9:02-- Call to Order
Alcohol Discussion with members of the Alcohol Coalition
Discussion led by Bob Kazin (Counseling), Travis Hill (ResLife), and Lisa Magnarelli (Student Activities)
The Counseling Center has collected data about drinking on campus every year since 1998 through a nationally used survey that measures 19 different negative outcomes. The outcomes are fairly equal across class years.Hamilton students drink and drive less than students at other schools. Hamilton is above the national norm by 4 or more percentage points for the number of students who: have been trouble with the police due to alcohol consumption, are concerned that they may have a drinking problem, have grades affected by alcohol use, have been criticized for the amount they drink, get into fights due to their drinking, have hangovers, get sick or vomit, black out, do something they later regret.
The initial question: Is alcohol a problem at Hamilton? And are the negative results more than we can bear?According to Mr. Kazin, there have only been 2 surveys with dramatically different results: 2006: Points system instituted; Drinking and Driving Policy instituted (no one knew the exact year).
Opinions voiced by Representatives
A representative stated that it becomes a problem when students believe that heavy drinking is the norm and feel pressured to drink.
A representative said that the problem is not that there is alcohol on our campus-- it is that students consume unhealthy amounts of it and endanger themselves
A representative stated that the hard alcohol policy creates a pre-gaming problem, and students consume large amounts of alcohol quickly instead of spreading their drinks through the night. Does it push students to extremes?
A representative said that last minute jitney cancellations on weekend nights leads to drinking and driving. Just because they have not gotten caught does not mean that it is not a problem.Possible solution: create an organization of student designated drivers that are on call in case the jitney cancels.
A representative said that personal responsibility needs to enter the conversation, instead of students reacting to the administration or drinking to keep up with friends.
A representative stated that the "work hard, play hard" atmosphere is dangerous because students feel like heavy drinking is the norm, but is it possible to change student perceptions enough to make a difference?
A representative said that judging dangerous drinking based on HCEMS call statistics may not be appropriate. If there is any question, call the EMTs and they will confidentially treat any health concern.
Club Sports Funding Discussion led by Andrew Brodsky (SA Treasurer)
There will be a meeting this week to discuss club sports funding. It will address: how much should club funding be increased, when/should/can it take effect?, what defines a club sport?(Current definition: An athletic organization that competes against other schools, but is not a varsity team), to what extent should club teams be financially responsible for themselves?
There will be a larger discussion about this in 2 weeks.
Commmittee Reports
Food
Pita bread, guacamole and hummus are returning to McEwen
There will be more guacamole in Commons.
Because lunch has been extended until 4 PM, there will not be snack time.
Social Traditions
Planning Friday December 3 at 7 PM, Mens Hockey Team vs. St. Michael's
Submissions for Citrus Bowl t-shirt designs will be accepted until 5 PM tomorrow.
Meeting tomorrow night at 8 PM in the Sadove Sun Porch to pick the t-shirt design. Everyone is welcome!
Facilities
They discussed the new bike system and student recommended changes.If you have any suggestions, questions, comments about the new bike system, please email lzoltick
Culture and Accessibility
The Student Diversity Council had its first meeting on Friday. It is made up of leaders of different groups on campus who will coordinate their groups' events
Student Interests
They met with a NYT Representative about a mass subscription program for Hamilton
They are meeting with the bookstore to discuss Hamilton apparel
The Saranac Brewery Tour will be December 4. Please come!
Technology
New movies should be up after Thanksgiving break.
Elections
The deadline for signature sheets has been extended to Wednesday. Please submit them to Lesley Ryder, mailbox 1673.
Funding
Organization; Amount Requested; Amount Suggested; Resubmit
ACS; 300.00; 0.00; No
French Club; 101.83; 101.83; No
Social Traditions; 2,611.44; 2,611.44; No
Student Interests; 300.00; 300.00; No
Amount Suggested: 3,013.27
Amount Remaining: 17,054.16
Less Suggested: 14,040.89
Announcements
On November 29, the SA meeting discussion will be about Sexual Assault. We invite all members of the Hamilton Community- students, group leaders and faculty, to attend the meeting and join our discussion.
The Jitney is looking for drivers! Anyone interested should email jitney or lmagnare
9:43-- Meeting Adjourned
