ASG passes resolutions supporting the return of the Victory Bell rivalry, improving syllabus transparency and redesigning diplomas

Associated Student Government (ASG) passed a resolution reinstating the historic Victory Bell rivalry between Miami University and the University of Cincinnati (UC), while also passing resolutions requiring earlier access to course syllabi and redesigning university diplomas.

The Senate passed a “Sense of the Senate” resolution supporting efforts to reinstate the annual Battle for the Victory Bell between Miami and UC. Dating back to 1888 as the oldest non-conference rivalry in college football, the series is currently set to conclude in 2026.

Pro Tempore Aiden Bryant proposed returning the game to Yager Stadium, and said the rivalry could increase student engagement at athletic events, especially because the stadium can accommodate large numbers of fans from both schools.

Due to recent low attendance at Miami football games, Bryant said rivalry games draw stronger student turnout and carry greater emotional weight for fans. He added that UC has expressed reluctance to continue the series.

The senate also passed a resolution requiring course syllabi to be available at least one week before the start of term, allowing students to plan for schedules, course content and required materials. The proposal aligns with Ohio law, which mandates syllabi be published at least one day before classes begin.

The senate passed a resolution to redesign Miami diplomas, citing dissatisfaction over the current design’s modernized aesthetic. Senator Quin Ahler said the simplified font and styling undermine the university’s traditional image, which he said conflicts with Miami’s reputation as a public ivy.

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Ahler said a senior poll on diploma designs would not be conducted to prioritize the redesign timeline.

Senators also discussed a technology report, presented by former ASG member Nicholas Barry, analyzing the effects of technology on student attention and content absorption. Barry cited research showing how in-class technology can dramatically reduce academic performance, with students spending 21% to 42% of class time off task.

Senators discussed whether reduced attention is a matter of personal responsibility or the result of persuasive digital design. Senator Barcroft and Senator Makkar emphasized student autonomy in classroom technology use.

Senator Jacob Van Riper and Secretary Kathryn Kleeberger also raised concerns about excessive heat in multiple campus buildings, including Laws Hall, Harrison Hall, Williams Hall and the Marcum Hotel, with some reports of temperatures reaching as high as 95 degrees. Senators cited a possible AC malfunction as the cause.

The senate committed the issue to the Campus Affairs Committee for further review.

Secretary John Day and Senator Ahler discussed dining and campus facilities, including increased prices at vending machines in Shideler Hall and King Library. Senator Nathan Lentz also passed a motion to consider ensuring each academic building has at least one water bottle filling station.

The Senate also introduced voter registration training, outlining legal guidelines for student tabling, including nonpartisan conduct and restrictions on handling registration materials.

ASG will meet again at 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 31, in the Joslin Senate Chambers.

hippekl@miamoh.edu