CCSC Bureau Chief Adam Kluge makes his weekly appearance, with another riveting update on the sensational, convivial, and political playing field that is the room where it happens.

Greetings all, and happy last full week before the next break. Like many of you, I am currently one brain cell away from a complete absence of proper brain functioning, and have become inarguably reliant on the subpar White Mocha Latte that I order from Blue Java at least twice a day. That said, tonight was another energetic trip to the Satow Room, with CCSC providing me a much-needed boost in serotonin on this chilly Sunday.

Okay, as they say in Mulan, let’s get down to business…

This week’s Columbia College Student Council meeting began as usual, with a variety of updates from the many representatives that make CCSC an absolute picture of democratic success (it is important that I note that CCSC President Patricia Granda-Malaver (CC ’20) was sick tonight, so wishing her a speedy recovery. O captain, my captain). Alright, updates began with University Senator Ramsay Eyre, who announced that the SAC Wellness and Health Committee met for the first time this week, with the focus of looking at the ongoing integrated health center project, as well as the potential expansion of hours at the Dodge Fitness Center.

Academic Affairs representative Zayba Qamar sat in on various meetings pertaining to university programming, related to further work relating the Core and NSOP and other manners. Student Services representative Layla Tabbal will meet with the Columbia Alumni Association this week, in order to discuss a potential board member position for a representative from CCSC. Additionally, organization related to mentoring sessions next semester is currently in the works. Financial Security & First Generation representative Jaine Archambeau will be meeting about dining expansion over academic breaks, while continuing to meet about a Learning Library in Butler Library. Gender and Sexuality representative Kwolanne Felix met with a student who was the victim of a discriminatory act in Furnald earlier this month, focusing heavily upon the way in which information regarding multicultural diversity is discussed on the campus. In doing so, Felix hopes to avoid the proliferation of further misinformation on campus. Felix will also be meeting with CCSC VP of Policy Henry Feldman (CC ’21) about the ongoing work of the Mental Health Task Force.

International Students representative Joon Baek spoke about efforts to reach out to international student groups on campus, regarding the additional cost that is required of international students to find employment opportunities within the greater Columbia community. Student Services representative Aaron Hibshoosh is currently attempting to set up a meeting regarding the accessibility of medical leave to those students requiring time away from campus.

Okay, onto the world of student council leaders (woot)…

Senior Class President James Ritchie spoke about the success of recent events in conjunction with the Housing Equity Project, as well as the potential deliverance of warm messages to be given out during reading week. Junior Class President Riley Swain also spoke about the success of a recent clothing event, in which the Junior class worked with Columbia EcoReps on a clothing drive. Swain also spoke about potential postcard writing events and giveaways for the holiday season. Class of 2022 President Andy Baran explained that the Sophomore class is also actively working on potential Thanksgiving activities, likely in the form of a Thank You Gram-esque offering. Class of 2023 President Elle Harris (who, I might add, has been a wonderful new addition to the Council) gave an update on the class’s ongoing Candy Gram initiative, which NEEDS MORE PEOPLE TO PARTICIPATE! Seriously, all proceeds go towards providing LitHum books for low income students (yes, you can donate yours too)!

In the world of the CCSC Executive Board, VP of Policy Henry Feldman (CC ’21) spoke about updates with the Barnes and Noble initiative, as well as the likelihood of a CCSC constitutional review being held on December 8th. Reach out to the E-Board with any suggestions! VP of Finance Sarah Radway (CC ’21) gave updates on different apps pertaining to student life. VP of Campus Life Jesus Guerra Ocampo (CC ’20) spoke about the ongoing planning of the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which will take place on Thursday, December 5th at 7 PM. There will be a cappella groups singing, hot cider and donuts, as well as a long tee shirt giveaway (starting at 5:30)! Reach out if you want to volunteer! CCSC will also be co-sponsoring an event with Women of Color in Pre-Law, which will concern financial aid resources on 11/18. There will also be an event related to social networking in Earl Hall on 11/19. If interested, feel free to reach out to friends or CCSC representatives! Finally, CCSC VP of Communications Blessing Utomi (CC ’22) also spoke about the ongoing work to create accessible office hours for each representative, so keep an eye on the CCSC website for this information!

In other agenda items:

  • Elections are coming up regarding two new members for the CCSC Class of 2021 Council (this will be held on December 8th, at the last CCSC meeting of the semester)
  • There will be a workshop held from 10 AM – 2 PM on November 21st in Barnard Hall, with a Gwich’in jeweler who will speak about her art, in honor of Native American Heritage Month (volunteers needed)

As always, there was more information than I provide here, but the meeting was short this week, and CCSC (or myself) is always available through email! Okay, onto my binging of the new season of The Crown… until next time!