CSSA Minutes: January 19, 2003

Board of Directors
Artemio Pimentel, Chair
Sunday, January 19, 2003, 9:00 am – Noon
Aztec Center, Council Chambers

Call to Order 9:10 am.
Roll Call: Bakersfield, Chico, Northridge, Pomona, Sacramento, San Diego, San Francisco, San Marcos, Stanislaus. (Fullerton, Humboldt, Los Angeles, Monterey Bay, Pomona San Bernardino, San José, Sonoma late.)
ACTION ITEM - Approval of the Agenda moved by San Diego, seconded by Chico, with changes: postpone item Working Students Initiative (Executive Committee); under Legislative Affairs, postpone Resolution of No Confidence to February as an information item; under “New Business,” add an item to approve the concept of a long-term fee policy partnership with Assemblymember Manny Diaz. Motion by Stanislaus, seconded by San Diego, to add New Business. Passed. Moved by Chico, seconded by Stanislaus, to add: 1) presentation by Dr. James Kitchen under “Special Presentations,” as well as 2) an information item, a mid-year budget presentation under the Internal Affairs Committee. Passed. Also, items B, International Students’ Bill of Rights, and C, CRENO coalition, on Multicultural Caucus agenda are action items, and the second part of B is being postponed: the resolution is not offered for approval today, but joining the coalition to oppose CRENO is. Chico moved those changes and San Diego seconded them. Passed. The original motion to approve the agenda with changes passed.
Open Forum/Public Comment Period
Eleni Theodorou, Chico, was disappointed at how little interest students showed in the Multicultural Caucus meeting.
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
1. ACTION ITEM – State Net - Approval of the Committee’s decision to go with the cheapest deal, $360/year, was moved by San Diego and seconded by Stanislaus. Passed.
2. ACTION ITEM – Legends of China – Motion to approve staff continuing to research this program and how to fund, San Diego; second, Pomona. This is a China-USA cultural exchange program with an emphasis on students; it would sponsor CSSA student travel to China in 2003. One student from each campus would travel; the cost per person would depend upon which tour, how many cities. Jimmy cautions the board to be cognizant of budget pressures. Susana responded that CSSA cannot fund the travel but could collaborate on fundraising. Someone asked how the program would benefit CSSA: Susana responded that Legends of China is part of a world peace campaign—students would visit a university and participate in cultural exchange. There is a partnership between UC and the Legends of China foundation. There would be no involvement by CSSA in Chinese internal affairs or effecting changes for Chinese students, but there would be an educational exchange. Each ASI would recommend one student. San Diego observed that the idea sounds way too vacationey; why does this need to happen? San Luis Obispo asked where the money would come from for each ASI delegate; Susana responded from fundraising. The motion passed 7 to 6, with 1 abstention.
3. ACTION ITEM – Motion to approve the contract for the June 2003 Conference at the Red Lion Hotel in Eureka, Chico; second, Pomona. Passed. Elections will be held at this conference.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
Dr. James R. Kitchen, Vice President for Student Affairs, San Diego State University. Dr. Kitchen thanked students for being here and noted that San Diego’s student body president is one of brightest he’s ever worked with. It’s hard times right now. Often you hear that the most important people on campus are the faculty, but it’s the students. Students are his passion. We’re always hearing: what is this generation coming to? The answer is they’re great but of course different. Dr. Kitchen urged student leaders to be sure to always have their facts in order and to be proactive for their constituents, because no one else will be. Together with the community colleges and UC, CSSA has a strong voice. It’s got the numbers and can accomplish its goals, but remember that everyone has their own agenda. Action speaks louder than words. “On the plains of hesitation bleach the bones of countless resolutions.”

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, Con’t
1. Information Item – Coalition Against Student Fee Increases - Bruce Wolfe stated there will be an action at CHESS. Last year we were a part of this coalition. We know have the opportunity to be in the center of actions and strategies planned. We could invite high school students. Artemio Pimentel said he doesn’t favor joining. He wants CSSA to focus on the CSU system, to put it first. The issue of student fees is at the heart of the CSU mission. Artemio doesn’t want our mission to be lost.
2. Information Item – Collaboration with California Faculty Association on Student Survey – Artemio stated that he met with Dave Hawkins. CFA is preparing a survey to report on how student fee increases—10%, 20%, 30% increases— will affect students and tying that in with graduation rates. CSSA’s job would be to formulate the questions and distribute the survey. Bruce Wolfe commented that at Friday’s CPEC meeting there was discussion of the fact that there are no studies of what debt students are carrying. Jimmy Reed, Chico, commented it was interesting that we want to collaborate with CFA but not with other students. Jimmy doesn’t favor this approach. Jocelyn Brown, San Marcos, agreed with Jimmy. At her campus a huge parking fee increase has been approved for students, while faculty won’t see any increase. Jen Minnich, Sonoma, said that students want to speak with their own voice; we need to keep this voice separate from faculty. Caitlin Gill, Humboldt, observed that CFA did stand with CSSA in Long Beach on December 16th and have shown backbone on this issue. Danny Vivian agreed with Caitlin. Though we rebuffed them last year they’re with us this year. The data can only help us and the survey is a safe way to rekindle our relationship and see where it goes from there. Artemio stated that the survey will cost about $50,000. Bruce said CFA hasn’t asked for a partnership and we shouldn’t rule out anyone’s offer to help us. Sara Shovraki, Pomona, agreed. Marivic said this is an information item, and we have time to get specific information on the survey. Christy cautioned that CSSA has valuable community partners, but experience teaches we should consider the target. Will adding CFA’s voice to CSSA’s amplify or diminish its voice?
