The Student Government Association battles with the approval of yet another student organization charter. The bill to approve the Women’s Soccer Club as a new chartered organization at the University raises questions since it is similar to already existing organizations.
“When do we draw the line?” said Chad Kreikemeier, administrative vice-president, evoking debate. “We already have both Division 1 and club volleyball organizations. This will be the same situation for the women’s soccer now.”
Financial Vice President Dane Salazar said that SGA already set the precedent for student organizations when they passed both volleyball organizations last year.
Undergraduate Commuter Senator Brian Suda pointed out that organizations, similar to this one, are beneficial only to the students who participate in them as opposed to student organizations which benefit other members of the University community. While Suda concedes the necessity of both types of organizations, he questions if their charter is necessary: “Can’t they just play soccer?”
Executive Vice President Lauren Gretz said that the Women’s Soccer Club allows students who aren’t good enough for Division 1 to participate in the sport. After much debate, a motion was made to table the bill until next week’s meeting.
During the open forum, Suda commented on the landscaping next to Cook Hall. “I am amazed at how quickly the four-tier fountain and landscaping was completed,” the senator said. “But for six months orange stakes have been behind the BMC mapping a wheel chair ramp.” Suda wonders where are priorities of the University are.
“It’s amazing why students don’t use the BMC when it looks like a swamp behind it,” Suda commented dryly.
In a moving speech during officer reports, SGA President Jay Perry summarized the legislation passed this year. With only four resolutions and one charter, from tonight, Perry asks: “Where is SGA going?”
Perry credits the lack of legislation to the lack of bad things currently occurring at the University. “I think this is our opportunity to get all the projects done we’d like to work on,” Perry said. “There’s always stuff to be done. We need senators to spear-head these issues. Right now, students are not coming to SGA. It’s time we go to them,” said Perry.
Commenting on issues such as safety concerns and cameras in parking lots, Perry assessed, “This is our time; it’s our opportunity. I leave this up to you, the members of SGA.”
Senator Peter Brokish, Arts and Sciences, agreed with Perry’s suggestions. “I hope that we take them to heart,” Brokish said.
In the continuing effort of Gretz and the Nominating Committee, bills were approved to confirm and seat five new members to SGA. Without any questions and debate, all new senators were approved by acclamation.
The new senators are: Joseph M. Chambers, Undergraduate Commuter; Lisa Johnson, Graduate Commuter; Jeffrey Abram Schwartz, Graduate Commuter; James Green, Reinert Hall Senator; and Joseph A. Clever, School of Medicine.
