The Graduate and Professional Student Senate (GPSS) represents over 15,000 graduate and professional students at the University of Washington. Our Senators represent academic departments as well as non-academic programs and communities. GPSS hosts events and programming, provides opportunities for engagement through internal committees and university-wide liaison positions, and offers funding for academic and professional development.
GPSS Mission
“With integrity, GPSS amplifies the voices and experiences of graduate and professional students at the University of Washington, builds community, and advocates for the eradication of inequities.”
We advocate for the needs and interests of our constituents on campus and at the state and federal levels. We promote professional development and foster a sense of community and connection. We ensure that the University of Washington upholds our shared values by amplifying graduate and professional student voices at all levels of university decision-making. We aspire to create an equitable and inclusive community within all of GPSS.
GPSS Structure
Senators
The Graduate and Professional Student Senate is responsible for identifying and discussing issues affecting the graduate and professional student body at the University of Washington. The Senate elects four officers and all internal GPSS committees, approves the annual budget, votes on resolutions and gives general guidance to the officers and Executive committee on various issues. Each degree-granting department has two Senate seats.
Bylaws
The Bylaws expound on the Constitution by setting out detailed rules of operation, but is subservient to the Constitution if they are in conflict. Amendments to the Bylaws require the approval of a majority of the Senate.
Constitution
GPSS is governed by a Constitution and Bylaws. The Constitution establishes the GPSS and sets down high level rules of operation. Amendments to the Constitution require the approval of two-thirds of the Senate.