During the first years of the University of South Carolina, student life was dominated by the campus’ literary societies, the Euphradian and Clariosophic Societies. In later years, officers were elected to lead each academic class, and it is at this point that we find Student Government when The Gamecock begins publication in 1908. The October 8, 1908, issue of the newspaper notes that during the first week of classes, the senior, junior, and sophomore classes elected their officers: a president, a vice president, a secretary, a treasurer (sometimes the previous two were combined), a historian, and a delegate to the honor system committee. Freshmen would select their officers at a later date under the supervision of the upperclassmen. The officers of the senior academic class were by tradition known not only as officers of the senior class but as “student body officers,” a term that is used to this day to refer to the executive officers of Student Government. The tradition of the senior class president serving simultaneously as student body president would end in 1928 when Drufus Griffin was elected student body president and Carey Gregory was elected president of the senior class. Along with added coverage, a monumental Constitution, and more responsibility, the 1950’s and 1960’s revealed an enormous change to the picture of Student Government as it had commonly been known. Until that time, Student Government was essentially the student body president. His prominence overshadowed the other personalities and his work and commentary were the only ones of note. But with the creation of the Student Senate, the tide began to turn. As the Senate began to meet, its discussion became front page news, balancing the power of the student body president. Although the president is undoubtedly student government’s most prominent member to this day, he or she no longer commands sole attention on Student Government matters. Today, Student Government consists of three executive officers (a president, a vice president, and a treasurer), the president’s cabinet, a senate, a freshman council, a constitutional council, student comptrollers, a congressional advisory board, an elections commission, a television station, and the members of university committees. Despite its evolution over time, Student Government remains the voice of the student body as it did in 1908.
CONTENTS
From the Student Body President.....................................2 Executive Cabinet & Staff...................................................3 Student Body Vice President & Senate............................4 Student Body Treasurer......................................................5 Constitutional Council.........................................................6 Freshman Council................................................................7 Congressional Advisory Board..........................................8 SGTV/Elections Commission............................................9 Textbooks............................................................................. 10 Academics............................................................................11 Student Services.................................................................12 Athletics...............................................................................13 Health, Wellness, & Sustainability.................................. 14 Safety....................................................................................15 Outreach.........................................................................16-17 Governmental Affairs........................................................18 Communications.................................................................19 What Others Say About SG........................................ 20-21
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
From the student body President
Dear Readers, The Office of Student Government and Student Organizations is devoted to promoting the success of all students at the University of South Carolina through enhancing all aspects of student life, thus making one’s time at Carolina all the more enjoyable. Through our individual Student Government initiatives combined with the immense number of student organizations, our office is able to reach out to different populations of students, finding those issues that are important to students, and ultimately working to address them. This annual report serves to reflect upon the past year in Student Government and the hard work of so many students devoted to bettering the lives of our peers on this campus. Due to the increased involvement of the general student body in expressing and articulating needs and concerns, an overwhelming amount of programs and services were implemented this past year. At the conclusion of the term, the projects that we worked on within Student Government can be divided into several categories: textbooks, student services, athletics, health, wellness, and sustainability, safety, governmental affairs, outreach, communications, and academics. Within each group you will find a subset of programs and services that were initiated under the umbrella of Student Government. I think it is also appropriate at this juncture to acknowledge the remarkable collaboration we have had with administrators and other university officials throughout the year. It is because of their continued support that we can say we were successful this year. Through our relationships with Dr. Andrew Sorensen and his team, Student Government has been able to show these leaders that we, too, care about this university, and want to be a part of moving it in the right direction. I hope this report will make you proud of the hard work of so many of your counterparts here at USC, but more importantly, proud of being a member of the Carolina Community. As a student, you have a right and an obligation to voice all your concerns and issues to Student Government so that we may work together to bring about positive change. Enjoy reading the 2006-2007 annual report of the USC Student Government, and it has truly been my honor to serve as your Student Body President this past year. In your service,
Tommy Preston, Jr. Student Body President
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
executive cabinet & staff
The Cabinet of the Student Body President is a fluid organization, molding itself to the needs of the president. Upon being elected as Student Body President, Tommy Preston, Jr. reviewed his platform and designed a cabinet that would best execute his goals for the university. The 2006-2007 cabinet consists of twenty-five secretaries who report directly to the Student Body President. President Preston has also created an Executive Staff of six individuals to help with the administrative duties of running the Office of the President and the Cabinet. Cabinet meetings were held weekly on Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m. and Cabinet Secretaries were required to serve two office hours per week. The meetings that took place in the SEC Room of the Russell House allowed these leaders to discuss pertinent university issues, as well as plan initiatives, report on programs, and hear from guest speakers.
