Graduate Student Senate (GSS) - Case Western Reserve University

Welcome to the Graduate Student Senate

The Graduate Student Senate (GSS) is a vehicle through which the graduate students of Case Western Reserve University can meet, discuss, and take action on relevant administrative, academic, and professional affairs.

Upcoming Events:

General Assembly Meeting May 1

Spring BBQ May 8

Governing Documents: Constitution (html/pdf), Bylaws (pdf), Strategic Plan (pdf)

The Graduate Student Senate (GSS) is the representative body for graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in the School of Graduate Studies at Case Western Reserve University. This classification covers many Masters programs and all Ph.D.-granting programs, but not the professional schools such as the Law School (J.D.) and Medical Schools (M.D.).

The GSS is composed of members from each of the departments of the School of Graduate Studies. Each department selects at least one senator and an alternate to attend our general meetings, held monthly from September to May. Any graduate student is welcome to attend any of our general meetings.

What does the GSS do?

The GSS serves as a voice for graduate student needs and concerns at CWRU. Some of the issues we have recently addressed include:

Clarifying the University's policy on allegations of research misconduct involving graduate students
Voicing graduate student concerns regarding the University's handling of taxation issues
Pressuring the University to address the need for nearby, reasonable daycare services
Working to improve graduate student health insurance and coverage for dependents
Providing information on an alternate health insurance plan designed for graduate students
Notifying the administration of inequities in stipends, and departmental deficiencies in specifying thesis requirements
Working to develop a cohesive bond between students in the graduate and professional schools
Supporting and defending the proposed Women's/Gender Resource Center
Co-sponsoring graduate student orientation activities at the beginning of the school year and a reception for January graduates

In addition, members of the GSS represent graduate students and their concerns on a number of University Committees and Task Forces. Business conducted in these committees has a direct effect on graduate students. Finally, the GSS acts as a clearing house for University information.

Your role in the GSS

Your impact on improving graduate student life at CWRU can be great. Look into our directory and find your senator; if your department doesn't have one become one! Our organization is part of the National Association of Graduate and Professional Students. If you have any questions or wish to raise your opinion on certain issues, contact your department senator or alternate, or contact one of the officers! THIS IS YOUR LIFE, you have a right to talk about it, the GSS has a responsibility to listen to you.

To subscribe to the GSS listserv, go to lists.case.edu and subscribe to gssenate@case.edu.