The Blue & White Flash April 20, 2017

FL A S H THE BLUE & WHITE

The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi

www.thejsuflash.com

INSIDE

Vol. 77 / No. 23 OPINION

S G A P re s i d e n t F a re w e l l page 3

April 20, 2017

VA R I E T Y

NEWS

Flash Staff Farewells page 5

SGA Thanks to students page 4

NEWS

S G A re v i s e d constitution page 6

Graphic: William H. Kelly, III

Mike Espy (L) and DeMarco Morgan(R), 2017 Jackson State University commencement speakers.

Mike Espy and DeMarco Morgan to speak at 2017 graduate and undergraduate commencements Special to the Flash M i k e E s py a n d D e Ma rc o Mor g a n will deliver c om m e n c e m e nt s p e e c h e s t o a l m o s t 1 0 0 0 2 0 1 7 Ja c k s on St at e Un i v e r s it y g r a du at e s du r i n g t h e 1 4 0 t h s pr i n g g r a du at i on e x e rc i s e s .

E s py, w h o w i l l d e l i v e r t h e a d d re s s at t h e g r a du at e c e re m ony, c u r re nt l y w or k s a s a pr i v at e s e c t or att or n e y, c ou n s e l or, a n d a g r i c u ltu r a l a d v i s or, h av i n g h i s ow n l aw a n d c on s u lt i n g f i r m s : M i k e E s py, P L L C , a n d A E Ag r it r a d e , In c .

He w a s app oi nt e d by P re s i d e nt B i l l C l i nt on t o s e r v e a s t h e 2 5 t h S e c re t a r y of Ag r i c u ltu re .

E s py n ow k e e p s bu s y a s p e a k e r a n d l e c tu re r, a n d i s f re q u e nt l y a s k e d t o c om m e nt on c u r re nt p o l it i c a l , e c on om i c , l e g a l a n d s o c i a l t opi c s . He h a s app e a re d on “Ni g ht l i n e”, t h e “A B C Ni g ht l y Ne w s”, t h e “ To d ay S h ow ”, a n d v a r i ou s ot h e r t e l e v i s i on n e w s pro g r a m s .

He has also been f e at u re d i n a h o s t of

n at i on a l m a g a z i n e s a n d periodicals.

Mor g a n is a 2001 Ja c k s on St at e a lu m nu s a n d c u r re nt l y w or k s a s a C B S Ne w s c or re s p on d e nt a n d a n c h or. A v e r s at i l e re p or t e r a n d a n c h or, h e h a s re p or t e d on a w i d e r a n g e of e v e nt s , f rom t h e f i r s t n at i on a l r a l l y a f t e r t h e s h o ot i n g d e at h of Tr ay v on Ma r t i n t o P re s i d e nt O b a m a’s s e c on d i n au g u r at i on .

Mor g a n j oi n e d CBS Ne w s f rom W X IA T V i n At l a nt a , w h e re h e h a d b e e n a re p or t e r a n d c o a n c h or of t h e s t at i on’s 5 p. m . , 6 p. m . a n d 1 1 p. m . w e e k d ay n e w s c a s t s s i n c e 2 0 1 2 . Hi s e f f or t s e a r n e d h i m a S out h e a s t e r n E m my n om i n at i on f or best a n c h or.

Mor g a n’s i nv e s t i g at i v e re p or t i n g i n At l a nt a on t h e i n f a m ou s Hou s e of P r ay e r s re s u lt e d i n t h e c onv i c t i on of a n a c c u s e d c h i l d m o l e s t e r.

Hi s e x t e n s i v e c ov e r a g e on t h e i mp a c t of H I V /

A I D S on A f r i c a n - A m e r i c a n w om e n l e d t o hu n d re d s of p e op l e g e tt i n g t e s t e d f or the deadly virus.

Int e r i m P re s i d e nt R o d Pa i g e w i l l pre s i d e ov e r t h e g r a du at e c om m e n c e m e nt at 6 p. m . Fr i d ay, Apr i l 2 8 , i n t h e L e e E . Wi l l i a m s At h l e t i c s a n d As s e mb l y C e nt e r on the main c a mpu s and ov e r the u n d e r g r a du at e c e re m ony at 8 a . m . S at u rd ay, Apr i l 2 9 , at M i s s i s s ippi Ve t e r a n s Me m or i a l St a d iu m . “ We app l au d ou r g r a du at e s f or a c h i e v i n g t h i s s i g n i f i c a nt m i l e s t on e n ot on l y i n t h e i r a c a d e m i c c a re e r s but in their p e r s on a l l i v e s a s w e l l . It i s i mp or t a nt t h at w e c e l e br at e their a c c omp l i s h m e nt s a n d l e t t h e m k n ow t h e y h av e ou r w e l l - w i s h e s a n d on g oi n g s upp or t a s t h e y c ont i nu e t o c a r v e out n e w s u c c e s s e s a n d re a c h n e w h e i g ht s ,” s a i d Pa i g e .

“O ur underg radu ate sp e a ker, D eMarco Morgan, is pro of of t he va lue of a Jacks on St ate

Univers it y d eg re e. He has accomplishe d mu ch in a shor t sp an of t ime, and we k now our stu d ents c an rel ate to a fel l ow a lu m and w i l l le ar n f rom w hat he has to share,” Pai ge a d d e d.

Morgan re ceive d a b achelor’s deg re e in mass communic at ions f rom Jacks on St ate w it h honors in 2001 and went on to e ar n a master’s d eg re e in j our na lis m f rom C olu mbi a Univers it y in Ne w York .

Wh i le at C olu mbi a Univers it y, t he Tu ls a , Ok l a . nat ive was a Fre d Fr iend ly S chol ar and inter ne d at CBS Ne ws and 4 8 HOU R S. He j oine d C BS Ne ws in 2015 af te r work ing at st at ions in Ja ck s on, Miss ., Mi lwau ke e, Mi am i, At l ant a and Ne w York .

“Miss iss ippi nat ive Mi ke E spy li ke w is e d emonst r ates t hat pl ace of or ig in has no limit on success . His rol e as a memb er of t he Unite d St ates c abinet u nd er for mer Pres ident Bi l l C l inton shou ld encou r age ou r student s to re a ch out and YES, WE’RE SOCIAL!

embr a ce publ ic s er v ice as t he y push for ward into t he workpl a ce,” Paige s aid.

B or n in Ya z o o C it y, Miss ., E spy re ceive d a l aw d eg re e f rom Sant a C l ar a L aw S cho ol, C a l ifor ni a , in 1 9 7 8 and t hen j oine d C ent r a l Miss iss ippi L ega l S er v ices as manag ing attor ne y.

E spy was f irst el e c te d to C ong ress in 1 9 8 6 and s er ve d on t he Ag r ic u ltu re and Bu d get com m itte es . He was app ointe d s e cret ar y of ag r ic u ltu re on Jan. 2 2 , 1 9 9 3 , and is t he f irst p ers on of Af r ic an- Amer ic an d es cent to hol d t he of f ice.

Gr a du at ion exercis es w i l l be open to the public.

In addition, Livestream web c ast will prov id e v ie w ing of t he ceremony at w w w.l ivest re am .com / j a ck s onst ate u.

For more infor mat ion, cont a c t Univers it y C om mu nic at ions at 6 0 1 979-2272.

Al e x andr i a G alt ne y cont r ibute d to thi s stor y.