Amanda Alpert
Cabinet Members
Secretary of Greek Affairs
Emily Dawes Chief of Staff
Elizabeth Martin Deputy Chief of Staff
Joseph Lewis
Communications Director
Secretary of Transportation
Nikesh Amin
Manish Dave
Zach Baker
Andrew Gaeckle
Rob Bierly
Chris Gainey
Kyle Bohman
Kristen Hughes
Annie Boiter-Jolley
Meghan Hughes
Secretary of Student Affairs
President’s Staff
Reed Curtis
Secretary of Greek Affairs Secretary of Housing
Freshman Council Advisor Secretary of Institutional Affairs
Alesha Brown
Secretary of Minority Affairs Secretary of Athletics (Fall 2006) Secretary of Health Services Secretary of Athletics (Spring 2007) Liaison to the SC Commission on Higher Education
Leanne Sheira
Secretary of Minority Outreach and Retention
Laura Kotti
Special Assistant to the Student Body President
Celia Goetowski
Andrew Bullard
DeShawn Mitchell
Special Assistant to the Student Body President
Kallie Metzger
Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff
Secretary of Government and Community Relations
John Carroll
Secretary of Organizational Affairs
Vivian Castro
Secretary of International Student Affairs (Spring 2006)
Raghav Mehra
Secretary of International Student Affairs
Kirsten Coleman
Secretary of Sustainable Living
Betsy Curry
Freshman Council Advisor
Secretary of Student Disability Services Director of Intergovernmental Affairs
Carla Patat
Secretary of Education
Lauren Riga Secretary of Safety
Sonam Shah
Secretary of Campus Health and Wellness
Ben Springer
Secretary of Environmental Affairs
Mark Stone Attorney General
Ashley Wood
Secretary of Advancement
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
Student body vice president & senate
The 98th Senate The 98th Senate (2006-2007) has proven to be one of the most active in Student Government history. Senators considered approximately forty-five bills and resolutions during 2006 and, at the time of this writing, continue to file legislation until its adjournment on March 21, 2007. The Senate addressed a number of issues including procedures for cabinet appointments, ticket distribution practices, transportation, and smoking policies. The Senate also confirmed the first Constitutional Council. The Powers & Responsibilities Committee also made history by filling every Senate vacancy. The Senate convenes in its Chambers on Wednesdays at 5:00 p.m. Ryan Holt
Student Body Vice President
Senate Chambers In the summer of 2005, the Russell House agreed to allow Student Government, in the tradition of Omicron Delta Kappa and Golden Key, to finance the construction of a permanent Senate Chambers. Preceding the creation of these chambers, the Senate had met consistently in the Russell House Theater. During a meeting with Holt and Preston in the summer of 2005, then Director of Student Life Jerry Brewer suggested that the officers pursue the acquisition of the presiding officer’s desks that had been left behind in the Carolina Plaza Hotel (during renovation of the State Capitol in the 1990’s, the General Assembly met in the ballrooms of the hotel). With an okay from the university administration, Ryan Holt and Tommy Preston joined Russell House Director Carmela Carr and carpenter Alan Kinder at the Plaza and determined that although the desks were far too large to place in the Student Senate Chambers, they could be dismantled and reassembled in a smaller form. And so, barely by its deadline for the first meeting of its new session on August 24, the Chambers opened with a newly-finished presiding officer’s desk. The set of rooms (formally referred to as RH322 and RH326) were formally dedicated a week later on August 31, 2005.
Student Senators List: Salman Ali Samirah Ashraf Christina Baraty Brittany Berg Alex Bryan Megan Bustamante Michelle Callaham Veronica Castro Lee Cole David Ensor Randy RaShad Gaines Michael Hickman Alex Kinlaw Allen Klump Chris McNamee Haley Mottel Carole Muedder Sasha Noorani Ashley Pauling Nicholas Payne
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
John Rabon Johnny Ragsdale David Repp Courtney Robinson Jonathan Ross Justin Runager James Russell Brad Setzler Erika Sherwood Cordell Simmons Ivey Simmons Steven Smith Chase Stoudenmire Cameron Stover Ian Sutton Kyle Warnock Megan Womack Ryan Woodall Clary Wright Michael Young Stephanie Zejewski
student body treasurer
This year, the Treasurer’s office was able to greatly enhance the budgeting process for student organizations. The Treasurers’ Workshops were updated, and organizations were allowed to give feedback into what they thought would be more beneficial. We also held a week long “Last Minute Budget Crunch” Series. These “workshops” took place two weeks prior to the date budgets were due and allowed students to bring budgets in and have them looked over by the Treasurer and student comptrollers. Each night for a week, students were available in the Russell House for up to two hours to help organizations. They were able to give advice on object codes, pricing estimates, and even helped some organizations create their entire budgets. Several organizations took advantage of this opportunity. In response to the new measures taken this year to make the budget process more organization-friendly, 16 more student organizations requested money this year than last. The two week extension that the Student Senate implemented this year helped to make this possible. There was also a push from the Treasurer’s Office to create a campus C-Store. Throughout the course of several meetings, university officials stated that they wanted to find avenues to provide students with more services on our campus. The C-Store would allow students to purchase milk, bread, deodorant, and various other necessities while never leaving campus. The benefit of the C-Store will be that students can buy groceries with the use of their Carolina Card, while avoiding the hectic nature of Columbia traffic. Construction on the C-Store is to begin in the fall in the area just behind Bull Street Garage, beside the Student Health Center.
