ASUW Board Obstructs Good Governance

Last Thursday the Board of Directors raised objections to a Senate proposed amendment to ASUW governing documents that would prevent Board members from holding voting Senate seats. This change is meant to ensure a common sense separation of powers between the Board and Senate. The Board's objection stems from a belief that such a restriction would sour relations between the two bodies in the future. It is unclear as to why this might happen as this separation is largely carried out in practice now.

The Board's objections to this entirely reasonable and necessary proposal are are petty and obstructionist. It is the responsibility of the Board to facilitate the constant development of a more representative and effective governance structure in ASUW and this is an easy step forward in the process. This publication urges the Board to put obstructionism aside, fully grasp their responsibilities to the organization they lead and pass this amendment without delay.

ASOSU Student Leaders Find Familiar Flaws in ASUW Structure

SEATTLE - On July 20-21 members of the Associated Students of Oregon State University (ASOSU) executive cabinet met with members of the incoming ASUW Board of Directors to build connections and share experiences. Apparently the Oregon State representatives were quickly made aware of the flawed governance structure ASUW currently employs. According to a post in the ASOSU Cabinent's blog:

We learned a lot and made many connections with their method of government at U.W. to our own method of madness. We compared and contrasted what worked and what didn’t in terms of advocating for students. (see full post)

Sources tell me that members of the ASOSU are not happy with how their government works and didn't find much of an improvement at UW. Just more evidence to show that reform is desperately needed in ASUW. Stay tuned for our specific reform proposals.