By: Nawal Samdani
Staff-Writer
Recently, the Student Government Association (SGA) met to discuss funding requests and reports.
History Club representatives Kevin Price and William Heights requested $400 for the club’s trip to the Tippecanoe History Museum. The cost of this trip would cover the travel expenses and museum entry. SGA approved to fund up to $400 for the History Club.
On Sept. 22, American Democracy Project (ADP) requested $6,000 to send four students to Washington D.C. Rudy Yakym, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives representing Indiana’s 2nd Congressional District, invited ADP to his office. This trip would further educate attendees on congressional politics with knowledge they will pass along to the student body as well as build connections with lawmakers. This funding request would cover the cost of hotel rooms, food, transportation and airfare to Virginia. After a long discussion and multiple failed motions, this request was postponed, as senators felt they needed more time to discuss. On Sept. 29, $4,200 was approved for the ADP to visit Washington D.C. However, President Edmonds presented her decision to veto the legislation while admitting she feels comfortable converting a portion of fees, housing and travel.
The SGA was visited by Jay VanderVeen, director of the University Center for Excellence in Teaching, and Diane Economakis, senior lecturer in English, to discuss use of open educational resources. VanderVeen presented the goals of the implementation with the use of open educational resources.
Scott Leeper, an IU South Bend student, presented his mission for better mental health for students. He advocated for student veterans on campus by requesting $1,908.35 to attend a four-day conference for the National Council for Mental Wellbeing (NATCON). This is the largest gathering of post-9/11 student veterans and is a great source of resources for them. Leeper believes that this conference will help veterans feel more included on campus. A motion passed which approved $1,268.05.