Jennifer L. Guest
Student Body Treasurer
Student Comptrollers Student Comptrollers serve as financial advisors to student organizations as they prepare their budgets and spend their allocated funds. This year the comptrollers worked closely with the Treasurer to ensure student organizations had all the resources needed to voice their desires for funding.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
Constitutional council
The Constitutional Council makes up the Judicial Branch of the University of South Carolina Student Government. It consists of one chief justice and four other associate justices with jurisdiction over the undergraduate and graduate student body. The Constitutional Council addresses any issues concerning interpretation of the constitution, all legislation enacted by the Senate and the constitutionality of Student Senate legislation, elections that pertain to Student Government and all proclamations issued by the Executive Branch of the Student Government. As well, the Constitutional Council is to settle any questions regarding the separation of authority between the Executive and Legislative Branches of Student Government while maintaining students’ freedoms guaranteed to them by the Student Govrnment Constitution. The Constitutional Council has become the third branch of a system of checks and balances within Student Government at USC. This innovative move from the Carolina Student Judicial Council to a separate entity under Student Government has been a process of defining a specific base and structure to the judicial branch of Student Government. Led by Chief Justice Andrew Collins, the council worked with Student Senate and President Tommy Preston to provide students with an opportunity to keep their elected officials in check all the while maintaining a judicial system that is not burdensome or lacking in purpose. With the determined work of Attorney General Mark Stone and the thorough review of Student Senate, the Constitutional Council has filled all its associate justice positions with Cassidy Evans, Emily Matthews, Brooke Mulenex and out going Justice Jay Laura. The Constitutional Council is now hearing cases on constitutional conflicts within Student Government and hopes to support USC students in upholding the SG constitution and resolve all constitutional disputes. This year the Constitutional Council has been busy with the search for a guaranteed budget and an office as well as defining and creating a strong base for legitimacy within Student Government. Next year looks promising for the Constitutional Council and only hopes to best serve the students.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
freshman council
Freshman Council is a diverse team of new leaders chosen in the fall of their first year at USC to represent and speak for the freshman class. Each council has the option of forming a number of committees; this council formed six committees to address and act upon campus concerns they themselves had witnessed thus far in their academic careers. The Academic Support Committee has worked to educate professors and students about the beneficial use of Blackboard. They organized Blackboard Awareness Day, which took place on Greene Street outside our university union, to allow students to express their interest in seeing more professors using the service. They also administered a survey to Honors College freshmen dealing with advisement and relayed the information to the Honors College administration. The Civic Engagement Committee was responsible for community service activities by the council. As their biggest project, the committee took left-over food from the Russell House dining hall to a local homeless shelter. It became a weekly service for the students and is considered one of the most successful and impressive projects of the year for the council. The Campus Concerns committee worked with the Healthy Carolina office to help educate students on mind, body, and soul wellness. They released a campus-wide survey concerning healthy dining options at USC and continue to work to address these needs. Future Freshman Focus handles projects concerning future students. They compiled survey responses to come up with new, better ideas for orientation and Welcome Week, and presented those findings to Orientation Services. The goal of the Spirit, Entertainment, and Fun Committee is to unite the council team. Through game nights and holiday parties, they worked to keep the members active and excited. They also planned a campus-wide Late Night Carolina with the Association of African American Students (AAAS). The Public Relations Committee handled advertisement, publicity, and promotions of all Freshman Council activities. They created and maintained an updated website for FC. These students also raised interest and awareness of the USC online ride board and advisement information. They worked with the Cockpit creation team to include ideas that are particularly important to freshmen. In addition to the projects of the students, Freshman Council educated the new leaders about etiquette, campus activities, and opportunities for involvement for a wide range of campus organizations.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
Congressional advisory board
The mission of the student Congressional Advisory Board (CAB) is to communicate to the US Congress the views and interests of USC students on those issues that are important to them. In representing students of this state, the student Congressional Advisory Board incorporates the opinions of students with efficient research to develop recommendations to the United States Congress. Eight board members and the Student Body Officers serve their peers on the CAB. Board members interview students on campus to hear their opinions about national concerns. The board also assists in developing a list of priorities and goals for rendering advice to the US Congress. These recommendations are compiled into an annual report that is presented to members of the SC Congressional Delegation, White House officials, and education leaders. Each spring, the Board travels to Washington, DC to meet with national leaders. The CAB was created in 2005, and members went on their second trip in March 2007. During these trips, students met with elected officials such as House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn and other members of Congress, representatives from the White House Office of Management and Budget, the National Governors’ Association, the US Student Association, and officials from the Department of Education, among others. “Students at USC have an excellent understanding of the issues facing our nation. As a member of the student Congressional Advisory Board, they’ll play an active role in government and will be able to voice their opinions to their representatives. When I was in college, my experience in Student Government furthered my passion for public service and I’d like to encourage students to also take advantage of this great opportunity. I value students’ opinions and look forward to working with them.” Congressman Joe Wilson SC, District 2 “The student Congressional Advisory Board is an encouraging innovation by USC’s Student Government. It provides a wonderful opportunity for students to become more engaged in the issues facing our nation and gain a deeper understanding of the governmental process. I look forward to interacting with my student constituents.” Congressman Jim Clyburn US House Majority Whip SC, District 6
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
sgtv & elections commission
SGTV The first year of SGTV has been a great success. They succeeded in gaining access to Gamecock Cable Channel 4 through University Instructional Services (UIS) and have been airing programming since September 2006. SGTV airs weekly programs such as Student Senate meetings, campus events, and other student produced shows. The SGTV Executive Board started with a handful of members and has grown drastically to eighty actively participating producers and technical staff. Numerous workshops have engaged students and educated them on technical skills such as videography, editing and production. Establishing working relationships with campus entities such as Student Media and Carolina Productions has benefited SGTV tremendously. Plans are currently in effect to make SGTV an official entity within the Office of Student Media. SGTV will continue to grow and develop to promote, educate and entertain students at USC.
