The Associated Students Senate welcomed six new faces to its team Feb. 10.

After a quick summary of member activities since the last meeting, the senate dived into the business of the day, primarily the appointments of new members.

Before a vote could take place, the candidates were asked to explain their reasons for applying to the senate. Some wanted to create awareness in SRJC students about matters that affect them and their communities. Others wanted to make a positive impact on the campuses through the AS and clubs. Candidate  Janet Madero described clubs as being “the heart of the JC”.

The candidates who received the most attention were the applicants for vice president of advocacy: Thor Olsen and Leila Nacouzi.

When decision time came there was a slight stall in the conversation, as the senate seemed reluctant to begin deliberations with the candidates in question present. The candidates themselves broke the awkward pause by volunteering to leave the room. The persons being discussed gone, the senate was able to speak freely of each candidate’s qualifications.

At the time to vote President Paz requested a roll call vote, but learned this method was against AS parliamentary law.  After a quick lesson in senate tradition, the members cast their votes via the customary method. The decision was made just in time, as the candidates had returned.

Olsen was declared the vice president of advocacy and Nacouzi was declared advocacy senator.

Others were voted into the senate as well. These new members include: Eli Egger, vice president of membership and marketing, Melanie Sakskul, vice president of the Petaluma campus, Janet Madero, vice president of organizations Petaluma campus, and Zack Miranda, election coordinator.

The next AS meeting is scheduled for 3-5 p.m. Feb. 24 at the Petaluma campus in the Richard Call Building, room 602.