3. Information Item – CSU Lobby Day, March 2003 – Artemio stated that CSSA has never officially been involved with CSU Lobby Day and it’s time we were. Even though it’s a Governmental Affairs’ event, there’s no reason why students can’t be there to lobby on student issues. Laura stated that CSU Lobby Day will be from administration’ perspective. She believes that Artemio is proposing a parallel lobby day. Students should be aware these will be 2 different things.
INITIAL REVIEW BOARD – José Solache distributed Student Trustee search posters to each campus present. The application packet is on CSSA’s homepage, www.csustudents.org. Look for the image from the poster and click on it.
INTERNAL AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
1. ACTION ITEM – Motion to Approve the Portable Electronics Policy, San Diego; second, Northridge. With the change that the word “officer” be substituted for “executive officer” (except when dollar limits are discussed), the Committee offered the policy for approval. Amounts paid for mobile phone monthly charges will not exceed $50 for execs, $25 for special officers. John Brison, San Luis Obispo, recommended tying a few years lifespan to each device. Bruce Wolfe urged CSSA to allow more minutes. Marivic stated the idea is to create policy for years to come, not for a particular time: for unforeseen circumstances, we could make exceptions. Priscilla Ocen, San Diego, noted we’ve spent lots of time on this. ASI officers have stipends; if they exceed them they pay for it and don’t cry about it. Danny Vivian, Long Beach, called the question and was seconded by San Diego. The vote ended debate. The main motion passed.
2. ACTION ITEM – Motion to Approve the Funding Application, San Diego; second, Pomona. The application is available on line (http://www.csustudents.org/about_cssa/about_cssa.shtml click on “Funding Application”) Campuses can apply at CHESS for decision in March. The application is not open to non dues-paying campuses. CHESS, CSU Cares, Retention conference—those would be covered, as well as anything CSSA is involved in. It could be used retroactively, depending on available funds. Passed.
3. Marivic presented a mid-year review of the budget, the text of which is appended to these minutes.
AD HOC COMMITTEE ON CHESS VIII - Ann Marie reminded everyone of the January 21st hotel deadline. The cancellation deadline is Jan. 24th—after that you’ll be charged $100, no exceptions. Please access your registrations online within the next two weeks and add names and titles—otherwise we’ll have “student 1, student 2” nametags. Bruce stated that by tradition CHESS Lobby Day includes a morning rally. Laura said it can be done but politics dictate that students show up for it. Poor showings are why it was discontinued. Also, it’s not been included on the program, so there will have to be effective word of mouth.
LEGISLATIVE AFFAIRS COMMITTEE -
1. Action Item – California Postsecondary Education Commission -Recommendations for a Long-Term Residence Fee Policy – postponed for action at CHESS. Bruce said he was dismayed that this has been on the agenda for 4 meetings and still people haven’t read it, even though it will be the template for a policy on student fee increases. If we don’t take a position, we won’t be a player. Artemio recommends adhering to the committee recommendation. We need to vote on this by CHESS.
2. Information Item – Community College Transfer Entitlement Awards - The CSU Proposal to Reform California Community College Entitlement Awards is the basis for a bill sponsored by the CSU, which will be introduced in the Legislature by the end of January. The bill would make it easier for California Community College students who transfer to the CSU to qualify for Cal Grants. It’s the outline for a bill to be sponsored by CSU’s Office of Governmental Affairs. It removes the age limit of 24 and decreases gpa from 2.4 to 2.0. Both are cost containment issues. Governmental Affairs is under no illusion that this will pass but wanted to raise the issue that CSU students aren’t getting their fair share. It would be great to have our name on this bill to raise awareness of who we are. This will be an action item in February.
UNIVERSITY AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
1. ACTION ITEM – Approve Concept/Theme/Date for Cal State Cares Day
  The concept, theme and date for Cal State Cares Day are proposed for Board approval. Long Beach moved and San Bernardino seconded that the week of April 21-25 be “Cal State Cares” with each campus picking its own theme and deciding on the duration of its event that week.
2. Information Item – Excellence Fees – Danny reported that there was good discussion in committee on these fees, with Jimmy Reed explaining the case being made at Chico, where a vote on excellence fees is pending.
