Of all the student organizations on campus, none have as far a reach as Student Government, or SG. Because the organization doesn’t have a traditional “general board,” most students do not know what exactly Student Government does.
SG is responsible for major events on campus. Carter Henritzy, a senior psychology major and SG President, has a soft spot for “spring fling,” an upcoming dance that is usually held at the Mary Stegmaier Mansion.
“It’s a great chance to bring students together for a night of dancing, socializing, and great food,” said Henritzy.
SG also hosts other events, including the upcoming Casino Night, Big Event and Block Party. Michael Santini, an undeclared first-year student and treasurer for the class of 2027, explained what block party might look like come spring.
“Block Party is still very early in its planning stages, and I would hate to give too much away so early in the semester. That said, we have a ton planned, and the whole committee is excited about what’s to come,” said Santini.
One thing most students do not realize about SG is that every member serves on at least one committee that focuses on different projects — both SG events and general campus projects. For example, the Capital Projects committee helped fund the renovations to the basement of the Farley Library. In addition to the Block Party committee, Santini is also on the food committee.
“Although we primarily serve as an avenue of feedback for the food services, I can share something brand new this semester: the vending machine directly next to Which Wich on the first floor of the SUB, which offers a few additional food options,” said Santini.
In addition to serving on committees, SG members sit in on weekly meetings.
“An average meeting can vary depending on who we have coming into the meeting,” said Henritzy. “Usually, we have one or two clubs that are asking for funds for their club and a couple of club reports a meeting.”
More than anything else, the passion its members have for the body speaks to the efficacy of SG. Students are not supposed to join an organization for the way it will look on their resume, but for the love of the group and for what they want to provide for the community.
“I wish people knew that SG is more than just meeting in a room every Wednesday.,” said Henritzy. “We are involved in many things on campus. All of our members contribute to every event we hold for the students. Each individual class does great things for their classes as well. SG is here to make student’s enjoy Wilkes to the fullest. We love to see all the students enjoying everything we hold for the students.”
It may be too late to join SG this year, but students can still get involved. Santini and Henritzy echoed the same sentiment: Student Government needs students’ input.
“SG thrives on engagement and feedback, and I encourage the student body to participate and voice their opinions as much as possible,” said Santini. “You can do this by reaching out to your class representatives or making your voice heard at one of the open meetings we hold throughout the semester.”
Keep an eye out for the SG table at next year’s Club Day and in the meantime, students can follow them on Instagram @wilkessg to keep up with their events during the semester.