UAF Student Government (ASUAF) Meeting Highlights: Dining, Study Spaces, and Travel Funding

By Amber McCain

At its weekly meeting on Sept. 10, the ASUAF Senate focused on several issues impacting students, from campus dining and study spaces to travel funding and course evaluations.

Senators shared updates on their continued collaboration with the Food for Thought Committee, a committee within ASUAF that aims to improve campus dining in collaboration with UAF’s dining services, Chartwells. They also highlighted upcoming events, including a trivia night co-hosted with the Student Activities Office and a winter dance being planned in partnership with the Honors Student Advisory Council.

Travel funding remains a concern as ASUAF revises its application process, which is expected to launch soon. Students traveling in October may still qualify for retroactive funding if they book through UAF Travel Services. While applications are typically required three to four weeks in advance, exceptions may be made in special cases.

The Senate is also working to improve academic resources. Members discussed expanding 24-hour and upper-campus study spaces in partnership with UAF’s Student Success Center. Dorms like Moore and Bartlett were noted as lacking quiet, accessible areas for students to study.

The timing of end-of-course evaluations was another topic of debate. Some students advocated for making evaluations available after finals to reduce stress and encourage more thoughtful responses. However, concerns were raised about possible bias if grades are posted before evaluations are submitted. One proposed solution is a brief “grade blackout” period, where grades are temporarily hidden until evaluations close. To explore a balanced solution, the Senate will have the External Affairs Committee research the issue and consider drafting a resolution.

Lastly, the Senate postponed its internal orientation to allow more new members to attend.

ASUAF Senate meetings are held every Wednesday from 5:15 to 6:45 p.m. and are open to the public. Students are encouraged to attend or get involved. With three open seats, those interested can go to https://www.uaf.edu/asuaf/ to learn more. No experience needed, any student can join.