The Senate fulfills two important roles within ASI. First, it is the governing body and management authority of Associated Students, Inc. as an auxiliary organization. Thus, the Senate is responsible for the oversight of ASI's programs, services, and fiscal operations. Secondly, the Senate serves as the voice of the Sonoma State University student body. In this role, SSU students participate in the shared governance process and provide input into all aspects of university life and operations.
Members of the Senate include two Senators from each school (including one
representative from the School of Education, one from Graduate Studies, and two
representatives of the Undeclared Students) and two representatives from Club
Congress. Additionally, the ASI Executive Officers are voting members of the Senate.
A Sonoma State staff member appointed by the University President (Matthew
Lopez-Phillips, Vice President of Student Affairs) and a faculty member representing
the Academic Senate (Chip McAuley, Communication Studies Instructor) serve as
non-voting members. The Senate is advised by the ASI Executive Director (Erik
Dickson) and the Student Government Coordinator (Michael Crump).
During the 2009-2010 academic year, the ASI Senate meets weekly on Tuesdays at 2:30pm in the Sonoma Student Union. Senate meetings are open to the general public and time is reserved at the beginning of each meeting for public comment.