"We would like to involve students more in the functioning of the Academic Senate," says its new chair, Petra Dvořáková

Dr. Petra Dvořáková took over the leadership of the Academic Senate of ECON MUNI this year after her predecessor, Dagmar Vágnerová Linnertová, became the Head of the Department of Finance. Although she has only been in office for a short time and will have to defend her position in new elections this autumn, she already has ideas on how the Senate's activities could further develop.

She sees an opportunity primarily in motivating faculty students to express their perspectives on issues discussed by the Senate. "In the Senate, students not only learn about important matters being addressed at the faculty, such as the budget in recent discussions, but they can also ask for details or present their views and proposals through individual senators," says Petra Dvořáková. "One area where their expertise would certainly be beneficial is the discussion on the structure and development of courses in follow-up master’s programs," she adds.

But how can students be engaged when they already have a packed schedule with classes, often work, and have little time left for additional activities and roles?

"It’s always important to realize that having information from the source is valuable, and in terms of the faculty’s direction, that source is the Academic Senate. There, you gain an understanding of the faculty’s strategic plan, hear updates directly from the dean, and also have the opportunity to influence what happens here. Moreover, students don’t have to just wait for the topics being discussed – they can bring their own issues to the Senate, whether related to studies or other aspects of faculty life. Some past improvements, such as the waste-sorting system at ECON MUNI, made it onto the agenda precisely through the Academic Senate."

The new chair is well acquainted with student life at ECON MUNI, as she is a graduate of the faculty and has built most of her career within ECON MUNI. As a mother of two who resumed her scientific work after parental leave, she is familiar with topics such as gender equality in academia and diversity. "It would be great to see greater representation of women in the Academic Senate," she says with a smile, encouraging her colleagues and female students.

We wish the new chair much success in her role and in achieving her priorities.