Health Services

Dr. Jennifer Schwartz, Health Services director, visited Senate to give a brief presentation on how Health Services runs. Schwartz reminded Senate attendees on how to contact Health Services — phone calls and the Patient Gateway are the best place to reach them. For urgent issues after hours, the phone number operates as an answering service, and students may leave a message and receive a response from Newton-Wellesley Hospital, usually within half an hour. Additionally, the deadline to receive an influenza immunization was Nov. 15. Health Services provided clinics on Nov. 10 from 8:00 to 3:30, Nov. 11 from 8:30 to 11:30 and Nov. 15 from 8:00 to 12:00. Students could call to make an appointment beforehand, but walk-ins were permitted if time allowed. Schwartz also addressed the imminent closing of the CVS location on Central Street.

Ombuds Office

Kathryn Bender, the ombudsperson at Wellesley, gave a talk on the role of the Ombuds Office and answered questions from senators. The ombudsperson provides third-party conflict resolution for issues between any College-affiliated people, including students, faculty and staff. Bender is not a mandated reporter, so students with Title IX related issues may go to her without a report being filed. While the ombudsperson only resolves issues between those affiliated with the College, Bender can also provide resources for those with conflicts off campus. 

Old business

Dean Carol Bate confirmed that Café Hoop, El Table and Punch’s Alley had food safety inspections over the past week. None of the three passed on the first try, but inspections will be held again in the near future after issues brought up are resolved. Additionally, a meeting will be held to discuss the placement of new blue lights this week. Finally, Dean Bate addressed concerns about the lack of trash cans around campus; there are not many trash cans around campus because large amounts of trash cans outdoors attract wild animals.