UA Committees
The Academic Initiatives Committee (AI) is devoted to enacting change within the academic space at Penn. AI is using student insight to work on projects that will have a long-lasting impact. The three themes that the committee is focusing on this year are (a) increasing transparency in academic-related areas; (b) increasing the availability of course policies and information for students; and (c) bolstering the remote learning environment. Don't hesitate to contact AI's Committee Director Ben Woods with any questions or concerns at ai@pennua.org.
The Dining, Housing, and Transit (DHT) Committee works with administration and student groups to address the largest and most tangible infrastructure issues at Penn. In particular, this committee worked closely with Business Services to expand the use of dining swipes, improve sustainability initiatives in the dining halls, and increase the value of dining plans overall. DHT also worked with Housing representatives to create new living communities and address specific issues (amenities, sanitation, etc.) from students living on-campus. Reach out to Aidan DaSilva with questions and suggestions at dht@pennua.org.
The Equity and Inclusion Committee (EI) addresses the needs of mis- and underrepresented groups in the Penn and greater Philadelphia community. This committee works closely with constituents like the first-generation low-income community, the 7B minority coalition, and relevant administrators to identify and eliminate the barriers that impede students from getting the most out of their Penn experiences. Projects are often related to accessibility, affordability, and sensitivity. Reach out to Pierce Haider at ei@pennua.org with questions and suggestions.
The Community Engagement and Sustainability Committee (CES) focuses on Penn’s footprint in the West Philadelphia community and the campus’ environmental footprint. This committee is more outward-facing in purview and prioritizes initiatives that promote social responsibility and foster good relations with community impact-oriented student groups. Reach out to Alexza Zaragoza at ces@pennua.org with questions and suggestions.
The Communications Committee works to strengthen the UA’s visibility, reach, and student engagement, as well as share pertinent information about the university to the UA’s constituents. Through social media, press releases, newsletters, and direct outreach, Comms uses communication as a tool for connection, clarity, and impact. For questions regarding communications, please reach out to Taya Allardice at communications@pennua.org.