On Wednesday, Jan. 8, the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) held its first meeting of the spring semester. This meeting focused on a set of proposed updates to the organization’s constitution, focused on improving the election process and internal operations. The USG also voted to elect two new members to the positions of second-year Representative and College of Engineering Representative.
The draft for the updated constitution was written during the constitutional convention by David Reeves, Isobel Bowker, and Ford Schoonover. The constitutional convention was held immediately after finals concluded for the fall semester. Feedback is still being collected from USG members and the student assembly, so the revision process could span across multiple meetings.
Once the discussion is finalized and the changes are passed by the USG, the reforms will require approval from the student assembly and the Michigan Tech Board of Trustees. USG President Cole Pierucki stated the changes are, “most likely to take effect by the 2025-2026 academic school year, based on the current timeline.”
The Student Activity Fee increase, from $60 up to $80, is set to be voted on by the Board of Trustees in Apr. If approved, this would take effect for the 2025-2026 school year.
USG approved the resignation of two members each with a vote of 19-0-1, which were promptly filled. Tina Swenson was sworn in as the Second-year Representative, and Izabella Couch as the College of Engineering Representative each with a vote of 19-0-1.
The meeting also saw the introduction of a new bylaw amendment concerning budget usage and the treasurer’s responsibilities. The amendment, proposed by Reeves, prompted discussions about clarifying language and ensuring best practices.
“Students are always open to voice their concerns,” said Pierucki. USG meetings are held weekly in the Alumni Lounge of the Memorial Union Building starting at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. For more information, visit the USG website at usg.mtu.edu or email usg@mtu.edu.
