The Cardinal

Who is the Student Government?

Elizabeth Blymyer
Staff Writer

“The student government is everybody,” says Student Activities/Health Services Coordinator Laura Morris. The student government creates fees and takes suggested improvements into careful consideration.  They discuss the issues and problems presented around the school and make changes in the best ways possible.
What does this have to do with everybody?  Well, it has everything to do with the students.  Without them the student government wouldn’t know exactly what to work on.  It is there to represent the interests and concerns of the students and to let the students’ voices be heard.

Being in the student government isn’t an easy task.  Many challenges are presented and complicated decisions need to be made.  One of the hardest challenges the student government must face has to do with student fees. Whether they should be lowered, raised, or kept the same is the task to be undertaken.
Student fees pay for programs and activities that are not instructionally based such as clubs, career services, and even athletics.  Students do not want to pay expensive fees.  However, if the fees are lowered, the cost of clubs and other programs goes up.  There wouldn’t be enough money to have as many clubs and organizations as we do now.
Don’t let these minor difficulties drive you away.  The student government lets students express their opinions in the level they are comfortable with.  It is for those who are up to a challenge and for those who want to be heard but not have a sworn-in place in the student government.  A student does not necessarily have to be a representative or a part of the committee to make a difference or voice their opinions and suggestions.  They can be a part of it by doing the simplest things—getting involved in school activities and service projects, joining clubs and, most importantly, expressing their opinions.
A student can also be a part of the student government by voting for and supporting representatives in the upcoming elections.  This year elections are being held via e-voting.  October 19-22 an e-mail will be sent to all currently enrolled students.  To vote simply open the e-mail, follow the link provided, and fill out the form.  Students have one chance to fill out the entire form before submitting it.  All votes are anonymous.
Students should feel free to visit the student government meetings.  They are held every Tuesday at 12:30 P.M. in room 48 in the Campus Center.  Students are encouraged to participate. For any questions or concerns speak to a student government representative or visit the Student Life office, located in the Campus Center.