@thejsuflash

Tiger Events

Page 2 - April 20, 2017

The Blue & White Flash

The Blue & White Flash Jackson State University P.O. Box 18449 Jackson, Mississippi 39217 Phone: 601.979.2167 / Fax: 601.979.2876 E-Mail: theflash@jsums.edu

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The Blue & White Flash Staff SHANNON D. TATUM Publications Manager

KIERRA D. THOMAS Graphic Designer

WILLIAM H. KELLY III Editor- in-Chief

ALEXANDRIA GALTNEY Managing Editor

Morgan Beard Brittany Bullock Jarrod Dorsey Rhis Harris Kendria Haley Muhammad Hassan Chelsey Jones

Letters To The Editor

Letters to the editor are welcome. Editors reserve the right to print or reject for publication any letters received. Letters must include the author’s name(s), address, and phone number; phone number will not be published. All letters are subject to editing for space and libel consideration. Materials must be submitted by Monday at 5 p.m. for publication on Thursday.

Editorial Staff

Kennedy Jones Kalin Norman Carlton Shirley Aliyah Tipton Aaron Walker Jennifer Wiles Brittney Williams

The Blue & White Flash is open to contributions from all Jackson State University students. We encourage all students, regardless of major and/or classification, to participate in the production of their newspaper. For information concerning your contribution to “The Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University,” call 601-979-2167 or visit room 211 in the Blackburn Language Arts Building.

Publication/Distribution Information

The Blue & White Flash is a weekly newspaper written and edited by the students with the counsel of the adviser. Editorials and letters to the editor represent the views of the writer(s). Views expressed within do not necessarily represent the opinions of the faculty/staff, the administration, the student body, or the Board of Trustees. The editors determine the time of the publication and the ethical qualities of all articles. Articles and other materials in The Flash cannot be republished without the expressed written permissions of the editor, adviser and the Student Publications Board at Jackson State University. The Flash is published during the fall and spring semesters, but not during university-recognized holidays, mid-semester and final examinations. The Flash is distributed at various locations around the Jackson State University campus, free of charge to students, staff and faculty. Additional copies may be obtained from the Office of Student Publications.

Awards & Honors The Blue & White Flash has received numerous awards and honors from the Mississippi Press Association, Black College Communications Association and the Southern Regional Press Institute. The Flash proudly hosted the 2003 and 2010 HBCU Newspaper Conference and Job Fair at Jackson State University.

Subscription Information

Subscription rates for The Blue & White Flash are 25 issues for $25 or the special alumni rate of 25 issues for $20. To subscribe to the Official Student Newspaper of Jackson State University, submit your name, address, city, state, and zip code. Make a check or money order payable to The Blue & White Flash and mail to address above.

Opinion

Page 3 - April 20, 2017

The Blue & White Flash

2016-2017 SGA President says farewell to JSU Greetings, As I sit back and reflect on my time here at JSU, I think to myself, I would not trade this time for anything in the world. My experiences in my first three years truly gave me a passion for my university and the student body.

Over the past year, I have had the honor of sitting in a seat that has been pursued by many, yet filled by few.

It is truly a blessing and a great achievement.

This year has been one full of ups and downs, one full of transitions, one with various hurdles. With all that being said, it is one that I wouldn’t trade

Farewell from...

Kendall Bunch 2016-2017 SGA President

for anything, and I must elaborate on why.

JSU is here to ‘Challenge Minds and Change Lives’ and that is not simply in a classroom.

My life is forever changed for the better by the challenges I have faced this year.

This year, one of my strongest desires was to better the infrastructure of our Student Government Association, and I believe I have made tremendous strides by revising our constitution, implementing the first Mr. Jackson State University, and creating a President and Vice President ticket which we

hope leads to a more unified body.

We have been fortunate to be able to collaborate with so many across this campus and create events such as the Midnight Breakfast and much more.

To the students, you all made everything worthwhile and for that I thank you!

Jackson State University is full of unique, talented individuals who I believe will do amazing things both here and afar. It is my hope that through this year you have experienced in some form or fashion, an impact made my the SGA. It is also my hope that I

have been a president that inspires others to have a voice, and know that if I did it they can too.

No, it cannot all be done in one year, but I believe JSU students and the SGA are in great hands under Ms. Alexis Moore & Mr. Asean Davis and I truly wish them the best.

To the student body, again I say thank you for your love and support through my term.

Thank you & God Bless The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Miss JSU says goodbye to Jackson State University Greetings My Tiger Family!

This has truly been a journey worth experiencing.

During my reign as Miss Jackson State University, my events accumulated over 100 community service hours for students.

I hosted in conjunction with organizations on campus, a community service opportunity called “Packages of Care”. For this project students, donated clothing and toiletries and we made care packages for the homeless to donate to Stew Pot. I also provided the opportunity for JSU students to speak to students at Boyd

Elementary about how to be a successful student and why college is important.

As your queen, I held empowering and fun events such as a Women’s Empowerment Tea, Thee Real TV show Forum, Girls Only Slumber Party and a JSU Field Day. My proudest moment as Miss Jackson State University is when I went to Greenville, Miss. to an event called “Pamper Me Spa Retreat”.

There I had a chance to speak to young ladies ages 10-18 and show them that dreams come true, no matter what type of environment you may have grown up in.

Farewell from 2016-2017 Miss JSU

It felt so good to share my story with young women who may not understand that what they are experiencing now is only shaping and molding them for their successful future.

Thank you so much JSU for all the love and support throughout all of my events and my reign! I love you all dearly.

Royally yours, Your 77th Miss Jackson State University

The views expressed in the commentary are those of the writer(s) and in no way represent the views of The Blue & White Flash.

Destiney Lawrence, 2016-2017 Miss Jackson State University

“How has Jackson State University impacted your life?”

Compiled by Alexandria Galtney

Cametria Payne Junior Graphic Design Memphis, Tenn.

Demond Lewis Sophomore Mass Communication Jackson, Miss.

Melik Gooden Sophomore Psychology Shelby, Miss.

Garth Cahill Junior Civil Engineering South Africa

Jocelyn Henderson Senior Criminal Justice Jackson, Miss.

“JSU has impacted me to be a better graphic designer and artist.”

“Jackson State has impacted me by opening my eyes and exposing me to many different cultures.

It’s all about unification.”

Naysa Lynch Freshman Management St. Thomas, V.I.

“JSU was the first institution of higher learning that accepted my application.

Since attending JSU, the people and new knowledge have been excellent.”

“JSU has helped me mature and grow as a person. It has offered me more opportunities and has opened doors for me.”

“I am proud to say that as I come to the end of my first year in college, I have made my time here worthwhile by getting involved.”

“I have experienced growth in myself and my character. I am a member of the Gamma Rho Chapter of AKA. JSU has given me responsibility.”

Schylonda Steen Senior

Healthcare Admin.

Jackson, Miss.

“Jackson State is helping me to finish my education.

I am not a traditional student, but JSU has been considerate of that.”

Cameron Lemon Junior Mass Communications Jackson, Miss.

Breia Armstrong Senior Social Work Jackson, Miss.

Jaclyn Bush Theatre Missouri Senior

Devin Heidelberg Freshman Accounting Jackson, Miss.

Lorenzo Smith Junior

“Jackson State has taken me in and treated me like family. Even though I’m a transfer student and this is just my second semester, it almost feels as if I started here my freshman year.”

“By giving me strength and power to control my destiny. Teaching me patience and setting new standards for responsibility and goals.”

