Share your ideas
Teams and individual Senators take on a number of projects over the course of the year that aim to improve campus for all students. Projects primarily fall into three categories: Physical Improvements, Advocacy, and Events.
Please let us know your ideas and areas you would like to see changed on campus. To connect with us, you can:
- Come by the Senate office next to Peet’s
- DM us on Instagram
- Email senatepres@calvin.edu
Current projects
- Open Letter on Transparency
- Senate Community Engagement Flashmobs
Project resources
Peets-with-Profs
Student Senate is giving students and professors a chance to connect over coffee! Each pair will receive two $5 vouchers to enjoy a drink together at Peet’s Coffee.
Church directory list
Student Senate helped to revamp the church directory list so students can easily find a church to attend and see which ones offer transportation.
Student Internship Database
Student Senate has partnered with the Career Center to create a up-to-date database of student internship opportunities in Grand Rapids and beyond.
Wave Cards
Wave Cards allow students to get around Grand Rapids easily and with a reduced bus fare of only $0.50! Visit ridetherapid.org for numerous resources for navigating Grand Rapids.
Project approval process
Ideation & discovery
1. Idea
From students, senators, or campus needs, via surveys, senatepres@calvin.edu, Peet's office hours, Sweets with Senators.
2. Development
Senator or team develops idea; defines purpose, impact, and plan.
Review & approval
3. Proposal
Create proposal using template — includes timeline, budget, and execution plan.
4. Submission
Submit to VP of Administration — deadline usually Saturday.
5. Presentation
Present at Monday Senate meeting; senators ask questions and raise concerns.
6. Revision
Adjust proposal if needed and present again (#5); changes made only when presenting team and senators agree.
7. Voting
Senators vote — simple majority required; President does not vote.
Execution & closeout
8. Funding
If approved, funded through Senate budget; managed by VP of Administration. If not approved, proposal is not funded.
9. Implementation
Senators execute project; may collaborate with faculty/staff. Follow proposed timeline
10. Completion
Project completed — update project report form.
Project highlights
Picnic tables on Commons Lawn
Firepit on Peet's patio
Open house hours
Fall break
Hekman rain gardens with Earthkeepers
Flags in the Fieldhouse
Knight Bucks and meal swipes at Peet's
