The campus senate convened on April 1, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., where students, senators, and university staff gathered to discuss key proposals and pressing student issues. From campus engagement to academic policies, the meeting proved to be one of the most active sessions this semester.
One of the first items discussed was logistical information for the upcoming 2025 SpringFest. Students were informed that a campus-wide email would outline road closures and updated parking regulations during the event.
Student Proposals Take Center Stage
Four major proposals were presented, stirring questions and reactions from senators and attendees alike.
- Esports Funding Initiative
The president of the Esports organization proposed a student fee to enhance support and equipment for the underrecognized group. A survey supporting the proposal included feedback from 43 students, which led to concerns about its sample size. A senator suggested distributing the survey via mass email to gather broader input, to which the Esports president responded confidently that results would remain consistent. - Raising GPA Requirements for SGA Leadership
Proposed by Senator Rylon Rowe and supported by Amari Penton, this bill seeks to raise the GPA requirement for SGA President, Vice President, Miss Southern, and Chief Justice from 2.75 to 3.0. Originally slated to take effect in Spring 2026, an advisor suggested implementing it as early as Fall 2025. The bill is currently being revised to reflect that change. - Streamlining Financial Leadership Roles
Senator Amari Penton introduced a proposal to merge the roles of Finance Director and Business Manager into a new position titled “Director of Finance and Business Operations.” The goal is to eliminate redundancy and improve efficiency and accountability within student government cabinets. The bill would take effect in Spring 2026 if approved. - Digital Archive for Senate Meeting Minutes
Senator C’Niyah Rucker, with support from Senator Rylon Rowe, proposed creating a digital archive of senate meeting minutes to enhance transparency and accessibility. The Secretary of the Senate would be responsible for developing and maintaining this system, which would also include records of votes and reports. If passed, this change would be included in the student constitution.
All proposed bills are scheduled for a final vote at the last senate meeting of the semester on April 22, 2025.
Concerns Over Registration Timing and Academic Calendar
As the meeting drew to a close, a representative from Student Affairs addressed concerns about Fall 2025 registration opening on April 15—during spring break. Students expressed frustration, citing difficulties reaching advisors during breaks and the risk of missing out on required courses.
“Having registration during spring break means students won’t be focused on classes—they’ll be focused on resting,” said Brandon Lett, a sophomore mass communication major. “Can we get this date changed?”
Additionally, attendees raised concerns about Homecoming and Fall Break overlapping, which could pose challenges for student leaders, athletes, band members, and others who rely on the break to recharge. In response, Student Affairs promised to review the academic calendar and explore solutions, including advisor training and a self-guided tutorial for course registration.
Senator Edmund from the College of Business commented positively on the meeting’s tone: “I was pleasantly surprised by the positive reception of our proposed bills on GPA requirements and merging of finance roles. I’m interested to see its outcome.”
The meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m., with much anticipation for the final senate meeting of the semester.
