Namaste to YOU, Al Gore

Zoë Camp tells all!

Of course, the night’s main point of interest was the revelation of the Greek Life poll results. But last night’s SGA meeting had other notable moments.

Big Bossy Lady DSpar stopped by the meeting for about an hour to address a number of questions and to give attendees an update on her recent travels. She’s been traveling to Dallas, Houston and Boston  to reach out to alumnae and prospective students. Spar hopes to expand the alumnae clubs and further emphasize their inclusion in the greater Barnard community. Those looking for internships outside of the New York area should stay tuned— according to DSpar, the administration is investigating internship opportunities in Dallas, thanks to alumnae networking. In the spring, DSpar will head to South Africa and South Korea with the hopes of internationalizing the Barnard name and getting more young women interested in the school.

New Barnard Dean Avis Hinkson (A-Hinks!) will start her new job on February 14th (<3), and DSpar is thrilled to have her on board. “The New Dean is wonderful. She’s really Barnard- she loves this place and everyone who talks to her says she’s really excited to be here,” she said. Vice President Denburg will have plenty to do, as well – among the possible ventures she will be heading are expanding the college’s programs in Israel, developing a three-part, multidisciplinary study of the Hudson River, and planning more pre-college programs in areas like architecture and theatre.

Early Decision application rates are way up for the college – anywhere between 30 and 40 percent by current estimates, and, according to DSpar, this year’s pool is very strong. While she is excited by this news concerning the 2015ers, she stressed her vision for alumnae – “the most important thing you can all do is get involved as alumnae the second you walk off this campus” – and her idea that in order to get older alumnae engaged, younger alumnae need to get more involved as well. She also stressed the need for developing more Barnard traditions, and was visibly excited when SGA mentioned the Greek Games’ possible return. “The chariot’s in the basement!” she reminded them.

Students eager to voice their opinion on the proposed smoking ban on Barnard’s campus will have their chance to do so next Monday. In next week’s SGA  email, students will be able to vote on the proposed smoking ban. SGA will take these opinions consideration when they vote on the issue in a few weeks’ time.

And a hearty congratulations to Yoga Inspire, who by unanimous vote was granted the status of a Stage 1 recognized group! Now go and perform Sun Salutations to your heart’s content.