and will be primarily funded through fundraising.
Announcements
The finance committee will be meeting after spring break to discuss a recent finance reform initiative concerning PC Prints, phone charging fees, and a readership program charge.
Both the Class of 2018 and the Class of 2019 are well underway in their core programs concerning graduation and class rings.
On Monday, March 27, Congress will be holding a coffeehouse to discuss upcoming elections and how to get involved with the 68th Student Congress.
Old & New Business
Mike Bartels ’18 continued to push his piece through the legislative process this past meeting. The legislation concerned rewording the student handbook to eliminate any vagueness regarding the possession of alcohol paraphernalia.
There was some pushback from Congress members, saying that the legislation will not necessarily accomplish anything specific and seems to be more work for hall directors and the Office of Community Standards. There were also concerns that the Faculty Senate will not appreciate or deem the legislation useful, thus preventing its implementation.
Although some members disagreed with Bartels, others found the potential rewording useful for students. Bartels stated that the language can be revised as time passes and as the Office of Community Standards sees fit.
The legislation passed with 21 votes in the affirmative, 18 votes in the negative, and four members abstaining due to absence.
New business was introduced this week, with the Sustainable Development Club presenting itself to the Congress. The club aims to link sustainable environmental practices with economics and business methods learned at the College. The club was well received by the student body and will be voted on at the next general meeting.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on February 17, 2017
News
by Tim Sullivan ’17
Student Congress Publicity Chair
Speaker
Congress welcomed Jennifer Dorn ’18, campus coordinator for Teach for America (TFA). Dorn was lucky enough to join the TFA team to help recruit PC’s best and brightest aspiring teachers.
The program requires participants to commit two years after college to teach students in impoverished school districts where 80 percent of students do not go on to attend college. Along with full benefits, teachers are given extensive cultural agility training and proper course certification instruction.
Students of all majors are encouraged to get involved, as they believe a core of diverse teachers leads to success in the classroom. For students who are interested, please contact jdorn@friars.providence.edu by March 3.
Announcements
This coming Friday, several members of the 67th will be attending a lunch with Father Shanley, O.P., to discuss many topics; from the upcoming Black & White Ball to the recent diversity initiatives PC has undertaken.
The Class of 2017 will be holding their “117 Nights ’Till Graduation” event on Feb. 24, with tickets being sold at $5 and semi-formal dress encouraged. Sophomores were encouraged to join the SRW Core, and all those who are interested should contact Caroline Cook ’19, as soon as possible.
Old & New Business
Publicity member Sabrina Guilbeault ’18 continued to work on her New Student Coupon Booklet. Guilbeault shared that PC Card Office could not make the coupon booklet accessible via PC ID swipes, but was optimistic it could happen in the near future. The piece was also changed to include not only freshmen, but all new students (transfers included). The legislation was passed.
New Business was introduced this week by Class of 2018 Representative Mike Bartels ’18 in regard to changing the language of the student handbook pertaining to alcohol paraphernalia. Bartel’s goal was to minimize the grey area that currently exists, and hopes that the legislation will lighten up stress and paperwork for both students and residence life. The legislation will be voted on next week.
Next Week
Next week, Fr. Peter Martyr, O.P., will be attending the meeting to continue discussions from his visit last semester. All students are welcome to attend at 5:30 p.m. in Ruane LL05.
Congress Updates
by The Cowl Editor on February 10, 2017
News
Tim Sullivan ’17
Student Publicity Chair
Speaker
Student Congress welcomed Jim Campbell and Courtney Miner to their meeting and discussed the Day One advocacy program and Miner’s recent appointment as Victim Advocacy, Support & Education (V.A.S.E.) coordinator. As V.A.S.E. coordinator, Miner will act as the liaison between Providence College and the Day One program.
Day One is the only sexual assault victim’s support agency in Rhode Island, working in four key departments: advocacy, education, clinical, and human trafficking. Providence College is the first campus in Rhode Island to work with the non-profit organization, which currently works with all police stations in the state.
Miner stressed that her pledge as coordinator is to work closely with Campbell and the College’s revamped Title IX policies, and to make sure that “no call goes unanswered.” When asked what the student body can do to spread the news of these services, Miner stressed the importance of awareness and communication.
To contact Miner (a confidential resource), her direct line is (401)-280-0564. You can also reach her through the Title IX/Day One program at (800)-494-8100.
Announcements
The Sustainable Development group passed the introductory stages of being recognized as an official club and will present to the Congress next Tuesday. If you are interested in getting involved, please contact Nick Hunsaker at nhunsake@friars.providence.edu.
New Business
New business was also introduced by Publicity member, Sabrina Guilbeault ’18, regarding a coupon book for freshmen. The booklet will allow freshmen to attend free events on campus such as theatre shows or enjoy a free smoothie from Alumni Hall Food Court. This booklet will immerse PC freshmen in Friartown culture and was well received by the Congress.
Next Week
Next week, Fr. Peter Martyr, O.P., will be attending the meeting to continue discussions from his visit last semester. All students are welcome to attend at 5:30 p.m. in Ruane LL05.