The Inauguration for the Student Government Association was held Tuesday, Sept. 20, in the Laclede Park.

The ceremony was dedicated to the memory of Dr. George Wendel, who died in May. SGA’s annual Civic Leadership Award is named after Wendel.

The award is presented to the individual at Saint Louis University who best embodies a firm commitment to civic leadership and communal values.

Phil Lyons, Director of Student Life and SGA Moderator, recited the SGA oath of office, which calls on senators and vice presidents to “serve the students in accordance with the University’s Jesuit, Catholic mission.”

“Leadership is an internal characteristic, and its potential and impact can only be realized when the individual person decides to unleash its powers,” said SGA President Jay Perry.

“Leadership is demonstrated through actions and the spoken word,” he added.

In his inaugural address, Perry referred to a recent student survey that noted that more than 75 percent of the students had never attended an SGA meeting and were not even aware of who their elected senators were.

“This will stop, here and now,” Perry said. “From this day forward, all individuals will know the name of this body, all in our community will know the names of our senate officers, and all will know about the business we carry out on a day-to-day basis.”

University President Father Biondi, S.J. said, “I see a new spirit under Jay Perry, one which is a breath of fresh air.”

“Things are coming together,” Biondi said. “The deans and SGA are working together which is very positive.”

“It’s more of hands-on experience this year, with Jay,” according to Biondi.

Chris Coleman, senator of Notre Dame Hall, said SGA President Jay Perry’s speech was very good.

“It energized the general assembly and gives us the courage not to back down,” Coleman said.

Dan Schneidermeier, senator of Public Service, said the event was “a nice occasion to recommit ourselves for the start of another year.”

“Jay’s issue is that we should committee ourselves entirely,” Schneidermeier said. “This is the beginning of a good year.”