SGA Speaker of the Senate

The SGA Speaker of the Senate is responsible for convening and empowering the Student Senate, which is a representative and elected arm of student government. 

Responsibilities: 

• Conduct a training session before the first Student Senate meeting to adequately prepare Senators for their senatorial duties.
• Convene and preside over the Senate as an active leader
• Serve as Senate Parliamentarian
• Organize all aspects of the Senate
• Accurately report the business of the Senate
• Facilitate inclusive dialogues between members
• Mediate conflict as necessary
• In the event of a deadlock or tied vote in the Senate, the Speaker of the Senate shall serve as the tie breaking vote.
• Verification of “designated alternate” documentation (written authorization from absent Senator; meets SGA eligibility requirements, member of Senator’s constituency)
• Compile agendas and monthly meeting minutes and submit such minutes to the SGA Chief of Staff to be added to the SGA archives.
• In consultation with the SGA President, establish and dissolve ad hoc committees as the need arises.
• Coordinate with the SGA Chief of Staff in managing the Senate.
• Initiate legislation within the Senate
• Approve the annual budget
• Serve on at least one committee
• Other duties outlined in the By-laws 

Meeting requirements: 

1. Attend all Cabinet meetings every first and third Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm when classes are in session and excluding finals.
2. Attend all Senate meetings every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 8:00 pm when classes are in session and excluding finals.
3. Attend professional development and training at 4:15 pm on Tuesday afternoons.
4. Attend any additional meetings as necessary and assigned.

• Possess strong written and interpersonal skills
• Work well on a diverse team
• Demonstrated ability to be flexible and take initiative
• Strong time management and communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to solve problems and manage conflict

Eligibility Requirements: 

Any full time Grinnell College student shall be eligible for any paid or unpaid SGA position, if they meet all of the following expectations at the time of assuming office and for the duration of their term of office:  

1. Must be in good academic standing.
2. Must be in good conduct standing.
3. Must be in attendance in person on the Grinnell College campus.
4. Must not hold a leadership position with any other Grinnell College student-led entity.