“Jackson State has impacted my life by changing my outlook on the world and allowed me to make lifelong friends.”

“Jackson State has impacted my life by showing me how to better manage time, become a better leader, and to love the skin I am in.”

“Jackson State has impacted my life in a positive way. I transferred from USM so I got to experience a PWI first and I realized an HBCU is a better fit for me.”

Mass Communication

Natchez, Miss.

SGA Thanks

Page 4 - April 20, 2017

The Blue & White Flash

SGA members say thank you to Jackson State students

1.

3.

2.

5.

4.

6.

Photos provided by Mea Ashley

1) SGA officials participating in various events during the 2016-2017 school term.

Sapphire McCray - Miss Senior 2016-2017

Jerry L. Rogers II - Mr. Senior 2016-2017 To my JSU FAM17Y, I appreciated my journey to the crown, but the real journey started once I obtained it. While wearing my crown, my journey was one of selflessness, learning, and serving.

First, thank you to my FAM17Y for granting me this ELITE opportunity.

Secondly, thank you to my Royal family (HRE) for assisting me every step of the way and establishing a bond like no other.

Last but not least, thank you to my queen, Sapphire McCray, for protecting her king like the queen of a

chess game would.

During my reign, I hosted over five community service events that accumulated over 30 community service hours.

These events included: Boo at the Zoo, Smoothie Talk at Whitten Middle School, Zoo Clean Up, Organization Fair Clean Up, Smoothie Talk II at Whitten Middle School, and etc.

Now my journey has come to an end and I end it with much pride and a sense of accomplishment. Stay tuned to figure out how my journey after the crown will go!

Greetings my blue and white tiger striped FAM17Y! It has b e en an este eme d pr iv i lege for me to s er ve as your 2016-2017 Miss S enior.

As your que en, I have prov ide d over 20 hours to not on ly our cl ass, but a ls o t he ent ire student b o dy.

I st ar te d t he ye ar of f in S eptemb er w it h a 3-d ay e vent a longside Mister S enior.

We gave s er v ice to t he c ampus by cle aning up t he pl aza af ter an organizat ion fair, t he

Ne at Us ed Things (NUT S) t hr if t shop, an on campus Bre ast C ancer Wal k, and an ongoing mentorship wit h B ar r E lement ar y.

My most not able e vent was t he Bre ast C ancer Awareness Fashion show.

Not only were we able to rais e awareness for bre ast cancer and col lec t nonp er ishable items, but we had t he opp or tunity to showcas e t he t alents

De’Arimus Smith - Mr. Sophomore 2016-2017 Gre etings my fellow Notorious S ophomores!

It has been a pleasure to serve as your Mr. Sophomore for the 20162017 academic year. As your king, I’ve hosted numerous service activities including a mentorship program with the youth of the JPS School District, volunteering at Stewpot, and tutoring future JSU Tigers.

My proudest moment as Mr. Sophomore was being

able to network with other HBCU Kings and Queens at the Leadership for Queens and Kings Conference as well as during Chat and Chews before every home football game.

Our class members have accumulated over 30 hours from the service opportunities that I provided.

Thanks for all your unwavering support throughout my reign.

Grant Broadway - Mister Freshman 2016 - 2017 To the Almighty 20, During my time as Mr. Freshman, I have provided around thirty community service hours towards our class. There might be even more because of the reoccurring community service opportunities that I provided with the nursing home.

Food drives, tutoring, helping children reach their full potential, and Almighty 20 class bonding characterized my reign in the Royal Court. Even today I’m planning to schedule more volunteer opportunities for those who want to take advantage of them. I also held a relationship

talk event that I felt I educated the public on how there are double standards in both sides of a relationship.

I enjoyed the time I served because my class was always eager to tell me what they needed.

The part I enjoyed the most was weird because it wasn’t when I was being a royal figure, but when I was giving community service opportunities.

All in all, I am sad this chapter is coming to a close but I am very excited to see what the new one brings; all I know is that whatever is next, I plan to be better than my last.

e ver yone to gain insig ht on w hat our mi lit ar y do es d ai ly, as wel l as, students in t he Ar my ROTC prog ram. There were 101 p ar t icip ants.

In Janu ar y of 2017, Mister S enior and I hoste d an e ven l arger pres ent at ion to midd le s cho ol students ab out t he b enef its of he a lt hy e at ing , including t he ent ire c ampus for volunte ers.

This was a ver y dif ferent exp er ience to me, but I t horoug h ly enj oye d it.

Than k you a l l for t he supp or t.

Jesslyn Course - Miss Junior 2016-2017

Asean Davis - Mister Junior 2016-2017 Greetings to the greatest class to grace the plaza – C/O 2018!

It has b een an honor to s er ve as Mister Junior for t he Gre at One Eig ht, and I hop e you guys have enjoyed my reign.

This ye ar I organized a multitude of s er vice e vents including “Ro ck and Sto ck” at t he Women’s in Cr isis C enter (WIC), a week long s er vice e vent at

communit y by pres ent ing to midd le s cho ol students t he b enef its of he a lt hy e at ing , and t he communit y by doing a cle anup at a lo c a l p ark.

Then I b egan to pl an an e vent ent it le d “B est of B ot h Worlds” in conjunc t ion w it h JSU Ar my ROTC and t he A lpha B et a C hapter of Phi B et a Sig ma Frater nit y, Inc. This was my proudest moment as Miss S enior.

I inv ite d t he ent ire c ampus to a PT s ession on Nov. 10, one d ay b efore Veterans’ D ay, in order for

of Jacks on St ate students.

B ot h designers and mo dels stepp ed up to t he plate, and made sure to make t he show was wor t hw hile.

I am extremely appreciative of t his opp or tunity t hat you guys have given me and I hop e I have pass ed along t he joys of s er vice.

Always rememb er to share your shine!

Greetings to the GREAT Class of 2018 It h a s b e e n an h on or to not only serve as Miss Junior 2016-2017 but also as Miss Sophomore 2015-2016 for our class.

As your queen, I went to speak to elementar y schools as well as hosting reading events at elementar y schools to teach them how

important education is.

This experience has been so humbling and I w o u l d n’ t t r a d e i t f o r anything in the world.

I have enjoyed being y o u r q u e e n a n d I ’m looking for ward to seeing what senior year has in store for all of us!

Thank you for your help and support!

Karimah Strawder - Miss Sophomore 2016-2017 Greetings to the Notorious Class of 2019, It i s w i t h g r e a t g r i e f that I say that my reign as Miss Sophomore has come to an end.

H o w e v e r, I am more than honored to thank my class for participating in my community service events such as Kids Kollege Thursdays, Stewpot, and the

C h i l d r e n’s M u s e u m .

This entire experience has been ver y humbling, and as your queen, I send my total gratitude to my class for putting me in this position.

Giving back to my community as well as this prestigious university is something instilled in me, and the role of Miss Sophomore helped to bring that out.

Through my projects, about 30 community ser vice hours could have been obtained to any student within my class.

I look for ward to s er ving Jacks on St ate in other capacities and continuing to be of ser vice to all mankind.

Once again, I thank you all for giving me t h i s o p p o r t u n i t y.

Yo u r Q u e e n

Tyhler Battle - Miss Freshman 2016 - 2017 Greetings to the class of 2020, This year at Jackson State has been absolutely wonderful.

I really have enjoyed serving you as Miss Freshman.

