Committees

Upon becoming a member of the Student Senate, individuals are appointed to one of four legislative committees. After first readings (reading bill summaries) on the Senate floor, legislation is moved to a committee for review—typically a committee whose mission relates most closely to the content of the bill. Committees then discuss the legislation, make amendments, and discharge it back to the floor for second readings. This final step is completed with a favorable, unfavorable, or neutral recommendation from the originating committee. The GAVEL Committee is a separate senate committee, which has select membership and meets outside of the senate working to enact legislation once passed by the senate.

Academic and Administrative Affairs (AAA)

Considers legislation related to the administration, faculty, or academics at the University of Washington. In the past, this committee has reviewed proposals for requirements for excused absences, support of student worker unions, and various testing policies.

Chair: Radcliffe Cushman

Email: asuwssaaa@uw.edu

On-Campus Affairs

Considers legislation related to living on-campus including matters regarding the Residential Communities (HFS, Greek Life, etc.) and other non-academic issues pertaining to Student Life.

Chair: Ruby Santos

Email: asuwsoc@uw.edu

Off-Campus Affairs

Considers legislation related to living off-campus generally including commuter students, public transit, housing prices in the Seattle metro area, and quality of life in the surrounding area.  

Chair: Kathleen Esnaurrizar

Email: asuwssoc@uw.edu

General Affairs

Considers legislation related to a variety of topics that are too niche or too broad to fit within the bounds of other committees. Examples of such issues include sustainability, health & wellness, and contemporary social, political, or economic events.

Chair: Ishaan Verma

Email: asuwssga@uw.edu

Governance and Verification of Enacted Legislation 

Ensures the faithful enactment of Senate (and GPSS upon request) legislation, resolutions, and policies. Tracks and keeps records of all Senate legislation. Acts as the primary student advocacy arm of the ASUW Student Senate.

Chair: Collin Saywers

Email: asuwssvc@uw.edu