MULTICULTURAL CAUCUS
1. Information Item – Bylaw Changes – There was discussion on changing the voting membership and what constitutes a quorum. No formal changes were made.
2. Action Item – CRENO – Coalition with UCSA. MCC voted to join the coalition but hasn’t yet voted on the resolution. Moved by Chico; seconded by Pomona to join the coalition opposing CRENO. Passed.
Campus Updates
Danny Vivian reported that Long Beach has rethought its referendum for a recreation center in light of student fee increases, so it won’t have one for a while. It has instituted a Beach Pride day: on Tuesdays students are encouraged to wear regalia. ASI is patrolling and making awards. Uwaifo Obanor reported that Pomona is holding its student opportunities initiative (ASI fee referendum) on February 5th and 6th—the proposed increase would increase student services. Also, with regard to campuses’ Academic Senate representation, a list is going around. Pomona needs more representation on its Academic Senate so it can forestall actions like reduction of priority registration and is asking campuses to indicate how many reps they have on their Academic Senate. The Student Union is opening April 2nd. It will have a food court and a 2-floor fitness center, plus a 1000-seat venue. Finally, Pomona will do Lobby Corps training for CHESS. Marivic Tolentino, San Diego, stated CSSA is serious about gathering facts and figures to show the damage cuts will do. She and Priscilla Ocen thanked everyone for coming to San Diego. Carlos Illingworth, Los Angeles, reported his campus has a new video coming out showcasing ASI services. It has begun publishing the ASI Screaming Eagle, a quarterly newsletter. The ASI has a flag dance team. The Screaming Eagle is a school spirit squad, and they are discussing bringing cheerleaders under their ASI. They are also trying to reinstate shuttle services to improve the parking situation. Homecoming, with lots and lots of activities, will be the week of Feb 2nd. Erik Fallis, San Bernardino, said his campus will have a new CSSA rep, Jacqueline Sutton, at the next meeting. Erik has been trying to contact ASI executive directors re year-round operation and funding for a children’s center in summer—campus administration wants this, but it will be hard. Ann Marie, San Bernardino, reported that the State Superintendent of Instruction, Jack O’Connell, had an inaugural ceremony at San Bernardino—it was a great event showcasing their campus, with many students involved. Jocelyn Brown, San Marcos, said that during finals week last semester students were informed that their parking fees would increase to $158/semester the next semester. Caitlin Gill, Humboldt, reported she is now the only CSSA rep. Dave resigned for personal reasons and because his philosophy isn’t entirely in accord with CSSA’s. Caitlin read a letter from Dave explaining his action. He recommends his ASI not replace him, but Caitlin would like to see Ryan Mann appointed. He is a fulltime student and staffs Humboldt’s multicultural center. Their new university president is a breath of fresh air—it’s a huge change. José Solache, Dominguez Hills, said their ASI finally has full staff. A centralized building for all student services will open in June, when the Training Center, which is about 60% complete, will also open.
New Business
1. Action Item – Approve Partnership with Assemblymember Manny Diaz’s Office in Crafting a Long-Range Student Fee Plan. Assemblymember Diaz will draft a long-range fee plan calling for formation of a systemwide budget committee with majority of students and all segments of higher education represented. Artemio isn’t calling upon him to sponsor particular language but to partner CSSA in crafting a bill. Artemio feels this will give CSSA more of a voice. San Francisco moved approval of the collaboration; Fullerton seconded it. San Marcos asked if the bill would come back to us before it’s finalized; Artemio said it would. Bruce said this means that we’ll have a total supporter for our needs, what we want to create. We need to look at this in light of CPEC policy. Bakersfield said it’s good to entertain a policy, but we’re fooling ourselves if we think fees won’t increase. Motion to call the question; San Bernardino objected. Erik Fallis urged CSSA to accept the shared governance portion but avoid anything to do with fee increases. Passed with 1 no vote.
Closing Comments
Bruce stated that Manny Cardoza, Legislative Affairs vice chair, has resigned because he has to focus on academics. When Manny was elected the vote was close between him and Justin Jewell, and Bruce will now appoint Justin as vice chair. Marivic thanked Susana for the Powerpoint presentation on the budget. She stated she has spring dues invoices. Dominguez Hills and Bakersfield have paid the whole year. Fay said MCC hopes to be in the drumming circle at the March powwow in Long Beach. She is looking for MCC archival materials. Please forward anything you have to her. José asked students to distribute the student trustee posters on their campuses. Sara Shovraki stated she noticed a lack of participation at MCC and comments that MCC issues are important to all the campuses. Peter Ucovich, Sacramento, thanked San Diego and Long Beach for recognizing that we don’t have to get bogged down in administration since we have staff. San Bernardino invited CSSA to its Tuesday noon Board meeting, where CSSA dues will be voted on. Artemio and José thanked San Diego.
Motion to adjourn, San Diego; second, Pomona. Adjournment at 11:30 am.