Lesbian and gay students moved one step closer to representation on the University Student Advisory Board last night with a presentation on how they would benefit from USAB membership.

Lesbian/Gay Student Alliance Secretary Brian McKernan and member Scott Maslowe read from a prepared statement to the board for 15 minutes before they concluded their discussion by answering questions for about 20 minutes.

"Lesbian and gay students are among the most unrepresented groups within the University administration," Maslowe told USAB. "We feel we need the support of our fellow student leaders before we can expect a productive relationship with the administration."

"Discrimination against lesbians and gays is not currently being discussed by any other student group," McKernan said, explaining why LGSA needs a voice on USAB.

If granted a seat, LGSA will offer USAB input on gay and lesbian student issues, information about gay and lesbian educational programming, and cooperation that will promote understanding and awareness of gay/lesbian issues, Maslowe said.

McKernan and Maslowe told the board that lesbian and gay students make up about 10 percent of the University's student population.

Amy Manderino, Undergraduate Student Government vice president said of LGSA, "We can put these students in a position that, while the administration does not acknowledge their problems, we can give them a direct channel to the administration."

"I thought it was a good presentation," Council of Commonwealth Student Governments Coordinator Tony Bottino said. "If we want to represent minorities, we should look at something more comprehensive (than a USAB seat)."

Bottino, who voted against an LGSA seat on the University Student Executive Council (now USAB) last March, said he is undecided about the vote now. "We'll talk it over at (the CCSG) meeting."

USG President Seth Williams and Senate President Kendall Houk will vote in favor of the LGSA seat, they said.

"I thought their proposal was very professional," Williams said. "We need to give LGSA credibility."

If LGSA secures a seat because of USAB's vote next week, Williams said, "We'll be giving them credibility they should already have."