As your class queen, I have made so many memories with you all.

In the fall, I offered community ser vice hours at Little Ambassadors, tutoring 1st through 5th graders.

This was a recurring

opportunity that o c c u r r e d a l l s e m e s t e r.

I loved interacting with the kids in the Jackson community and helping them succeed in their studies.

I also went to the C h i l d r e n’s M u s e u m t o a s s i s t i n D r. S e u s s D a y.

I also got the chance to speak to High School students and hopefully I persuaded them that Jackson State is the road to take.

The event I enjoyed the most was my pillow

talk where girls from each class came and talked about things they have been through.

I think the night was ver y empowering.

I felt like I connected with so many of my peers on a more personal level.

Serving as your queen this year is an experience that I will never forget.

Thank you so much for all of you help and support this year!

The Blue & White Flash

Page 5 - April 20, 2017

Flash Farewells

Blue & White Flash senior staff members say farewell Dwayne Joseph, Jr. - Staff Writer/Videographer

It has b e en an honor and a pr iv i lege work ing at t he Blue and White Fl ash.

I want to t han k Ms. Tatum and Ms. Thomas for g iv ing me opp or tunit y af ter opp or tunit y to b etter my craf t in w r it ing .

I rememb er w hen I f irst b e c ame a Fl ash memb er and I did my f irst stor y.

I was a litt le shy and uncomfor t able at f irst but t he st af f memb ers of The Fl ash at t hat t ime made me fe el sp e ci a l and pushe d me into cre at ing s omet hing I c an c a l l my ow n.

When I s aw my name ont he f ront p age of t he 2014 O c tob er issue of The Blue and White Fl ash ne wsp ap er, my smi le lit up t he ro om and it st retche d f rom e ar to e ar.

I w ish not hing but t he b est and a l l of my love to The Fl ash b e c aus e I k now t he y w i l l cont inue to do g re at works in t he name of j our na lism.

On b eha lf of t he Gradu at ing C l ass of 2017, in t he words of Underg round R ai lro ad le ader Har r iet Tubman, “We O ut!”

Gerald Harris - Staff Writer

I’m fighting find words to express my gratitude to the School of Journalism, and the Blue and White Flash.

Jackson State will forever be in my heart.

My father taught me “It’s never bye, it’s always see you later.” I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned, academically and in my personal life during my matriculation here at Jackson State University.

I have had the opportunity to be published, win AP awards, and anchor the student Newscast. I was able to intern at two station in a

Aliyah Tipton - Staff Writer

Well, it’s about that time.

Ms. Tatum, thank you for giving me a chance. What began as a class assignment blossomed into a weekly routine. You saw something in my writing and allowed me to join the writing staff. I appreciate that! I wish I would have joined the team sooner!

I would also like to thank every single one of my professors that I have had since my freshman year, 2013 to 2017.

I appreciate those of you who challenged and pushed me to my fullest potential, especially you, Dr. Neasman.

Thank you to my advisor

since my sophomore year, Dr. Smith-Spears.

Thank you to Professor Bonnie L. Jackson and Professor Jaime McNair. I appreciate you women very much!

To my women in the Community Service and Career Service Center at Jackson State, thank you!

Special thanks to Ms. Harris for giving me an opportunity and helping me get to where I am now.

Finally, I just want to thank any and every one who has played a role in my college career. Whether you gave advice, a shoulder to cry

Jeremy Anderson - Editor/Staff Writer

When I graduated from high school in 2013, I was smart, witty, and quite selfdisciplined. However, I was still very uncultured, sheltered and had no true sense of my own selfidentity.

After spending a year playing football at another university, I decided to transfer to Jackson State to continue playing. Shortly after fall camp in 2014, my cousin sent me a picture of a flyer advertising a

meeting for potential staff writers for the Blue and White flash.

In that meeting, I was introduced to the Student Publications team and when they found out I played football, they told me I’d be a perfect fit to keep coverage on the football team.

From then on, I began to truly discover myself. I started to recognize that I was unaware of so many of

top 30 media market because of JSU. To my former professors and instructors, I appreciate your dedication and support.

To the kind friendships I’ve made; I appreciate your encouragement.

In next phase of my life and collegiate career I will be a candidate for a Master’s of Science Degree in Journalism at the Medill School at Northwestern University.

To those who are reading this; I pray that you gain all the success in the world.

To those coming after me, remember only you

can make your life better.

The decisions you make today, will determine your tomorrows.

I cannot close without a bit of journalism advice.

Journalism can never be silent: that is its greatest virtue and its greatest fault.

It must speak, and speak immediately, while the echoes of wonder, the claims of triumph and the signs of horror are still in the air.

-Henry Anatole Grunwald Remember Fact is Fact whether you like it or not.

God Bless, Gerald Harris

Brittney Williams - Staff Writer/Videographer

on, took me to church with you, or helped me with my homework, anything of that nature. Even if we no longer communicate, I still thank you.

Whether you built me up or tore me down, you helped mold and shape me into the woman I am today.

Last but definitely not the least. To my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ… Thank You for never giving up on me.

You stuck by me while I was trying to find myself, and you continue to stick by me as the search continues. I love you.

Until we meet again…

Aliyah. Out. my interests and untapped potential that my mind began expanding, and I began to evolve into the young man I am today.

I would leave practice and rush to The Flash newsroom just to hear the topic of conversation for the day. Taylor Bembery (the best Flash editor ever!) would talk about all the kinds of topics that were yet to be written about.

There were so many potential stories about headlines, politics, culture, music, local affairs, university affairs, feature stories, opinion pieces, and the list goes on.

For the first time in my life, I was challenged to think about all of that.

Never before had I been exposed to so many people with so many interests than my first year at JSU with The Blue and White Flash.

I took on the task and began passionately writing about anything I thought was interesting.

That experience alone prepared me for what would be the most transformative three years of my life here at JSU and there’s no way an article can contain the weight of gratitude I have for this university.

To the Blue and White Flash and to Jackson State University, thank you so much for this experience that I will hold near and dear to my heart forever.

It s e e m s l i k e it w a s ju s t y e s t e rd ay I s t a r t e d my c o l l e g e c a re e r at J SU. T h e s e l a s t f ou r y e a r s h av e g on e by f a s t .

I w a nt t o t h a n k my f r i e n d s . You g u y s h av e b e c om e my f a m i l y ov e r t h e s e l a s t 4 y e a r s . B e c au s e of y ou , t h i s i s h om e .

To my prof e s s or s , t h a n k y ou f or a l l t h e

k n ow l e d g e a n d w i s d om y ou h av e g i v e n m e i n a n d out of c l a s s .

T h a n k y ou t o t h e F l a s h f a m i l y f or h e lpi n g m e g row a s a j ou r n a l i s t .

Wit h out J SU I d on’t t h i n k I w ou l d b e t h e p e r s on I a m t o d ay.

Love, Br itt n e y S . Wi l l i ams Multimedia Journalist

Jorrie Jones - Editor/Staff Writer

As I approach my last fall semester as an undergraduate at Thee Jackson State University, I can’t help but think about the true meaning of family. Coming from the city of Tulsa, Okla., Jackson State has definitely marked their place in my heart from the beginning as a freshman during the Fall 2013.

I have been involved in many organizations here and held many positions over the past 4 years; however, I have to be honest, when Ms. Shannon Tatum approached me with the offer of managing editor for the eXperience Magazine, I was really honored. Taking on this position has allowed me to find my passion for writing again and I have been blessed to work with such a beautiful

staff and second editor!

