At the University of Maine Student Government (UMSG) on Oct. 24, two clubs were granted preliminary recognition. Guest speaker Dr. Scott Marzilli spoke of tutoring opportunities for undergraduate students and new business involving funds toward the campus swing set.
Club Maintenance:
The Boxing Club presented UMSG with a proposal to create a campus boxing club. They currently have 14 members but are looking to have their numbers climb to 30 by December. Their first meeting will take place on Friday, Nov. 3rd. The Boxing Club has yet to decide on a location but is in active discussion over determining a meeting space. The vote on recognition passed unanimously.
The Wilson Center came to UMSG to propose the idea of a club that would build a bridge between UMaine and the Wilson Center to boost student involvement and volunteer work. The club’s hopes are to be driven by the vision of its members. A similar club existed in the 1990s but folded in 2003. Many in attendance supported this club’s campaign to retake its place on campus. Vice President Chaplin made it a point to say that there is “No other place on campus I have felt so accepted” and that “it is an incredible organization that I would love to see pass.” The resolution to accord this club with preliminary recognition passed unanimously.
Guest Speaker:
Guest speaker and Associate Provost Dr. Scott Marzilli talked about the positive tutoring services here at UMaine. KNACK is a program that offers tutoring to undergraduate students by any tutor who has obtained a B+ or higher in that course. Students are urged to apply, and pay for tutors is based at $15 an hour. Dr. Marzilli also brought up the “Black Bear Progress Alert,” which is a program used by faculty for freshman students to keep them on track. Faculty use this to not only ensure students are doing well academically but to make sure they can get to the right class, access Brightspace, etc. Students pinged for concern will be contacted via email. For any further information or questions, contact Senator Meredyth Waters.
Executive Reports:
Students have brought up the need to discuss financial support for the new Undergraduate Student Symposium Committee. Students interested in this symposium or who have experience in this field are being urged to join. Committee meetings occur on Fridays at 4 p.m. Contact Joshua Bone for inquiries.
President Michael Delorge brought up the issue of cockroaches and mold on campus, which was brought to his attention by many students. Members of UMSG and the school administration have been made aware of this issue, and the concern will be addressed in future meetings and discussed alongside other concerns raised by students.
Vice President Keegan Tripp discussed creating a food and dining committee as part of the academic affairs revamp.
Representative Board Reports:
Advisor to Student Government Lauri Sidelko reported on interfraternity affairs in place of Justin McCauley. All members of fraternities will now need to be in good standing with the Interfraternity Council to recruit new members. The Senior Class Council representative Nathalie Poulin touched on the “Senior Series” being held on Nov. 2nd in the career center on campus. Seniors can talk to counselors about post-graduate concerns, job opportunities and more.
New Business:
A request for funds to repair the swing set near the Maine Bound Center was proposed. Repairs were already done without funds, but retroactive approval for the repairs is now being requested. Sidelko mentioned repairs being pushed through early due to the high demand from alumni coming for homecoming weekend. The swing set was unsafe and no longer capable of supporting weight. Students and staff are very adamant this is something that we need on campus. Funding for lights and cameras near the swing set is to be discussed in the future to prevent any more damage and violations. The resolution for funding was unanimous.
A request for funds to reinstate the Student Athletic Advisory Council to the General Student Senate was proposed. This act would empower the D1 sport co-presidents as representatives of UMSG so they can be established as paid employees. This act will also serve as a bridge between student-athletes and UMSG, as UMSG will be able to report on their activities and give them a voice at meetings. This resolution was also approved.
