Special Fees Groups Standing Together

The ASSU Funding Processes have gone through considerable changes in the past year. In particular, Special Fees groups have been affected in their interactions with the Appropriations Committee and the ASSU.

We, the Undersigned, write today to be constructive. To support a change of policy, not to support or disparage politicians.

We understand that we have the power to advocate now - to stand together to outline specific policy actions that will increase the transparency and fairness of the funding process.

We support the following policies:

* Adopt a code of conduct for its elected officials that is modeled on the University's Code of Conduct (http://adminguide.stanford.edu/1.pdf) that affirms that these officials will hold to high ethical standards in the exercise of their duties.



* Overhaul the Financial Officer training process. Work with the office of Student Activities and Leadership (SAL) to provide more holistic training for Financial Officers. Current practices only cover the use of the MyGroups2/CapGroup website.



* Reform the Refund Process. The Refund rate does need to be addressed, but it is unfair for individuals to refund and then use Special Fee group resources. Accountability in the process needs to be increased.



* Investigate the appointment of an ASSU Inspector General/Ombudsperson to provide oversight of the ASSU's governing. Particularly, this office would impartially investigate complaints of unfair treatment by ASSU officials.



* Increase training of ASSU officials themselves. ASSU officials need to understand their roles and the impact their decisions have on student life within the university. Context and leadership training for these students should be provided in conjunction with offices such as the Haas Center and the SAL.



* Release public minutes and records of all ASSU activity as stipulated in the Freedom of Information sections of the ASSU Constitution.