On Wednesday, Jan. 15, the Undergraduate Student Government (USG) held its second meeting of the year, continuing discussions on restructuring its constitution to align with its forward-thinking goals. The constitutional revisions have resulted in one of USG’s longest meetings in recent history. These revisions are expected to be finalized next week, after which they will be voted on by USG members. If approved, the changes will be presented to the student body for a vote, requiring 15% of the student body’s vote to pass.
A significant topic of debate during the meetings has been proposed changes to the Ways and Means (WaM) committee. WaM serves as the bridge between Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) and USG, setting RSOs budgets and processing requests beyond their regular budgets. This funding is often used for start-up budgets and unexpected costs such as purchasing safety gear, club equipment, and covering travel expenses for tournaments, conferences, and field trips.
The proposed WaM changes include adding a Graduate Student Government member to the committee and removing the requirement for E-Board members to be on WaM. College of Business Representative Madison Mattila explained, “The proposed WaM restructure would allow E-Board members to focus on their responsibilities and enable other representatives and members of the student assembly to participate more actively in one of USG’s missions.”
In recent WaM updates, the newly established Michigan Tech Lake Superior Surf Club successfully received funding to purchase wetsuits for surfing in Lake Superior’s frigid winter waters. Additionally, WaM recommended, and USG approved, funding for Ridge Roamers, Michigan Tech’s premier climbing club. This funding will be used to purchase a full set of ice climbing shoes in various sizes, ensuring accessibility for all members.
USG has sworn in three new members: Ellie Rigling as the College of Forest Resources and Environmental Sciences Representative, Connor Skalitzky as a College of Engineering Representative, and Neeve Donnelly as a fourth-year Representative.
USG meetings are open to the public and are held weekly on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Alumni Lounge of the Memorial Union Building. For more information, visit the USG website at usg.mtu.edu or email usg@mtu.edu.