Elections Commission The Elections Commission had a very eventful election season. Planning for Inauguration was paused while students debated the date and location. The Presidential and Vice Presidential elections were both contested. A run-off election was held for the Treasurer election. The commission was composed of nine members, including Commissioner Kayleigh Entsminger and Deputy Commissioner Carla Patat. Commission members are picked early in the fall semester after turning in applications. The election theme this year was “007.� Through additional funding by President Preston, the Commission was able to give election T-shirts to Resident Advisors this year. Voter turnout increased tremendously and it was a great election season overall.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
textbooks
Library Textbook Reserve This program was created to help alleviate the burden of high textbook costs facing students. Classes with an enrollment of more than 100 students, requiring a textbook costing over $100.00 will have that book on reserve in the library for student use. SG and private funding from the USC Library will help to subsidize this initiative.
Textbook Exchange Program SG worked with the SGA at the University of Kentucky to create an online textbook exchange program to allow students to post textbooks and exchange with each other. This was another example of SG’s efforts to make sure that students got the most money back from the sale of their textbooks.
Relationship with the University Book Store We created a very cordial relationship with the University Bookstore to make textbooks more affordable for students. This included creating the Lowest Price Guarantee Program to match the price of any textbook sold at other stores, working to ensure that professors turned in book orders on time, and providing to professors ways they could save students money on textbooks. We were also able to work with the bookstore to create a program to let students purchase textbooks through VIP.
National Attention to Textbook Issue Our SG continues to receive national attention for our efforts to address this issue. From appearing on local media circuits to state-wide newspapers, people are aware of the importance of this issue to students. SG also joined a nationwide coalition of Student Governments to make textbooks affordable.
Textbook Legislation SG worked to lobby for legislation to help address some of the major textbook concerns. Currently members of the General Assembly are working to tackle this issue at the state level. One effort being pursued is to require publishers to disclose the price of textbooks to professors during the adoption process.
Professor Textbook Education Educating professors about what they can do to help alleviate textbook costs for students has shown some of most promising results. A brochure outlining 5 simple ways a professor could make textbook prices more affordable to the student was created and distributed to every instructor on campus. Additionally, communication with the Deans of each school has helped to encourage professors to avoid new editions and bundled textbooks, as well as using Blackboard as a resource to post course material.
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
academics
Grade Forgiveness In February 2007, the Faculty Senate approved a new Grade Forgiveness policy. This effort was a long-term goal of Student Government leaders, and is one of the first student-proposed initiatives to pass through the Faculty Senate. This new policy allows students to retake up to two courses they have previously failed. Though both grades will stay on the student’s transcript, only the new grade will be calculated towards their grade point average (GPA).
Online Course Descriptions The online course description program was developed to make sure that students had the most information possible when selecting courses to take. From the Registrar’s site, students will soon have access to a synopsis of the course, the textbooks used, and course assignments, among other information. This program is expected to go into effect soon.
24 Hour Library Use A major concern of students was that the library was not open during the times they were most likely to study – namely, late at night. This was especially a concern during exam periods. After discussing these concerns with university and library administrators, Student Government leaders were successful in obtaining 24 hour student access to the library Sunday through Thursday and 7 days a week during the final exam period. The student response was overwhelmingly positive to this new service.
Expanded Study Locations in the Library SG worked with University Library officials to expand the space in the Thomas Cooper Library dedicated to studying. Through this expansion, students have more room to study, work on assignments with their peers, and interact with classmates.
Faculty Senate/Student Liaison The Faculty Senate/Student Liaison Committee is composed of both faculty and student leaders from across campus. This committee meets once per semester to discuss campus concerns affecting all members of the Carolina Community and to collaborate on initiatives to improve the university.
Minority Outreach Student Team Created this year through the partnership of the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and SG, this team consists of a number of talented minority students at Carolina who are dedicated to reaching out to prospective minority students. They are responsible for contacting these students, visiting schools across the state, and also participating in on-campus recruiting events.
