Student leaders kickoff the semester with renters right’s, a transportation town hall, and an intercollege food drive
From renters rights to better transparency with administrative decisions, Michigan Tech’s Undergraduate Student Government (USG) had its first meeting of the semester with a range of topics including initiatives for student life, student advocacy efforts and proposed changes within the organization.
According to Michigan Tech’s website, the university will hold its annual housing fair Oct. 14 in the East Reading Room of the campus library. During the meeting, a member suggested USG could have a table at the fair to promote their renter’s rights pamphlet. They called it “a perfect opportunity” to highlight the group’s work. The pamphlet is intended to help students better understand their rights as renters and create a more educated and informed student body when it comes to housing. Additionally, they intend for the pamphlet to direct students to relevant laws and resources, though USG emphasizes that it does not constitute legal advice.
On the topic of helping students, USG and the Graduate Student Government (GSG) are working to organize a campus transportation town hall. During the discussion, transportation issues were described as a “hot topic” among students. The town hall proposal, originally suggested by the Dean of Students Kellie Raffaelli, is intended to address campus transportation and to hear student voices. USG members plan to further develop this idea before bringing it to GSG.
Another major topic discussed during the meeting was in regards to transparency. Members of USG noted that they want to better understand how and why administrative decisions are made. USG wants to better communicate to students what they have learned in regards to university administrative decisions, why USG can or cannot influence these decisions, and what efforts members of USG have made in doing so.
In September, the “Sock it to Hunger” food drive will be launching as a competition between Michigan Tech’s five colleges. Whichever college donates the most food will receive a prize that has yet to be announced. Additionally, USG announced they are working on an All-Major career mixer which will be tailored to accommodate majors without dedicated mixer or networking events. It is scheduled for Sep. 28 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. at a location yet to be determined.
In other news, USG announced their role in the formation of the United Michigan Student Association (UMSA). This organization unites 13 public universities and colleges in Michigan and represents over 250,000 students combined. Additionally, USG announced starting its triennial review of the Student Activity Fee (SAF) of $80 for undergraduate students. This makes up a majority of the budget for registered student organizations.
Lastly, USG discussed possible changes to Bylaw No. 9 which gives sole authority to the president when determining tied elections. A discussed benefit of this is speed as the president can swiftly determine results if there were to be a tie. One proposed alternative would let the entire E-board decide. However, some members raised concerns that this could result in a deadlock 2-2 vote.
If you are interested in learning more or getting involved in USG their next meeting will be on Wednesday, Sep. 9 in the MUB Alumni Lounge. USG encourages people to get involved and wants to engage with their community. Additionally, you can find their renter’s rights pamphlet on USG’s website under off-campus housing.
