Ferris State University student government held its first meeting of the school year.
New president Erin Williams presided over the meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 27. The meeting included brief discussion of the organization and proposed budget as well as introductions.
The 2013-14 proposed student government budget was provided during the meeting. The budgeted amount totals $56,900 with rollover funds from 2012-13 in the amount of $26,000.
“This budget is created for student government events, the Big Event mainly,” Williams said.
The proposed budget was voted on by the general assembly at the Sept. 3 meeting. Results of the vote were not available at press time.
Also on the agenda, Leroy Wright, student government adviser and dean of student life, updated attendees on the search for a vice president of student affairs (VPSA).
“The VPSA is the chief student affairs officer and has administrative responsibility for the enrollment management and student life functions of the university, while also serving as a key member of Ferris senior administrative team,” Wright read from a Ferris handout explaining the position.
Student government Director of Finance Noah Moss reported several open positions in the finance division and asked interested students to apply.
“Joining the Finance Division is a great way for all the students to get involved,” Moss said. “It’s a great way to see where the budget is, especially business majors, and see where money is allocated and have a say in what is going on.”
Finance meetings take place at 6 p.m. every other Thursday in FLITE.
Like Moss, Williams encouraged students to get involved in student government.
“I want the government to grow in student body, be successful and outreach to as many students as possible, see more volunteering events being done and more being done by the student body,” Williams said. “Anyone is welcome to become a member in student government.”
Ferris biochemistry senior Joe Letavis has been active in student government since his sophomore year. This year, he hopes to represent the College of Arts and Sciences as a senator and gain more leadership experience.
“You’re always developing different skills, different techniques and different insights,” Letavis said. “It’s all about growing in experience throughout the year.”
Student government meetings are open to the public and held at 6 p.m. every Tuesday in BUS 218. For more information about the VPSA position, visit ferris.edu.