Research/Innovista With research becoming a major priority for USC, SG has worked with university officials to find avenues for Carolina students to have opportunities to do research during their college careers. SG has also been a part of the plans to create our university’s Innovista district, believing that this endeavor will contribute to building a better USC and state. President Preston had the honor of serving on the committee to select the first Innovista executive director.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
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student services
Organization Budgets The executive cabinet met with Student Body Treasurer Jennifer Guest and various comptrollers in order to provide supplemental workshops to help student organization treasurers plan their budgets. Many organizations received the much needed aid to make sure their budgets were in good order before the annual budget deadline. SG also worked to give organizations more time to turn in budgets in the spring.
Bull Street Parking Garage Changes In late December of 2006, SG worked with Parking Services to section off certain levels of the Bull Street Garage in order to ease congestion and provide a safer and more convenient location for hourly parking and commuter students.
Russell House Architectural Study For years, students have voiced their concern that the Russell House University Union does not adequately meet the needs of students, more specifically in terms of meeting and event space. This year, President Preston worked with Dr. Sorensen to secure funding for an architectural study to be done on the RH to determine what areas need to be addressed.
Readership Program With the support of the Board of Trustees, we were able to permanently fund the USC Readership Program which provides students with daily copies of the USA Today, The State, New York Times, and Wall Street Journal newspapers.
Improving Dining Services SG worked with Dining Services to allow healthier food choices on the meal plan. In the Fall of 2006, the Colloquium restaurant opened without allowing students to get meals on their Meal Plan. SG negotiated the use of Meal Plans for this facility, ultimately bringing increased revenue to the restaurant. We were instrumental in supporting a Late-Night Breakfast program, placing a Food Trolley at the Engineering School, finding alternatives to non-biodegradable Styrofoam material, and bringing popular foods such as buffalo wings, hot dogs, and BBQ to the Russell House.
Shuttle to Commercial Areas President Preston worked with Columbia Mayor Bob Coble and City Manager Charles Austin to lay the groundwork for the creation of a shuttle system to transport students from campus to commercial areas of Columbia. This service should be made available to students in the near future.
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
athletics
Carolina Card/ATM machines in Williams Brice Through the efforts of SG, the Carolina Card is now accepted at concession stands at the Williams-Brice Football Stadium. ATM machines were also added to the stadium to better serve football fans that come to the stadium without cash.
Relationship with Athletics The Athletics Department has continuously listened to the concerns and needs of students. In coalition with Athletics officials, SG has helped facilitate multiple student focus groups that discussed various issues. Giveaways and special events for students have arisen from this collaboration, as well as student school spirit being on the rise. Students are also represented on the football focus group and University Athletic Advisory Committee, among others.
School Spirit School Spirit is always very important for fans of all ages. This year SG purchased rally rags and pom pons to put in the bleachers of the student sections at home football games. This not only was a service to students to help them cheer on the Gamecocks, but also a chance to support student athletes who work hard to represent USC.
Shuttle to Athletic Events SG worked with Parking Services to create a shuttle system to take students from the Russell House to athletic events. This service provides a way for students who do not have transportation to Williams- Brice and the Colonial Center to be able to attend these events.
Student Behavior at Athletic Events SG responded to inappropriate student behavior at football games by raising awareness of how badly it reflected on our school and of the sanctions that the administration would impose if this behavior did not stop immediately. SG also established a new behavior policy to ensure the safety of fans and good sportsmanship at games.
PJ Slam 2007 This was an effort to start a new tradition at Carolina and bring more students to the men’s basketball games. This year’s event was held during the USC vs. Auburn game. Working with the Bookstore, pajama pants were designed and sold to fans. The first 250 fans wearing the pants received a free pair of Gamecock Crocs.
Ticket Distribution Working with the office of Student Life, SG worked to update the football ticket distribution system for students. Student focus groups were held to determine what kind of system would be beneficial for our campus.
Carolina Convoy In order to promote school spirit at football games at home as well as away, SG offered travel packages which included the cost of a football ticket, transportation, and spirit bags to an away football game each fall. Students registered to attend a few weeks prior to the game and traveled together in a large charter bus.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
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Health, wellness & sustainability
Recycling and Litter on campus This year, SG recommended that USC provide more staff for recycling pick-up and hire students to work with the recycling coordinator to complete these tasks. We also concluded that recycling services should be standardized, more extensive and easily communicated to the student body. Trash cans have also been added to university garages to help reduce litter in these areas.
Bike Fleet Program SG approved the purchase of bicycles, complete with locks, bells and helmets for this new program. The bikes may be checked out at the Strom Thurmond Wellness and Fitness Center. This program is an effort to encourage the use of bicycles on campus.
Support for Healthy Carolina In conjunction with Healthy Carolina, SG held the first annual Healthy Carolina Week during the week of February 12-16, 2007. Each day of the week had a different theme, addressing each of the major concerns of health for college students: physical activity and nutrition, stress, sexual health, mental health, alcohol, drugs and tobacco. These themes were determined to be the top barriers to academic success by a nationwide survey of college students. This was one example of showing SG’s continued support for this program.
