Student Senate elections for the 2011-2012 year are just around the corner. There will be 11 on-campus and 19 off-campus seats up for election this year. Here’s a quick run through of what to know if you’re interested. For more information you can go to the Senate website (www.uwec.edu/studentsenate) or stop in their office in 132 Davies Center.

Right Now
Complete petition

The first step of the Student Senate election process is to gain student signatures on a petition for your campaign. These signatures are neither votes nor endorsements. Petitions are available as of March 7 in the Student Senate office, Davies Center 132.

April 4, 11, 18
Attend two Senate meetings

All candidates are expected to attend at least two Student Senate meetings before the election days so they are ready to begin serving as soon as they are elected. The general body meets every Monday at 6 p.m. in the Tamarack Room in Davies Center and they have three meetings left before the election.

April 8
Petitions due

Petitions are due by noon on April 8, but can be turned in any time before then. Once your completed petition is submitted, you become an official candidate — provided you meet the GPA requirement of a 2.0 and are enrolled in at least six credits this semester. The official ballot will be released on April 8.

April 11
Start campaigning

The Monday before the elections, candidates are allowed to post yard signs, bridge banners and table tents, though restrictions do apply. Candidates are not allowed to hang posters in computer labs or the Senate office and must follow all university policies for poster hanging in academic buildings and residence halls.

April 18, 19, 20
Senate elections

Elections are held over three days, the first in Hilltop and Haas Fine Arts and the last two in Davies Center. During voting, candidates are not allowed to campaign within 50 ft. of a polling station. Results will be posted outside the Student Senate office when they’ve been tallied.