Special Business
Tuesday, Sept. 22, Student Center for Inclusive Excellence Director Monique Williams addressed questions from members of the College of William and Mary’s Student Assembly about the active Title VI investigation launched by the Department of Justice.
The investigation, started in August, states that the W&M Scholars program and various graduate scholarships are based on “unlawful racial criteria.”
Director of Student Leadership Development Anne Arseneau ’89 MA.Ed ’92 asked Williams about how the Center has supported students amidst the investigation.
Williams stressed the Center’s close community.
“One of the things that I share with students is very simple. You got here for a reason,” Williams said. “Your accolades got you here, your academic integrity got you here, your accomplishments got you here, and that’s what keeps you here.”
Williams concluded her presentation by emphasizing the Center’s growth and efforts.
“The way I look at it, especially as we endure these times, I say we can do hard things, and we’ve done hard things before,” Williams said. “Our office has been around for 52 years.”
Williams specifically mentioned the Kaleidoscope Closet, one of the Center’s resources that offers free access to clothing and accessories for transgender and gender non-conforming students. The Closet is located in the basement of the Sadler Center.
After Williams spoke, the senate confirmed Chloe Jones ’25 MA.Ed. ’27 as an Honor System Advisory Committee representative.
New Business
Sen. Nina Argel ’28 introduced the Art & Hatsuye Ball Act IV. This bill allocates funding for a ball celebrating Asian, Pacific Islander and Middle Eastern students for the spring 2027 semester.
Old Business
The senate passed the Wren Bell Ready Act, sponsored by Sen. Jenny Wang ’29. The bill funds a collaboration between the Cohen Career Center and SA to host a career readiness event. The program will feature resources like free headshots, sessions with career advisors and interview practice.
The Fall Frenzy Act, sponsored by class of 2029 President Daria Lesmerises ’29, also passed. The bill funds a pumpkin carving event that will be held Oct. 28 from 4-6 p.m. in the Crim Dell Meadow.