Volunteer Medical Response Registry SG joined Student Health Services in the effort for emergency preparedness. An online registry was created to allow students who are currently licensed medical personnel to submit their contact information to a volunteer medical response database, in the event that their services would be needed during a campus wide incident, disaster, or epidemic.
Support for Health Center Improvements A primary goal for SG was to campaign for the construction of a new student health center (or annex). Recognizing that the current health center facilities are inadequate to provide the necessary services that students require and that the volume of patients is currently too large to provide timely service, SG worked with administrators to begin the process of building a facility. A large-scale student survey was also conducted to determine the need for expansions and improvements from a students’ perspective.
SG Health Recommendations In light of issues raised by university administrators regarding the implementation of a mandatory meningitis vaccine policy and a hard-waiver insurance requirement for undergraduate students, SG made the recommendations to the University Health Advisory Board on how to address these matters.
Support of new University Smoking Policy In the Fall of 2006, President Sorensen, Student Government, and Healthy Carolina enacted a new policy that prohibits the use of tobacco products within 25 ft. of any university building. It also prohibits smoking in university buildings and vehicles. This policy was designed to improve air quality and reduce litter. New trash cans with ash trays were installed in various locations, in accordance with this new policy. SG also supported Smokefree Columbia, an effort to end smoking in Columbia workplaces, including restaurants and bars.
Support of LEED Certified Buildings SG and President Sorensen worked together to encourage LEED Certification for all new university buildings. Sorensen verbally committed to this policy and continues to work to make Carolina a more environmentally friendly campus. SG was instrumental in this process as well.
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
safety
Call Boxes - Funding and Maintenance In addition to making sure that broken call boxes are repaired immediately, SG worked with the USCPD to make sure that maps of current call box locations were posted in all residence halls. Also, through the collaborative efforts of President Preston and Dr. Sorensen, funding has been secured for the installation of more call boxes around campus in areas where they do not already exist.
Improving Campus Safety Walks SG worked to create more organized safety walks throughout our campus. The campus was split into small quadrants to better address safety issues. We established a consistent calendar for hosting these safety walks in an effort to make sure issues are being handled.
Library Shuttle In light of the new 24-hour access at the Thomas Cooper Library, SG worked with Parking Services to create a shuttle system for student use. A van runs from 12:30 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and takes students from the library to their residence halls and vice versa.
Safety Guides Over the summer of 2006, SG created an updated safety guide brochure that would go out to all students living on campus. The brochures are complete with safety tips, a call box map, and important phone numbers in case of an emergency.
Blossom Street Turning Light We worked with the Office of Parking Services and the City of Columbia to place a left-lane turning signal from Blossom Street onto Bull Street. The installation of this turn signal makes it safer and more convenient and for individuals to access the Bull Street Garage.
CPO Program The Campus Patrol Officer Program was created through the efforts of the Department of Safety and SG to keep Carolina safe. Student officers patrol the campus throughout the day in addition to the USCPD. This was another example of our efforts to make sure that students are safe while attending USC.
USCPD Disabilities Training A program was devised to educate USC police officers about various student disabilities and how to properly handle situations involving disabled students. This training included how to react to certain emergency situations, including individuals experiencing seizures or bi-polar episodes.
Path Through Carolina SG worked with various university entities to lay the groundwork for this project that serves a variety of purposes. The Pathway is set to provide a safe, well-lit path to walk or ride bikes from one part of campus to another. It also provides historical information about different parts of campus.
Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
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outreach
Relationship with Regional Campuses SG leaders here at USC-Columbia believe in working with our regional campuses to make sure that the interests of all USC students are addressed. A Regional Campus SG Leaders Summit was held to discuss pertinent issues and to further build a spirit of collaboration between the USC campuses.
Student Business Incubator Center This program was designed to foster student businesses through the counsel, advice, and financial support given by the USC Technology Incubator and SG. This year’s process was considered one of the most organized efforts in years.
SEC Exchange Conference The SEC Exchange (formerly the SEC Student Government Conference) was founded to allow the SG leaders of the Southeastern Conference to share ideas and find ways to work together throughout the year. This year USC was proud to showcase what was happening on our campus. The agenda for the conference weekend consisted primarily of seminars, discussions, tours of USC facilities, and entertainment in Columbia. Guests enjoyed lunch at President Sorensen’s House, a tour of Williams Brice Stadium, a night at the State Fair, and even a formal dinner with US Congressman Joe Wilson.
Cocky’s Reading Express This program was created to promote literacy throughout the state of South Carolina. Working closely with the SC State Library, SG traveled to elementary schools throughout SC as well as the EdVenture Children’s Museum to read to children. SG also hosted a Reading Festival on the Strom Intramural Fields during National Children’s Book Week. Hello Cocky! books were distributed to every student SG contacted.
Former SG Presidents’ Reunion This is a new event co-sponsored by the Alumni Association and SG in which former Student Body Presidents come back to campus for a visit. These presidents will hear presentations on the university’s progress, attend the SG Inauguration, hold a discussion panel with incoming SG leaders, and host a luncheon honoring the incoming Student Body President.
