Last week’s UNK Student Government meeting focused on supporting and expanding student organizations. Three new groups were approved and a bill for financial support was discussed.
Student government leaders recognize the impact of student organizations and are committed to continuing their ongoing support.
“These organizations engage students, fuel their passions and contribute to their success, which is why boosting student engagement is a key focus,” said Luke Przymus, speaker of the senate. “I urge our senators to connect with their constituents and speak up for those who feel unheard, using their campus involvement and influence to make a difference.”
The Senate approved three new organizations, expanding opportunities for student involvement on campus. The first, UNK College Republicans, aims to provide a conservative platform for students to engage in political discussions and activities. The group plans to hold events throughout the year and meet monthly in Copeland Hall.
United in Dance, a group focused on traditional dancing, was also approved. With 13 members, it provides a space for students to express themselves and will host events throughout the year.
Lastly, Alpha Psi, a Latino Honor Society, emphasizes core values of culture, intellect and service, aiming to promote these principles through its activities and membership.
Continuing the focus on student involvement, the Senate reviewed President Sam Schroeder’s proposed New Student Organization Investment Act. This act aims to allocate funds from the discretionary portion of the student government budget to new student groups.
“This will help with issues such as recruitment, retention and financial support,” Schroeder said. “If they (student groups) apply for this, it will provide the boost they need to recruit new members and keep students involved, which is a key goal. We aim to empower students and organizations so they can empower themselves and others.”
Senators Jett Simpson and Olivia Lawless proposed revisions to Schroeder’s bill. They suggested that all student organizations be eligible to apply for these grants, aiming to widen access to these funds and enhance retention. Their proposal emphasizes supporting a wide range of groups to maximize impact and engagement across campus.
“While reviewing the New Student Organization Investment Act, the student senators focused on meeting the needs of all student organizations, not just new organizations,” Simpson said. “We want to ensure that the allocated funds are directed towards all student organizations, benefiting more students on our campus.”
Amendments to the bill will be proposed and reviewed at the next meeting to ensure it supports all student organizations effectively and broadens its impact.
Senators from various committees presented their reports to the student government body. Senator Hernan Vargas, from the DEI Committee, highlighted one of Schroeder’s campaign initiatives, improving transportation for international students. The committee is also exploring additional transportation options for UNK Global to better support international students on campus.
“This summer I had several meetings with different organizations about transportation,” Schroeder said. “The main topics were when and how to market it, along with outreach initiatives. Moving forward, we need to discuss funding options and continue our conversations about outreach.”
The Senate held votes for several positions. Laura Velasco was previously interviewed by the Rules and Ethics Committee and approved as the election commissioner. Additionally, the following members were approved and sworn in for the executive cabinet: Emma Nolan as chief of staff, Ally Sedlacek as secretary of community relations, Joey Orellana as secretary of treasury and Genesis Acosta as secretary of organizations and affairs.
Przymus is eager to see how senators will drive further campus improvements.
“We have many experienced senators, which makes managing them easy since they’re independent and knowledgeable,” Przymus said. “I guide them on what I and the executive cabinet want accomplished, but I trust them to handle their tasks independently.”
