Senator Spotlight March 2021
Category
Senator Spotlight
This Month's Senator Spotlight is on Vikas Garg
What unit do you represent? Science and Mathematics, College of Integrative Sciences and Arts at ASU Polytechnic.
How many years have you served in the Senate? This is my fourth year in the Senate.
How many years have you been employed at ASU? I have been employed with ASU for 10 years.
What other institutions have you taught at before coming to ASU? I started my teaching career at ASU and have not taught at any other institution.
What is your research and/or creative activities focus? Chemical education, organic synthesis and medicinal chemistry.
Why did you decide to get involved with the Senate? I was nominated by my colleagues. I thought it would be an invaluable experience to gain insight and contribute to the functioning of our vast and complex organization.
Describe what you have learned (or hope to learn/takeaway) during your time in the Senate? I have learned the importance of faculty input in making decisions about different aspects and issues related to ASU community. Senate members and administrators across multiple disciplines effectively collaborate and share ideas for the betterment of university.
What committees have you participated in, or would like to participate in and what were you able to (or hope to) accomplish? I have been involved with University Senate Facilities Committee. For past few years, we were able to recommend solutions related to dark zones, lactation rooms and general maintenance of restrooms and classrooms across different campuses. We hope to discuss and solve more issues, especially pertinent to parking and office spaces in this upcoming year.
What would you say to your peers who might be considering accepting a nomination or nominating himself or herself for a position in the University Senate? I would highly encourage my colleagues to join and experience the functioning of Senate. You will be able to learn the ins and outs of shared governance. More importantly, you will have an opportunity to make a change as you have a voice in decision making process.