WSA talks new website, resolutions

By Kayle Dembowski
Western Herald

Western Michigan University’s Western Student Association had what many would consider a productive evening on Wednesday, with the discussion of the new RSO website and the approval of two resolutions.

The evening started out very lighthearted as WSA decided to switch things up and had members sit in accordance to the category of their favorite animal (mammal, reptile, birds and fish). Holiday music was also played to put WSA members in a jolly mood.

After brief socializing amongst the members, the meeting ensued with a presentation from guest speaker Stephen Fountain, RSO development advisor, about the new and improved website focused on RSOs (http://wmich.collegiatelink.net/). One of the many new developments on the website included an event calendar.

“It’s really good to look at when you’re scheduling so you’re not overbooking events on the same day with other RSOs,” Fountain said.

Students who visit the site can also view upcoming events for RSOs on the newly featured virtual flyer board the website has.

Another feature of the website is the privacy settings that allow RSOs to have control over who may see certain photos and documents.

“It’s really customized to fit the needs of your RSO,” Fountain said.

After Fountain’s presentation, WSA proceeded to discus resolution #1011-03, a resolution in support of adopting a textbook swap program on campus.

The resolution proposed a program which would allow WMU students to post used books, at their own price, and sell directly to other students at WMU. Said transactions would be done through a free, online service, maintained by WSA.

Many WSA members emphasized support for the resolution during discussion.

“I think it will help a lot of students save a lot of money,” Robert Youngs, WSA speaker pro tempore, said.

After discussion, the resolution was approved by consent.

After resolution #1011-03 was passed, WSA preceded to discuss resolution #1011-04, a resolution in support of WMU and RSOs using American-made products, particularly with promotional items that are given to students through different departments and sporting or RSO events.

During discussion, amendments were made to the resolution.

A clause originally in the resolution which stated, “Whereas, those working in China are potentially subject to low wages and lack of appropriate safety standards,” was removed from the original document.

One general reason stated during discussion for why the clause should be (and was stricken) was because it was felt that WSA and WMU had little to no control over the conditions and standards Chinese workers are subjected to.

After the clause was stricken, WSA voted on the resolution where it was then approved by a 41-13 vote.

Short URL: http://www.westernherald.com/?p=22059

Posted by HeraldAdmin on Dec 1 2010. Filed under Breaking, Campus, News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry

Cody Kimball
Web Manager: I'm a Communication Student at WMU, a SCUBA Diver, Boater, Ordained Minister, Notary Public, Web Designer, Film Maker, DJ, and of course a Journalist. Born and raised in Port Huron, MI and a graduate of SC4. http://www.codykimball.com