What is Student Congress?

In 1969 the University Regents recognized the need for a stronger student government to protect students' rights from the school administration. To that end, the Regents created the UOSA Legislature which is now divided among Undergraduate Student Congress and Graduate Student Senate. Still today we have many powers - both implicit and explicit - that enable us to work with the administration for students. Currently, we are a truly representative body having 48 members elected from districts across campus. Districts are determined by major and college and representatives are elected for a one year term.

What does Student Congress do for me?

Student Congress consists of six committees that each focus on improving the lives of students.

• Academic Affairs - This is the committee that addresses academic issues that affect the university. They strive to improve the academic quality of the university. Recently, this committee led the fight against the plus/minus grading system.
• Congressional Administration An organization can only be effective if it runs efficiently and smoothly. This committee ensures that we operate according to our laws and creates new ways of smoothly operating within the system.
• External Affairs - This committee addresses all issues that affect students outside of campus. They have been involved in fighting the genocide in Darfur and recently got "Blue Lights" installed in the Greek areas.
• Problems and Projects - Every student has an idea of something they would like to see changed on this campus. This is the committee that turns those ideas into reality. Most recently, they accomplished a huge success in turning campus more eco-friendly.
• Public Relations - In order to be an effective government, it is important that we publicize what we can do and generate support for our missions. This committee is in charge of organizing, planning, and executing such efforts.
• Ways and Means - Every year, Student Congress is entrusted with about 600,000 dollars to appropriate to other student organizations. This committee interviews and appropriates these funds to the over 300 organizations on campus.

How can I Get Involved?

Our general meetings are open to anyone and are held every Tuesday at 7pm in Adams Hall, room 150. Forms to participate in the general election will probably be due October 18, 2007 for the election on November 6-7, 2007. This form is available in the Conoco Student Leadership Wing in the Oklahoma Memorial Union, Suite 181.