My first year with The Blue & White Flash family was nothing less than amazing. From scattering around on deadline day to delivering the newspapers on Thursday mornings, I would not change any of it one bit. I am so grateful for the opportunities Student Publications have given me and for the student body at JSU for continuing to support my work.

I will always remember sitting across from Ms. Tatum and Ms. Thomas at the first interest meeting explaining my reasons for joining the family and to come as far as hosting this year’s interest meeting, I’m beyond impressed.

The Flash saw something in me that I did not see in myself and I will always be thankful for each relationship.

To THEE Elite Class of 2017, I will continue to do my best to report your news and be the voice for you.

Thank you for shaping me into the woman I am and for making my undergraduate eXperience unbelievable!

From the ups and downs, JSU has stuck together and stood up when it was time to show the world what we can do, that is what makes us family.

May God continue to bless us all and the rest of the year is even more amazing!

JSU SGA Constitution Revisions PREAMBLE We, the undergraduate students of Jackson State University, do ordain and establish this Constitution of the Jackson State University Student Government Association, in order to contribute to the intellectual growth and welfare of each undergraduate student attending this institution; to further educational, cultural, ethical and social activities of student life; encourage a clear and continuous exchange of ideas between the undergraduate students, university faculty, administration and the community; and to instill appreciation, respect, and progress for the aims and objectives of Jackson State University.

Section 1.

Name

ARTICLE I NAME AND OBJECTIVES The name of this organization shall be the Jackson State University Student Government Association and shall also in this text be referred to as the SGA. Jurisdiction All undergraduate students, both full-time and part-time at Jackson State University shall be the constituents of the SGA. Both elected and appointed SGA officials shall be subject to this Constitution, its By-Laws, and the Statutes of the SGA. The SGA does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, gender, sexual orientation, religion, nationality, age, disability, or marital status.

Section 2. Objectives The objectives of the SGA officials shall be to: A. B. social, C.

Be diligent in effort, persistent in action, and sacrifice for the betterment of the collective whole, instead of the select few Provide members of the SGA the means in which they may express themselves effectively in the programs of the university that affect their economic, physical, intellectual and spiritual welfare.

Regulate and administer the SGA budget.

D. Represent the student body on ceremonial and official occasions.

E.

Represent the opinion of the student body through membership on University committees.

F.

Promote students’ rights and responsibilities.

G. Promote academic freedom and academic responsibilities.

ARTICLE II GENERAL ORGANIZATION Section 1. Membership of the SGA The membership of the SGA shall consist of the student body enrolled as full- time undergraduates at Jackson State University and elected to the Executive Branch, Judicial Branch, Legislative Branch, Class Branch, and the Royal Court.

Section 2. Entities of the SGA The SGA officials shall be organized into the following five branches: A. Executive B. Judicial C. Legislative D. Class E.

Royal Court

Section 3.

General Guidelines of SGA Officials

No official of the SGA may serve in more than one of these aforementioned branches at any one time with exception of the SGA Vice President, Chief Justice, Mister and Miss Jackson State University, Class Presidents, Class Senators and Royal Court, whose positions require them to serve simultaneously on the Executive and Legislative Branch, the Judicial and Executive Branches, the Royal Court and Executive Branch, the Class and Executive Branch, the Class and Legislative Branch, and Royal Court and Class Branch respectively. All officials of the SGA shall not be on any type of disciplinary, scholastic or attendance probation at time of election or during his/her term of office. All SGA officers, whether elected or appointed, must have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.9 and full-time status as an undergraduate student while in office or they will be immediately removed.

Section 4. Definition of All Meetings within the SGA This section describes the attendees, topics of discussion, and frequencies of the following meetings: A. General Student Body Meetings - a meeting where officials gather with the members of the student body to obtain information about the welfare of the SGA and its activities. This meeting will also address issues and concerns of the student body. This meeting must be held at least once a month.

B. SGA Officials Only Meeting - a meeting where all officials of the SGA to discuss issues, concerns and other items within the SGA so that its members are on one accord and working simultaneously. This meeting must be held at least once a month and occur before the General Student Body Meeting is held. If this meeting does not occur before hand, the General Student Body Meeting should not take place until a SGA Officials Only Meeting has taken place.

C. Special Meetings - a meeting that takes place in the event of an emergency, regarding issues concerning a specific branch, the SGA officials, or members of the student body. This meeting can be called at the discretion of the SGA President, SGA Vice President, Chief Justice, Mister and Miss Jackson State University, or any Class President.

D. Executive Branch Meetings - a meeting with the executive officers discussing their plans, issues, and concerns regarding the academic year. This meeting must occur at least twice a month and be scheduled before the elected officials’ academic term begins.

E. Legislative Branch Meetings - The Senate shall meet at least two (2) times each month of the academic year. Meetings should occur on the first and third week of every month on a day approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote of student senate currently in office. At least one meeting a month should be open to the public. It is up to the discretion of the SGA Vice President which meeting will be open.

F. Judicial Branch Meetings- The description and frequency for each meeting regarding this specific branch is indicated in Article V Section 9.

G. Class Branch Meetings- The description and frequency for each meeting regarding this specific branch is indicated in Article VI Section 12.

H. Royal Court Meetings- The description and frequency for each meeting regarding a specific branch or council is indicated in Article VII Section 9.

Section 5. Attendance Policy – refer to Bylaws A. All SGA officials are required to attend all scheduled and special SGA meetings, General Student Body meetings, and participate in all SGA functions and activities that are mandated by the SGA President, as well as all meetings scheduled for their branch.

B. In regard to absences: 1. Each officer is allowed two unexcused absences a semester.

2. For each office hour missed, officers shall be assessed a half (1/2) absence. Each officer is required to complete five (5) office hours every week.

3. In the case of an absence the officer should notify the SGA President and Executive Secretary at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting or activity.

4. Absences may be excused if a letter is submitted to the SGA President and Executive Secretary within in 24 hours of the meeting and deemed excusable by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the class council (elected officers), excluding the Officer in question.

Section 1.

Executive Authority

ARTICLE III EXECUTIVE BRANCH All executive powers granted herein shall be vested in the SGA President and assisted by the SGA Vice President, Chief Justice, Executive Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Executive Assistant Secretary, Senior Class President, Junior Class President, Sophomore Class President, and Freshman Class President, and Mister and Miss Jackson State University, and the advisement of the SGA President’s Cabinet to assist only the President.

Section 2. Organization The Executive Branch shall consist of the SGA President, SGA Vice President, Executive Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Executive Assistant Secretary, Chief Justice, Senior Class President, Junior Class President, Sophomore Class President and Freshman Class President, Mister and Miss Jackson State University.

Section 3. Elections and Appointments of the Executive Branch A. The SGA President, SGA Vice President, SGA Chief Justice, Executive Business Manager, Executive Secretary, and Executive Assistant Secretary shall be elected according to majority of votes cast by the Student Body.

B. The elected candidate for SGA President must have successfully completed a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University as a full-time student being on campus three semester prior. Additionally, the candidate for SGA President must have held an elected position on the Executive, Legislative, or Judicial for at least one term prior to his/her candidacy. The position of SGA President requires commitment and therefore, he/she shall not hold the presidency of any other organization during his/her term of office C. The SGA Vice President must have a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University three semester prior as full-time student. They shall have served at least one full elected or appointed term on the Legislative Branch prior to his/her candidacy.

