Student Senate unanimously passed a resolution last night encouraging students to volunteer for more community service amid budget cuts to other state organizations and a rising need around Athens.
The resolution called on the senate to acknowledge the sacrifices others made to ensure the affordability of higher education for Ohioans. It praises Gov. Ted Strickland's protection of higher education in Ohio and his tuition freeze, said Bailey Miles, senator for Academic Affairs and the primary sponsor of the bill.
I think what Strickland is doing with the state budget is great
but students should be aware that there will be cuts for other state organizations Miles said.
The resolution also acknowledged the departments of Development, Mental Health, and Youth Services, all of which saw funding cuts from the state while higher education was largely spared.
It's not too much for students to give back to the community especially in southeast Ohio where there is so much need
Miles said.
Ted Hamilton, senator for the college of Arts and Sciences, emphasized that southeastern Ohio needs volunteers more than most of the state because of a higher instance of residents living below the poverty line.
A little effort can make a humongous difference to others
Hamilton said. We hope to remind the university that we're part of a community; we need to help out wherever we can.
Miles said he plans to publicize the resolution to encourage students to volunteer. He listed upcoming activities, such as Athens Beatification Day and projects run by OU's Office of Community Service as chances for students to volunteer.
He added that he will be writing a letter to the editor of The Post and suggesting that the senate assist the Office of Community Service with its marketing projects. The senate has not decided on other ways to promote the bill.
I just want students to be aware of the flip side of the benefit's they're getting
Miles said.
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Tristan Navera