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
outreach
University Committees This was the first year in recent history that all student seats on University Committees were filled. In January 2007, a reception was held for student committee members and chairs, during which students reported their committees’ recent activities and were invited to share any problems they had experienced.
Minority Advisory Council The Minority Advisory Council was formed in Fall 2006. The MAC is SG’s official link to minority students on campus. The MAC was effective in discussing and advising President Preston on several issues. One major issue was speaking out against racism and profanity on our campus. Also, the MAC created the “Minority Report,” which showcased current issues and events in the minority community at Carolina.
Commitment to International Students SG worked closely with the International Student Association (ISA) to highlight the achievements of international students, find ways to make them feel more welcome in the Carolina community, and to provide them with more access to financial aid. Through financial support and marketing, SG has helped to develop programs such as World Night and the International Student Welcome.
International Issue Conferences SG co-sponsored two conferences discussing international issues including health concerns, government issues, human rights, and immigration. The most recent conference included remarks from Pierina Correa, the sister of the President of Ecuador who advises her brother on immigration issues.
Alumni Association Freshmen Send-Off Events This year, SG participated in these events to welcome incoming Freshmen to the Carolina family. During the summer, SG leaders traveled to Washington, D.C., Raleigh, Charlotte, Greenville, and other cities to meet the students and their families.
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governmental affairs
Eat In, Speak Out This program is a first at USC. University, state, and national leaders were invited to campus to dine with student leaders from various organizations and discuss issues that are important to them. Guests included Columbia Mayor Bob Coble, USC Vice President of Research Harris Pastides, and US House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, among others.
Tuition Cap Forum SG and the Graduate Student Association sponsored a forum to discuss the topic of Governor Mark Sanford’s tuition cap proposal. State Senators Brad Hutto (D) and John Courson (R) were the featured guests.
Collaboration with the City of Columbia SG and the University Safety Committee met with Mayor Bob Coble to discuss issues concerning lighting around USC’s campus. The City agreed to better upkeep of city lights on our campus and to create a system to identify broken lights so that they may be repaired expediently. Through our collaboration, we also improved the relationship between City Hall and students at USC.
Commission on Higher Education We were able to develop strong relationships between SG and the SC Commission on Higher Education. Upon the continued support of all parties involved, students in this state can expect to play a critical role in the CHE within the coming years. This is a victory not only for students at USC, but for students across the state.
Student Advocacy This SG administration was very active in taking student concerns to elected officials. From lobbying visits to City Hall and the Statehouse, to testifying at committee hearings, to travelling to Washington, D.C., SG continues to serve as an advocate for students. Legislators even commented that it was because of SG working with the University Administration that the state was willing to give additional funding to USC. Because of these efforts, USC experienced the lowest tuition increase in six years.
Voter Registration Effort Working in a partnership with the South Carolina State Student Association (SCSSA), Student Government led a voter registration drive over a period of several weeks in September and October that ultimately resulted in over 700 new registered voters. The registration drive was followed by a voter education campaign.
Constitution Day With a federal mandate to observe this day, USC celebrated with the executive officers dressing up in colonial-era regalia and distributing pocket constitutions and buttons to students. Our efforts have received state and national press and recognition from US Senator Robert Byrd who sponsored the bill to require universities to observe Constitutional Day.
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
communications
Text Messaging Program In 2006, Student Government cultivated a relationship with Mobile Campus, a text messaging service that allows university administration and student groups to communicate with the Carolina community. The program is financed by text messaging from advertisers in the form of coupons beneficial to the student body. The University Business and Finance Office is still exploring the financial obligation and decided to begin the process to institute a similar text messaging service.
RA Roundtable The RA Roundtable convened with Housing officials, the SG Secretary of Housing, and Residential Advisors to discuss how to better the RA experience on campus. Lists of specific concerns were made and sent to the Housing Office.
Let’s Talk Carolina Keeping a pledge to reach out to student organizations, President Preston created this program immediately after being inaugurated. Visiting every Greek group and many other organizations, SG leaders listened to students’ thoughts, concerns and answered their questions. This program resulted in higher Student Government participation within the Greek Community and in student organizations.
Greek Leadership Summit This event was held to bring Greek leaders and SG together to discuss in what ways SG could better assist the Greek Community. Greek leaders offered ideas and asked questions about university issues. Through feedback from these leaders, a mail drop-off and turn lane were installed in the Greek Village. We were also able to work with President Sorensen to develop plans to expand the Greek Village.
Kristi Yamaguchi Skating with Family and Friends Commercial/Marketing Students SG worked with the USC Marketing Department to make and star in commercials promoting USC during the Kristi Yamaguchi Friends and Family Show, aired on NBC. We also worked with the Marketing Department to better highlight the great things that students are doing on our campus.
Tommy Talks This weekly publication was emailed to SG members as well as advisors and administrators to inform these individuals of the current initiatives, recently completed projects, reminders/announcements, and acknowledgements to outstanding student leaders. This was a key avenue to unite all facets of SG and the individuals with whom we work on a daily basis.