D. The Executive Business Manager must have a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester

of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University three semester prior as a full-time student.

E. The Executive Secretary must have a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University three semester prior as a full-time student.

F. The Executive Assistant Secretary must have a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University three semester prior as a full-time student.

G. The SGA Chief Justice must have a minimum of 60 credit hours and a maximum of 126 credit hours by the end of that Spring semester of being elected into office and have been enrolled at Jackson State University three semester prior as full-time student. They shall have served at least one full elected or appointed term on the Judicial Branch prior to his/her candidacy.

H. All elected or appointed executive officers shall serve a full elected term of one year in SGA prior to candidacy.

I. Appointed executive officers must have completed at least two semesters and a minimum of 60 credit hours. They shall be nominated by the SGA President and approved by the Senate by a two-thirds (2/3) vote.

Section 4. Duties and Powers of the SGA President The SGA President shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Submit to the Senate for approval of his/her proposed budget for the year.

B. Appoint executive officers and assistants with concurrence of a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate currently in office.

C. Remove any officer he/she has appointed with reasonable cause.

D. Recommend with reasonable cause the removal of elected officers.

E.

Service as ex-officio member of all executive committees within the SGA.

F.

Appoint executive standing committees, ad-hoc committees, and cabinet members.

G. Call special meeting of the Senate, if necessary.

H. Call and preside over meetings of the executive branch at his/her discretion.

I. Bring before the Judicial Branch charges against any Senate approved organization for violation of provisions governing the regulations of such organizations.

J. Veto Bills of Law passed by the Senate or certain portions thereof. If the SGA President does not veto such acts of the Senate within five business days after passage, such acts can and will become law.

K. Require, when requested, a written interpretation by the Judicial Branch on any provision of the SGA Constitution or its revisions.

L. Present to the Senate each semester a report on SGA activities.

M. On extraordinary occasions, call special meetings of the SGA at his/her discretion.

N. Administrate, enforce, and abide by the laws of the SGA. O. Call for a referendum of the student body when appropriate. The referendum must then be approved by a two-thirds (2/3) vote of Senate currently in office.

P. Officially represent the student body or designate a representative from the SGA to officially represent the Student Body at any function on the university’s main and satellite campuses and/or off campus.

Q. Prepare and submit orally and in writing a State of the SGA Address once per semester.

R. Serve as a delegate to the Mississippi Student Body Presidents Council.

S. Notify Judicial and Legislative Branches in writing of any officers who are not performing their duties as required by this Constitution with copies to the referred officers and appropriate advisors.

T.

Reside in a Residence Hall during his/her term as SGA President.

U. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 5.

Duties and Powers of the SGA Vice President

The SGA Vice President shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Execute the powers of the SGA President in his/her absence.

B.

Preside over the Senate in the following capacities:

1.

Supervise, conduct, and direct all Senate meetings.

2. Create committee(s) within the Legislative Branch as deemed necessary, assign Senate members to committee, and delegate responsibilities to its members.

3. Call special meetings of the Senate.

C. Assist the SGA President in general policy and administration of the Executive Branch and perform such duties as assigned him/her by the SGA President.

D. With the aid of the SGA President, recommend to the President of the University; appoint students to University-wide councils, committees, and boards with student seats.

E. Serve as a student liaison on the University Faculty Senate and Staff Senate.

F. Serve as a delegate to the Mississippi Student Body Presidents Council in the absence of the SGA President.

G. Keep and make available a permanent record of the SGA constitution.

H. Make a written and an oral report when called upon as to the state of the Legislative Branch and its proceedings to SGA President and Assistant Coordinator of Student Organizations.

I. Adhere to Attendance Policy.

Section 6.

Duties and Powers of the Executive Business Manager

The Executive Business Manager shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Serve as chairperson of the SGA Budget and Finance Committee.

B. Be responsible for relaying any information related to the SGA budget to the entire SGA. C. Present to the Senate and to have published in the official University newsletter (once per semester) all written financial reports of all activities supported by the SGA budget.

D. Establish with two-thirds (2/3) vote from the Senate currently in office, financial procedures provided elsewhere in this Constitution.

E. Review the financial condition of the SGA and submit monthly financial statements to the SGA President, the Senate, and the Assistant Coordinator of Student Organizations.

F. Sign all requisitions for all fund distribution of the SGA budget.

G. Make known to Executive Branch and planning committees such information related to the SGA budget that would be deemed common knowledge.

H. Serve as an ex-officio member of all committees appointed for the purpose of considering budgetary and/or financial matters of the Legislative Branch.

I. Conduct an inventory of all SGA property and submit a written report on the conditions and state of it to the Legislative Branch on or before their first regularly scheduled Senate meeting in October.

J. All unbudgeted expenditures by any department of the Student Government Association shall first be approved by the Senate and then authorized by the Business Manager. The business manager shall not disallow any expenditure approved by the Senate except those that would cause the Student Government Association a deficit balance.

K. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 7.

Duties and Powers of the Executive Secretary

The Executive Secretary shall have these specific duties and powers: A. With the aid of the SGA President and the Executive Assistant Secretary, prepare an agenda for each official/scheduled meeting.

B. Take the minutes for any meeting of the Executive Branch, SGA Officials Only, and General Student Body Meetings.

C. Must have minutes completed and distributed to the rest of the officials within 48 hours after each official/scheduled meeting.

D. Perform and assist in any task prescribed to him/her by the SGA President.

E. Make available to the Assistant Director of Student Leadership and Campus Life copies of minutes within 48 hours of meeting.

F. Keep a current and accurate file of all minutes from every branch (Executive, Legislative, Judicial, Class, and Royal Court), SGA Officials Only, and General Student Body Meetings.

G. Keep an accurate attendance record for Executive Branch meetings, SGA meetings, General Student Body meetings, and each SGA-sponsored event.

H. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 8.

Duties and Powers of the Executive Assistant Secretary

The Executive Assistant Secretary shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Assist the Executive Secretary with his/her assignments.

B.

Perform the duties of the Executive Secretary in his/her absence.

C. Follow all requests prescribed to him/her by the SGA President and/or Executive Secretary.

D. Make sure all members of the SGA are adhering to the Attendance Policy.

E. Keep and make available an accurate record of the minutes for the entire SGA in the absence of the Executive Secretary.

F. Serve as SGA Historian by keeping a scrapbook containing flyers, pictures, and programs of all SGA sponsored events.

G. Adhere to the Attendance Policy. Section 9.

The Oath of the Executive Branch Each executive officer shall repeat the following oath prior to assuming office:

“I, (name), do solemnly affirm to defend, uphold, and abide by the Constitution and Statutes of the Student Government Association and the policies of Jackson State University and faithfully execute the responsibilities of the Executive Branch to the best of my ability.”

This oath shall be administered by the SGA Chief Justice.

Section 10. Vacancies and Procedures for Filling Vacancies Vacancy for executive officers of the SGA shall occur if during any semester of the elected or appointed officer’s where he/she is not enrolled fulltime at Jackson State University, should resign, or become ineligible for office because of dropping of his/her cumulative GPA or impeachment.

A. If the office of SGA President becomes vacant, the SGA Vice President shall assume the office of SGA President.

B. If the office of Executive Business Manager, Executive Secretary, Executive Assistant Secretary, or SGA Chief Justice shall be vacant, the Election Commission shall interview and appoint such officers as deemed necessary.

