The Student Government Association Meeting

On Thursday November 15, 2012 the senators of the Student Government Association, members of the student body, faculty and staff gathered in the Atkinson Room. The meeting was spearheaded by the Student Government Association president, Jerica Bennett. The meeting was conducted in parliamentary procedure. After taking attendance and discussing old and new business, the floor was waved to April Baer, Project Coordinator of the Wellness Program here at Frostburg State University.

The Student Government Association Senate 2012-2013

 Ms. Baer reported on the impact the smoke-free campus initiative and discussed the result of several surveys taken by the student body. “Results show that fewer students actually smoke than the perceived image” said Ms. Baer. She also discussed the positive attention Frostburg State University has received since enforcing the smoke-free campus initiative. “Frostburg has received state wide recognition for our smoke free efforts” said Ms. Bauer. She then stated that President Gibralter supports this initiative fully and is happy with the results. She discussed the unlikelihood of on-campus smoke facilities, “It would be like taking a major step back and weaken our initiative.” Ms. Baer also clarified the consequences of smoking on-campus. She stated that the first offense results in a warning. The second offense results in a $70 fine and smoke-free related courses. And the third offense could result in possible expulsion from Frostburg State University.

Students from various organizations such as the African Student Association, Alpha Phi Omega and the Frostburg State University cheerleading team were in attendance to request funding for their upcoming events. The African Student Association requested funding for their 3^rd annual Mr. and Mrs. ASA pageant. Senator Whitney Turner asked “how this event would benefit the student body?” A member of the African Student Alliance responded, “It is a way to showcase the talents of the students, educate the general body of the African culture and build new leaders” said Haja Wotorson. Their funding packet was approved and their event took place on Friday, December 1, 2012. It was deemed a successful event according to students, faculty and staff. Up next was the member of Alpha Phi Omega service fraternity. Members of this organization were requesting funding for their convention. This convention takes place every four years. The brothers of Alpha Phi Omega meet and generate new ideas to better their chapter and discuss their accomplishments. The Frostburg chapter has been awarded numerous times for their active chapter accomplishments. Their funding packet was approved as well. The final but most energetic organization was the Frostburg State University cheerleading team. They requested funding to attend their annual competition held in Disney World. They spoke of their priceless opportunity to interact with larger schools such as Florida State University, Rutgers and Penn State. There packet was also approved and the senate as well as student body wished them the best of luck. The meeting concluded shortly after with a bang from President Bennett’s gravel. It was a wonderful experience witnessing the interaction between the students and the senate concerning the allocation of the student activity fees.