SMU Student Senate released a fall update email to the student body Nov. 9.

Standouts from the email include giving thousands of dollars to student organizations, creating an ad hoc committee to discuss diversity on campus, extending hours in the Arnold Dining Commons next semester, and passing legislation to increase safety in the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports.

“In October, we funded a total of $11,747 to various student organizations that requested funding,” Student Body Secretary James Jang said.

Student Senate also temporarily chartered the SMU Hip Hop Club, Real Estate Club, Young Americans for Freedom, and Coaching for Literacy organizations at SMU.

To increase safety on campus, Senate passed legislation piece S-102-5: A Resolution on Increasing Safety and Awareness in SMU Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports.

Senate believes the creation of the diversity ad hoc committee will help continue conversations to develop understanding between students.

“The ad hoc committee will continue to work on providing tangible changes to combat these issues,” Jang said.

Another success for Student Senate includes extending the hours of Arnold Dining Commons. Next semester, the dining commons will stay open until 9 p.m.

Students wishing to speak to Senate members are encouraged to attend “Scoop on Senate” Nov. 17 from 3-4 p.m. in the Hughes-Trigg Student Center Commons.