Section 1.

Legislative Branch

ARTICLE IV LEGISLATIVE BRANCH The Legislative Branch shall be referred to as the Senate. All legislative powers of the SGA shall be vested in the Senate.

Section 2. Organization The Senate shall be composed of eighteen (18) voting Senators.

A. • • • • • • • • •

There should be two (2) senators from each of the five (5) Constituent Student Activity councils and two (2) senators from each class: Academic Council (2) Pan Hellenic Council (one male from a NPHC fraternity & one female from a NPHC sorority) (2) Religious Council (2) Residential Council (one male and one female) (2) Special Interest Council (2) Senior Class (2) Junior Class (2) Sophomore Class (2) Freshmen Class (2)

B. The SGA Vice President will serve as the President of the Senate. He/she shall only vote in the event of a tie of a majority vote only.

C. A President Pro-Tempore, Sergeant-at-Arms, and Legislative Secretary shall be elected from the members of the Senate. Each position shall be approved by two-thirds (2/3) vote of student senate currently in office.

D. The President Pro-Tempore shall serve as the official presiding officer over the Senate in the absence of the President of the Senate at legislative proceedings.

E. The Legislative Secretary shall serve as the official Secretary of the Senate. He/she shall record all minutes and submit copies to the Executive Secretary within 48 hours of legislative meetings.

F. The Sergeant-at-Arms will serve as the official Parliamentarian of the Senate in Legislative proceedings.

G. The Senate shall have powers to appoint other positions from within their own body, as it is deemed necessary.

Section 3. Elections and Appointments of the Legislative Branch A. Class organizations must elect two (2) senators. Each class will have two (2) votes, one (1) per senator. In the absence of a class senator, a class representative may serve in place of that senator with written permission of the Class President.

B. Constituent groups shall elect all other Senators during general elections, unless otherwise stated in this document.

C. Elected Senators must not have been convicted of a felony and can serve on only one council unless otherwise stated in this document.

D. Vacancies that occur due to resignation, dismissal, or extenuating circumstances of any Senator shall be filled upon recommendation of the Election Commission and approval by (2/3) vote of the Senate.

Section 4. Duties and Powers of the Senate The Senate shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Enact, by majority vote, the Constitution, by-laws, and Statutes.

B.

Propose any revisions to add to the SGA Constitution, Bylaws, and Statutes.

C. Provide for the compilation and publication of legislation.

D. Create such committees, as it is deemed necessary for proper conduct of its business.

E. Confirm all Presidential appointments with a two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate currently in office.

F. Impeach officers of the SGA by three-fourths (3/4) vote of the Senate. Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further than removal from office and disqualification to hold and obtain any other office within the SGA; however, the party impeached may be liable and subject to disciplinary hearing under the University Disciplinary Policy.

G. Make all laws that shall be necessary and proper for carrying out the functions and powers of the SGA as vested in it by this constitution.

H. Require at any regular meeting by majority vote, an explanation of any action taken by a Senate member or any member of the SGA taken in his/her official capacity.

I. Approve or disapprove the SGA budget as presented by the Executive Branch of SGA by three-fourths (3/4) vote of student senate currently in office.

J. Establish its own rules of proceedings, in accordance with this Constitution, its by- laws, and Robert’s Rules of Order.

K. Override a veto by the SGA President by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of Senate currently in office.

L. Establish means through which the Student Body may actively participate in the formulation of policies affecting them.

M. Ensure integrity and sound business practices in the expenditure and disbursement of funds by the SGA. N. Pass bills and resolutions, as it is deemed appropriate to assess the will or opinion of the Student Body concerning important topics.

O. Recommend charter to the Associate Provost for Student Affairs for subsidiary organizations as deemed necessary for the proper functioning of the government or the general welfare of the entire student body.

P. Adhere to the Attendance Policy. Section 5.

Senate Sessions Regular sessions of the Senate shall begin during the first week of classes of the Fall Semester and terminate the last week of regular classes of the Spring Semester.

Section 6. Quorum A quorum for holding a meeting and transacting general business shall consist of the presence of fifty percent (50%) plus one (1) of the voting members of the Senate currently in office. A quorum is required to conduct a vote. If absence of quorum is verified, the body may transact no business, with the exception of roll call, concerns, reports, recess, adjournment, and action to be taken to establish a quorum. Where indicated otherwise in this document, votes of 1/3, 2/3, 3/4 of the senate currently in office shall be observed for special items of business.

Section 7.

Limitation of Power

No law, act or charter of any type passed by the Senate shall be construed to limit or modify any powers granted by this constitution, except by Constitutional Amendment.

Section 8. Impeachment Process All SGA officers may be impeached for misfeasance, malfeasance and/or nonfeasance of duty, or action contrary to or in violation of this Constitution, the Statutes of Jackson State University, Demerit System and/or University Policy. Impeachment shall be effected by a three-fourths (3/4) vote of the student senate currently in office and may be instigated by one-third (1/3) of the Senate membership on petition.

The Judicial Branch sits as a Tribunal with the Chief Justice as the presiding officer. A full hearing shall be given to the accusers and to the defendant having the full right of council. If the Chief Justice is the accused party, the Associate Chief Justice shall preside over the impeachment proceedings.

Section 9. The Oath of the Legislative Branch Each Senate member shall repeat the following oath prior to assuming office: “I (name) do solemnly affirm to defend, uphold, and abide by the Constitution and Statutes of the Student Government Association and the policies of Jackson State University and faithfully execute the responsibilities of the Legislative Branch to the best of my ability.”

The SGA Chief Justice shall administer this oath.

Section 10. Vacancies Procedures for Filling Vacancies In case of resignation or impeachment of any elected or appointed Senator, there shall be a nomination by Election Commission; then after being sent to the Senate for an approval of two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate.

Section 1.

Judicial Authority

ARTICLE V JUDICIAL BRANCH The Judicial Branch shall be the disciplinary council. All judicial powers of the SGA shall be vested in the Judicial Branch and the authority as granted by virtue of the bylaws and constitution of the Jackson State University Student Government Association and President of Jackson State University.

Section 2. Organization The members of the Judicial Branch shall consist of a Chief Justice, Associate Chief Justice, and four (4) Student Justices. The Judicial Branch of the SGA shall consist of students, as elected by the student body and/or appointed by the SGA. and the chair of the Section 3. Elections and Appointments of Judicial Branch All potential candidates must: A. Attend a SGA Informational Meeting.

B. The candidate for Chief Justice should have served one year in the Judicial Branch.

C. The Judiciary Council shall compose of six (6) elected voting members: D. The student body shall elect a chief Justice and Associate chief Justice from previous judicial incumbents, if any.

E. In the absences of incumbents, all six (6) Justices will be elected in the Spring General Elections.

F. If the Chief Justice should vacate his/her position, the Associate Chief Justice becomes the chair and the Justice who has served the most terms would advance to Associate Chief Justice. The Election Commission will interview to fill the open Justice position. This appointment shall require twothirds (2/3) approval vote of student Senate currently in office.

Section 4. Duties and Powers of the Chief Justice The Chief Justice shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Serve as Administrative Officer of the Judicial Branch.

B. Assign duties among the Judicial Branch.

C. Supervise the administration of Justices and certain Committee Boards. Conduct and preside over committee proceedings.

