Whereas, the Graduate and Professional Student Assembly (GPSA) Charter serves as one of two governing documents for the GPSA, which was established by the President of the University pursuant to the authority delegated by the Board of Trustees,
Whereas, the GPSA Charter establishes the purpose of the GPSA, which as per the GPSA Charter Preamble is to “ensure a direct focus for the continued involvement of graduate and professional school students in the governance of non-academic affairs and in the life of the University, as well as to foster an increased sense of community among all constituencies through shared responsibilities”,
Whereas, the GPSA Charter is a living document that must be updated regularly to reflect any and all changes in the GPSA’s procedures, requirements, responsibilities, membership, or any relevant section that impacts the effective operation of the GPSA and its capacity to best engage with and serve the graduate and professional student community,
Whereas, the GPSA Charter was last amended by the GPSA on February 21st, 2023,
Whereas, unclear language and requirements regarding the process of electing GPSA Voting members in §4.05 of the GPSA Charter has inhibited the effective operation of the GPSA Elections Committee and prevented it from best serving the GPSA, prospective candidates for Voting member positions, and all graduate and professional students,
Be it therefore resolved, that the GPSA amends its Charter as per the line edits provided in Appendix 1 to clarify the responsibilities of the Elections Committee and requirements for all elections procedures, including timelines for soliciting candidates, petitioning, and voting, thus increasing the freedom to organize and establish election procedures that best serve and encourage participation from the graduate and professional student community.
Be it further resolved, that the GPSA shall commit to, as needed, reviewing and updating its governing documents in consultation with the Office of Assemblies, the Office of the Dean of Students Leadership, and the Office of the President of the University to best serve the graduate and professional student community.
Be it finally resolved, that the GPSA shall transmit this resolution to the President of Cornell University to seek his approval for recommended amendments to the GPSA Charter.
Respectfully Submitted,
Jason Chobirko
Faculty Advising, Teaching, and Mentorship Awards Committee Chair
