Before Thanksgiving break, the Student Government general board met on Wednesday, November 17 at 8:00 PM. The board heard updates from various projects and committees and looked to approve two funding requests.
Student Body Comments
Senior Javen Reinhardt noticed Admissions has a “Do North” themed snowboard in their showroom. He asked if it was just sitting around or could be raffled off. Dean of Students Jonathan Davis said it was used as an advertising prop for prospective students, but that the manufacturer could make another one if a student wanted, or for a club to raffle off. Davis has the contact information of the Lyndon alumni who made the board if anyone is interested.
On November 16, Public Safety sent an email to all students, recommending those parked in front of News7 to move their vehicles due to maintenance of a plugged storm drain. Executive Vice President Kaitlin Flannigan addressed this at the meeting, asking if students could be given more notice to similar maintenance projects in the future.
Interim President John Mills once again visited the Student Government, thanking all of the clubs who went out of their way to hold gatherings and events during Admissions’ latest Open House. He also mentioned his monthly moon-lit hikes with the Outing Club, where he will host all hikers at the President’s House for pizza.
Reports & Presentations
Maintenance that began on the disc golf course over the summer has finally been completed. In late April, the Student Government had approved over $10,000 for new signage, landscaping, and equipment. Although snow now covers the ground, anyone visiting the disc golf course can now enjoy the new mini-maps at each hole.
The 10% Committee has made some purchases this semester, including additions to the fitness center and new picnic tables to replace the wooden ones outside of the Hornet’s Nest once the snow melts. In partnership with the Student Government, the 10% Committee will also oversee any applications for the emergency fund.
There is $60,044.01 available in the SGA financial account, the total amount being $93,644.01.
Discussion & Action Items
MEISA President Katelyn Gillette presented a funding request of $6,000, 66% of which would go to Greggfest costs, NVU-Lyndon’s annual music festival. Gillette told the Student Government that MEISA wanted to raise Greggfest to a higher standard. While the festival is weighed in the club’s annual budget, MEISA looks to spend an additional $3,000 on talent and $350 on production costs. Production costs include a router and WiFi extension to stream the event. The club hopes to bring in one well-known artist to the festival. But those aren’t the only challenges Greggfest faces. MEISA has “new needs because of the new [COVID] requirements,” and is also requesting an additional $650 for hospitality. With this money, MEISA also looks to repair the Greggfest letters, which have fallen apart in recent productions.
MEISA also looks to spend $2,000 of their requested sum on new gear, specifically a new stage box valued at $1,600, a digital snake at $100, and drum kit microphones at $300. The overall request for $6,000 was approved.
The Student Government then turned to discussion for a new mascot costume. The executive board recommended this, suggesting the same vendor the current Buzz the Hornet came from. This would not change the mascot of the campus but update the physical costume. Students who have worn the costume spoke to its condition, claiming the inside of the head is taped together and the foam shoes are crumbling apart. Buzz’s wings are held up with pins and he wears numerous shirts that don’t fit his body properly. The general board approved looking into a new mascot and including a “Lyndon” branded jersey. The executive board is expected to return with updates, and possibly a price estimate, this week.
Other Business
The Student Government has announced its spring semester schedule. The SGA will continue to meet every other Wednesday at 8:00 PM in the Moore Community Room. The dates of official general board meetings are as follows: January 26th, February 9th, March 2nd, March 16th, March 30th, April 20th, and May 4th.
Club & Committee Updates
Following approval at the November 3rd SGA meeting, a Winter Ball Committee has been formed to help organize the event. Members of this committee include Josh Dick, Gabby Brown, Haley Fiaschetti, Rory Conroy, Gill MacDonald, Patrick Wickstrom, and a SAAC representative that had not yet been announced.
Dance Ensemble confirmed the return of the Dancing with the Presidents competition next semester.
SAAC announced plans for Hornet Madness, a celebration of school spirit and athletic competitions held the first weekend of the spring semester.
Lyndon Day planning has started. Flannigan says she is in the midst of ordering shirts to be given away at the event next semester.
The meeting concluded at 8:50 PM. The final Student Government meeting of the semester is slated to occur this Wednesday at 8:00 PM in the Moore Community Room (ASAC 100). Several funding requests are listed on the agenda, including bleachers and a convection oven for Hornet’s Nest. Amy Wright from Career Services is also expected to speak.