The final Shippensburg Student Government Association meeting of the semester was held Thursday, Dec. 12. The fall 2023 semester was a time of rebuilding for SGA, as it strived to fill its senator positions and return to being a functional body. 

SGA President Harun Pacavar addressed the coming end of the semester. “A lot of people have addressed how this semester particularly has been very hard for whatever reason. So please, take the time to find time for yourself. Enjoy the time you have for yourself,” Pacavar said. 

Regina Yeung, the senator representing the Woods Honors College, was recognized for her three years of service to SGA. Yeung is graduating this semester, and Thursday was her last SGA meeting. Yeung was presented with a plaque and a graduation stole.

Vice President Lillian Sellers reported that she plans to meet with SUPD Chief Patrick Taylor next semester to discuss accessibility and evacuation policy. Sellers also revealed she was working with a colleague in the Pennsylvania Governor’s office to pursue a grant for accessible evacuation equipment. 

WSYC General Manager Jenna Cornell gave an update from the campus media board, before raising concerns over student media funding. “We are feeling a little concerned after attending the budget training on Sunday evening. We are worried about the futures of our student media groups if additional cuts are made.”

Speaking on WSYC specifically, Cornell said that if budgets are cut again, they will struggle to operate. Cornell also noted that participation in student media groups is embedded in the curriculum of the Communications, Journalism, and Media Department, making these media groups vital to students’ graduation requirements.

Class of 2027 Senator Kenny Tran spoke about the Living Learning Community (LLC) banquet on Dec. 5. “We discussed our achievements throughout the semester throughout all the different LLCs,” Tran said. He also gave a report on the Honors Symposium, which was held on Dec. 6. 

Athletics Senator Eve Nealon reported on the SAAC’s fundraiser, which raised over $450 from student athletes, coaches, and administration. The funds will go to disadvantaged families in Shippensburg who need financial assistance during the holiday season.

Elizabeth Peters, Editor-in-Chief of The Slate, encouraged members of SGA to read the Dec. 5 edition of the publication. Peters emphasized two articles: “Do we belong here? A disabled student’s perspective” by Lillian Sellers, and “Red heart or red flag: Abuse romanticized in media” by Madi Shively. 

Due to several absences, SGA did not reach quorum and was unable to vote to approve meeting minutes or grant committee voting rights as planned. 

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