Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Government, University Senate, and the Board of Trustees each represent different aspects of the campus community
Michigan Technological University’s system of shared governance includes three representative bodies that advocate for different groups within the campus community: the Undergraduate Student Government (USG), the Graduate Student Government (GSG), and the University Senate.
USG serves as the representative body for Michigan Tech’s undergraduate population, supporting more than 6,000 students across campus. USG works closely with student organizations, manages funding through the Student Activity Fee (SAF), and provides financial support to more than 280 registered student organizations each year. In addition to funding groups and events, USG representatives serve on university committees to ensure undergraduate perspectives are included in decisions that affect student life, campus policies, and traditions. According to USG President Ford Schoonover, “As your student government, we are here to represent your voice, answer your questions, and help make your experience at Tech the best it can be… We are also excited to invite first-years and those living in the residence halls to consider running for a representative position!” First-year and residential representatives will be elected in the coming weeks; other representatives were elected for their terms the previous semester.
Graduate students are represented through GSG, a student organization that acts as a liaison between graduate students and university administration. GSG president Sam Jensen said, “The Graduate Student Government is excited to welcome both returning and first-year students to MTU! We are here to answer any and all questions about grad student life as the semester progresses. Keep an eye out for GSG’s biweekly newsletter for more info on upcoming social events, professional development seminars, and more!” GSG focuses on supporting the intellectual, professional, and social development of graduate students while advocating for their interests within the broader university structure. Representatives are typically elected within their academic departments and bring concerns and feedback from graduate students to the governing body. Through committee leadership and officer roles, GSG members participate in discussions that shape graduate student experiences at Michigan Tech.
Faculty and professional staff participate in governance through the Michigan Tech University Senate. Established in 1958, the Senate serves as the primary representative body for academic and research faculty and professional staff. The Senate is responsible for reviewing and establishing academic policies and procedures. It also reviews and makes recommendations on a variety of university matters, including policies that affect academic programs, administrative procedures, and faculty benefits. All academic departments have their own senators, as well as a few important administrative departments, such as Information Technology. While the faculty Senate does not have any administrative power, their voice has a lot of influence.
The Board of Trustees governs the University as a whole. It is made up of eight members, who are appointed by the Governor of Michigan with the advice of the Faculty Senate. Some of the Board of Trustees responsibilities include deciding on tuition rates, hiring and granting tenure to faculty, determining compensation, financial management, and acquiring and disposing of property.
Together, the Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Government, University Senate, and the Board of Trustees form the university’s shared governance structure, allowing students, faculty, and staff to participate in shaping policies and decisions that affect the Michigan Tech community.
