Fresh faces fill up SGA seats
As right hands go up, oaths are made, signifying that change is on its way. The gavel slams the desk as the motion passes to swear in President-Elect Tyler Larraga and Vice President-Elect Jacquelyn Estelle.
Student Government Association (SGA) elections were held on April 18 and 19 on Blue and Gold for students. As votes were casted and rolled in, results showed Larraga as the next TAMUK Student Body President.
“I was extremely appreciative. I was amazed because I didn’t know that many people would get involved and that just goes to show how students can get together to make something happen,” Larraga said.
As for a vision for SGA, Larraga plans to promote the association’s visibility around campus. He also would like to get SGA more involved and engaged with the students as well as decrease the current vacancies for the upcoming semester. With these plans in mind, Larraga sets out to make the association grow on campus.
Aside from transitioning presidents, SGA also gains a new vice president (VP) and floor confirmations. Estelle, SGA VP, expressed her gratitude towards her new position.
“I’m very excited. To see the vote and see the potential that I can make a difference had me very honored to have been selected and it’s a good opportunity for me to expand and do something for our university,” Estelle said.
The transition meeting into the 97th Legislative Session for SGA allowed for members and those interested to either nominate or self-nominate for floor positions. These positions included Chief of Staff, Treasurer, Greek Life Commissioner, SOA Liaison and CSAC Representative.
Estelle said SGA is the student body’s voice. The association is how students can get their voice, opinions and concerns out with the intention to be heard and spark change.
“I want to engage the students more in our community and our school. I think we can really bring some life back into TAMUK. My parents went to school here and told me how great the student involvement was and how much they enjoyed their time here and that’s exactly what I want to bring to the table for my fellow students,” Estelle said.
The SGA board for the upcoming semester is filled with new faces in new positions. These positions are made to develop leaders and make change for the legislation bills the group wants to pass for students.
“I think if students have an interest in being a voice for their college or their class or even want to make a difference on campus, this association is perfect for them. SGA is the voice of the students, so if that is something they are interested in, I strongly recommend they come to a meeting to see if they would like to be involved the following semester. If seats are open, you can apply,” SGA co-advisor Erin McClure said.
To apply as a senator, the only requirement asked is that the student must run for their college and year. All students can apply to SGA and the association will be tabling and opening applications this fall with hope of more student involvement. SGA will be hosting bi-weekly meetings every other Wednesday.
“I will represent and be a voice for TAMUK students and organizations by listening to them, making sure that everything is running smoothly, making sure that they are comfortable and not only safe but that they are happy. I will relay their concerns to the administration and use my voice as strongly as I can,” Larraga said.
If students have any questions or concerns regarding the university or SGA contact Student Body President Larraga tyler.larraga@students.tamuk.edu.
