A 44-hour-long meeting of the ASUN Senate will convene at 9 p.m. on March 23. Organized by students, the marathon meeting will symbolically represent the $44 million cut from the University of Nevada, Reno budget since 2009.

The meeting on the plaza of the Joe Crowley Student Union will end at 5 p.m., March 25. Student organizers are planning a series of presentations and discussions to create an informative, educational session that explores topics ranging from current political and budget issues to the role and history of a land-grant university. Speakers will include Nevada System of Higher Education Chancellor Dan Klaich, Nevada Board of Regents member Jason Geddes, University Provost Marc Johnson and several members of the faculty including Eric Herzik, professor and department chair of political science and chair of the Faculty Senate; Donica Mensing, associate professor of journalism; and Elliott Parker, professor and department chair of economics.

“During this 44-hour meeting, we will seek to convey the full potential of (the University of) Nevada,” said Brandon Bishop, speaker of the ASUN Senate. “The overall goal of this event is to promote the importance of education and show that through a balanced investment, we can make Nevada a prosperous community.

“The overall argument will not be about the hardship Nevada is in now, but the potential for a positive future,” he said.

“Student involvement is critical in terms of getting concerns directly in front of legislators and the Governor,” said Herzik.  “The recent student rally in Carson City got the attention of legislators and even the Governor who met with student leaders.  The meeting marathon is another means by which students can continue to press their case for the protection of higher education in Nevada.”

During the meeting, student senators plan to develop a resolution that will be shared with members of the Nevada State Legislature.