Communication with Minority Students and Parents In an effort to better communicate with prospective students and their parents, as well as the parents of current students, SG recommended and co-sponsored a minority student’s perspective panel at Open House. The panel consisted of a number of minority students who talked about their experiences at Carolina. We also co-sponsored a Parent’s Weekend Gospel Program with the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs.
The Cockpit Web Site This will be a “one-stop shop” for current student needs and information. The Web site will be a hub for the most important information and links that students need on a day to day basis. Quick link s to vital information such as VIP, student services, and Columbia restaurants and entertainment will be included. The Cockpit will also allow direct student communication with SG about campus issues.
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what others say about sg
“I have worked with a huge number of student officers during my long career and I have never, ever worked with a group of students as capable, as talented, as dedicated, and as conscientious as this group of officers we have now.” Dr. Andrew A. Sorensen USC President “Student Government is one of the tires of a four wheel drive vehicle. Without a good, balanced Student Government, the institution cannot move up the highway. With the right pressure, the right balance, the rights tread, Student Government propels the university to higher and more thoughtful achievement. During this last year, constant communication and interaction have kept all the moving parts in synch and have driven Carolina to new heights which benefit present and future alumni.” Thomas L. Stepp Secretary, Board of Trustees “Over the last decade I have had the pleasure of working with a broad range of student organizations and student leaders at several major research universities, and without question the most engaged, most successful group has been Student Government at Carolina. The excellent working relationship between Student Government, Faculty Senate, and the administration is built on the foundation of shared commitments to academic excellence and student success, and it is from that foundation that we have been partners for progress.” Dr. Mark Becker University Provost “Working with Student Government officers Tommy Preston, Ryan Holt and Jennifer Guest has been truly gratifying. As advocates for students, these officers displayed a rare combination of passion, persistence and patience, and I attribute many of their successes to these qualities, as well as their desire to understand and participate in administrative processes for the good of the student body and the good of the university. They have never failed to impress university administrators with their talents, and they will leave a legacy of achievement I hope future student government officers will strive to emulate.” Dr. Dennis Pruitt Vice President for Student Affairs and Vice Provost for Academic Support “With all the success our University has enjoyed over the past year, I truly believe a large part is directly related to the very talented and dedicated leadership of our Student Government. Working together has not only provided positive responses to issues but has also set a new standard for student and sdministrative relationships.” Mr. Rick Kelly Vice President for Finance and CFO “This University, its students and alumni have been truly well served by Tommy Preston, Ryan Holt and Jennifer Guest...three of the most dedicated and talented student leaders I have ever had the pleasure to know. This impressive trio has worked well with the University faculty and staff to make the University better for today’s students as well as the students of tomorrow. The progress made in the past year is impressive and paves the way for the future.” Brad Choate Vice President for University Advancement
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007
what others say about sg
“The USC Athletics Department has enjoyed a wonderful relationship with the USC Student Government. They have been very helpful to us with student input concerning issues in athletics that impact the student body. Their willingness to contribute and the leadership of the SG has been instrumental in the development of good rapport between the SG and the Athletics Department.” Coach Eric Hyman Athletics Director “USC Student Government is an important partner in the university’s progress. Whether it was Innovista or the undergraduate research initiative, Student Government was active in conceiving and executing our shared agenda.” Dr. Harris Pastides Vice President for Research and Health Services “The greatest task a person can undertake is to serve others. One of the most challenging and demanding service roles is the public service of an elected official. The 2006-2007 Student Body Officers at the University of South Carolina have embodied the servant leadership role model. Through their efforts hundreds of students have been empowered to participate in institutional governance. This participation has accomplished many tasks such as the grade forgiveness policy, campus safety enhancements, congressional advisory board and many others. As the mantle is passed to the next group of leaders, a high standard of service and excellence as been established in the Carolina heritage.” Mr. Jerry T. Brewer Associate Vice President for Student Affairs/ Student Life/Development Student Government Advisor “Working with Student Government this year has been a tremendously positive experience, one in which I’ve learned from President Tommy Preston and his colleagues in Student Government what really matters to students. Most importantly, their approach to issues has always been constructive, offering alternatives, and seeking solutions that serve the interests of students and the University equally. I have been particularly pleased with their focus on student health issues and their understanding of the relationship of students’ health to their academic success.” Dr. Gene Luna Associate Vice President for Student Affairs Student Development and University Housing “I have had the opportunity to work closely with Student Government. SG has been interested in enhancing library facilities and services for the student body. Because of student interest and support seating was expanded on the main floor of the Thomas Cooper Library and a 24 hour operation put into place this past year with special funding from the Provost. SG, and particularly President Tommy Preston, supported this initiative. Mr. Preston is also working with the Thomas Cooper Library to place expensive textbooks on reserve for student use. It seems to me that SG working with the various levels of University administration gives credibility to the saying that, “None of us are as smart as all of us.” Dr. Paul Willis Dean, University Libraries
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.
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Office of Student Government & Student Organizations Russell House, Room 227 • Columbia, SC 29208 803.777.2654• stgov@gwm.sc.edu
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Student Government Annual Report 2006-2007