Daily Sundial

The Associated Students Senate voted unanimously to allocate $30,000 in Grants-In-Aids Jan. 21 to the Athletics Department.

“We can’t say enough how much their financial support means to us,” said Janet Pinneau, assistant athletics director for Student Affairs. “The (Athletics Department) can’t do anything if the students aren’t here.”

The Grants-In-Aids are scholarships, Pinneau said.

Eligible students can receive Grants-In-Aids similar to scholarships.

She said the department does not have an exact figure for how many students are in the athletic scholarship program

“Many of our students are on scholarships,” she said.

During the A.S. meeting Senate members expressed sentiments about the scholarships.

“Athletics is important as any other department,” said Johny Tadros, A.S. chair of External Affairs.

She said the current population of the athletic student body ranges from 425 to 450.

Scholarships can also be shared among athletes, Pinneau said, however not everyone can get one.

James Lischer, junior business major and member of the Men’s volleyball team, was very content with the news.

“I’m happy that we will be getting the money,” saidLischer.

Pinneau said some sports teams do not receive as many scholarships as others.

Lischer said he is only on a partial scholarship.

“We don’t get as many scholarships as Men’s basketball,” Lischer said.

Member of the men’s track and field team, freshmen Awet Hagos also said he came on a partial scholarship.

“I’m on a partial scholarship that’s just for books and tuition,” Hagos said.

The marketing major showed appreciation for the A.S. Senate’s decision.

“It’s good that they recognize our hard work out in the field,” Hagos said. “It’s great that we are being recognized.”

The anticipation of waiting to hear if you are approved on a scholarship can be stressful for some.

Owen Morce, member of the Men’s track and field team, said he believes he is fortunate to be on a scholarship and that he was excited that the athletics program will be receiving money.

“I’m happy because we need it” Morce said. “I come from a rough background. My mom has six kids and we need to eat.”

The amount of $30,000 will be distributed from an unallocated reserve account. In the account, the senate has access to and can utilize funds to provide aid to organizations and student groups. The funds are not directed to just one particular location, said A.S. President Chad Charton.

“We still have money left for other needs,” said Juana Zamora, A.S. chair of the policies committee..

Charton said he was pleased they were able to help the department, which has been struggling financially.

“They continue to face debilitating financial struggles,” Charton said. “The A.S. is very pleased. It is in our good will to continue our supportive relationship with the Intercollegiate Athletics.”

Nia Guleyon can be reached at ng7435@csun.edu.