Faculty Letter of Support for a Student-Run Student Union

by Antoinette Maniatty, Rensselaer Alumna, Professor, and President of the Faculty Senate

---

Dear Colleagues,

In recent months there have been several concerning developments that affect the Rensselaer Union, Student Governance, and Student Life at Rensselaer. The attached document addressed to the campus community, prepared by the President of the Union, outlines the recent events and concerns.

The Rensselaer Union is the umbrella organization that sponsors student government and clubs and oversees campus facilities related to student life. Empowered student government and leadership, as embodied in the structure of the Rensselaer Union, has long been a hallmark of Rensselaer (since 1890). Having personally sat in on a meeting of the Student Senate recently, I can attest to the dedication, professionalism, thoroughness, thoughtfulness, openness, and overall excellent governance that our students demonstrate.

I forward the attached document so that we can all be aware of what is happening.

Sincerely,
Antoinette Maniatty
Rensselaer Alumna, Professor, and President of the Faculty Senate