D. Rule on procedural questions that arise during the course of the committee hearings.

E. Rule on the pertinence of evidence presented before the committee as established by statute.

F. Present oral and written recommendations of the committee to the accused individual(s).

G. Administer the oath of office to all appointed and elected student body officers with exception of him/herself.

H. Recommend measures to the Senate for the improvement of the administration of justice.

I. Submit all records of the Committee, in accordance with SGA and university rules and regulations, and deliver into the hands of the Assistant Provost for Student Affairs for storage, of all permanent records related to the decision, when affiliated with the SGA or student organizations.

J. Submit all records of the Committee, in accordance with SGA and university rules and regulations, and deliver into the hands of the Executive Secretary for storage, of all permanent records related to the decision, when affiliated with the SGA or student organizations.

K. Make a written, as well as oral report, as to the status of the Judicial Branch and its proceedings to the SGA President, Senate, Assistant Director of Student organizations, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and/or his/her designee.

L. Require any student governmental body to cease illegal or unconstitutional activities under this Constitution and its statues. If this body does not cease this illegal or unconstitutional activity, the members of this body will be subject to disciplinary action.

M. Require SGA officers to perform their duties as required under the Constitution or its Statutes.

N. Keep order of all Executive board meetings and official general student body meetings according to Robert’s Rules of Order.

O. Adhere to the attendance policy Section 5. Duties and Powers of the Associate Chief Justice The Associate Chief Justice shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Familiarize him/herself with the regulations concerning JSU students.

B. Assist the Chief justice in the interpretations of any provision of the constitution, by- lays and/or any law.

C. Preside over meeting and/or hearings in the absence of the Chief Justice.

D. Review all complaints with Chief Justice. Section 6.

Duties and Powers of the Student Justices The Student Justices shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Familiarize themselves with the regulations concerning SGA and Student Organizations.

B. Assist the Chief Justice in the interpretations of any provision of the constitution, by- lays and/or any law.

C. Preside over meeting and/or hearings in the absence of the Chief Justice and Associate Chief Justice.

D. Review all complaints with the Chief Justice.

E. In the event the Associate Chief Justice moves up in rank, then the current senate in office will vote for next Associate Chief Justice, choosing from the current student justices if they have all served for the same amount of time.

F. Issue a temporary Judicial Branch order that halts any specified activity for two (2) business days for the SGA governmental body, officer, or any student organization. The Judicial Branch must meet within 24 hours of the issuance of its injunction or this order shall become null and void.

Section 7. Jurisdiction The Judicial Branch shall have jurisdiction over these specific items: A. Cases and controversies involving questions of the constitutionality of actions by student governing groups, student organizations, and their representatives regarding this Constitution.

B. Conflicts between students, student groups, or organizations as requested by the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs.

C. Determination of consequences for students or student organizations in violation of the Student Handbook under the provisions of this Constitution.

Section 8. Hearing Process Students who will go before the Judicial Branch shall be notified in writing at least 48 hours prior to the date of the hearing. This notice shall contain a statement of the charges, the date, time, and place of the hearing; an explanation of the general procedure that will be followed; and an explanation of the student’s rights. The accused shall have the right to a speedy hearing, the right to a closed hearing upon written request and the right to appeal the decision of the Judicial Branch.

Section 9. Judicial Branch Meetings The chair shall have the authority to call meetings whenever such a time arises.

Section 10. Special Sessions The committee must meet within one week after a petition has been presented for consideration.

Section 11. Quorum The Judicial branch consist of the Chief Justice, Associate Chief Justice and four student justices; although all may serve at a particular hearing, only four are required if the Student Justices hear a case alone.

Section 12. Limitation of Powers No action of any type passed by the Judicial Branch shall be construed to limit or modify any of the powers granted by this constitution, except by constitutional amendment, or revised by University Administration.

Section 13. Impeachment Process All SGA members may be impeached for misfeasance, malfeasance and/or nonfeasance of duty, or action contrary to or in violation of this Constitution, the Statutes of Jackson State University, and/or University Policy. Impeachment shall be effected by a three- fourths (3/4) vote of student senate currently in office and may be instigated by one-third (1/3) of the Senate membership on petition.

The Judicial Branch shall sit as a Tribunal with the Chief Justice as the presiding officer. A full hearing shall be given to the accusers and to the defendant having the full right of council. If the Chief Justice is the accused party, the Associate Chief Justice shall preside over the impeachment proceedings.

Section 14. The Oath of the Judicial Branch Each member of the Judicial Branch shall repeat the following oath prior to assuming office.

“I (name) do solemnly affirm to defend, uphold, and abide by the Constitution and Statutes of the Student Government Association and the policies of Jackson State University and faithfully execute the responsibilities of the Judicial Branch to the best of my ability.”

Assistant Director of Campus Life & Student Leadership shall administer the oath of the SGA Chief Justice before the SGA Chief Justice administers the oath to all other members of the Judicial Branch.

Section 15. Vacancies In case of resignation or impeachment of any elected or appointed Judicial Branch member, there shall be a interview process and nomination by Election Commission; then after being sent to the Senate for an approval of two-thirds (2/3) vote of the Senate.

In the event the SGA Chief Justice resigns or is incapacitated, the Associate Chief Justice will assume the role of the SGA Chief Justice.

Section 1.

Class Authority

ARTICLE VI CLASS COUNCILS The Class Branch shall be the elected or appointed members of the Class Branch. All powers of the Class Branch shall be vested in the Class Council members.

Section 2. Organization Each Class Council shall have officers consisting of the Class President, Class Vice President, Class Business Manager, Class Secretary, Class Historian, Student Justice, and two (2) Class Senators, Class King, and Class Queen.

Section 3. Elections and Appointments of the Class Branch A. All individuals vying for any position amongst their respective Class Councils are required to be a member of their classes at the end of the election process or at the time of appointment during the academic year. To determine the amount of hours required for each Class Council, refer to the following: 1. To be an officer on the Freshmen Class Council, they are required to have at least 0 credit hours and a maximum of 29.99 earned credit hours confirmed by the Registrar.

2. To be an officer on the Sophomore Class Council, they are required to have at least 30 earned credit hours and a maximum of 59.99 earned credit hours confirmed by the Registrar.

3. To be an officer on the Junior Class Council, they are required to have at least 60 earned credit hours and a maximum of 89.99 earned credit hours confirmed by the Registrar.

4. To be an officer on the Senior Class Council, they are required to have at least 90 earned credit hours and a maximum of 126 earned credit hours confirmed by the Registrar.

B. All members shall not be on any type of disciplinary, scholastic or attendance probation at time of election or during his/her term of office.

C. All members of the Class Council are to have participated in mandatory events as scheduled by the election commission during the election process to qualify those individuals to be on the ballot.

D. The Class King and Queen shall have participated in a pageant/showcase. Section 4. Duties and Powers of the Class President The Class President shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Shall govern the class and plan functions to promote the class as a whole.

B.

Serve as the official spokesperson for the Class.

C. Call and preside over all Class Branch Meetings and General Class Body Meetings.

D. Present a record of Class activities at least twice a semester to the members of the Class at the General Class Body Meetings.

E. Recommend in a written document with reasonable cause the removal of elected or appointed class officers.

F. Call special meetings of the Class Branch and the General Class Body.

G. Serve as an ex officio member of the Executive Branch.

H. The senior class president shall serve on the commencement committee.

I. The sophomore class president shall speak at the Freshman Convocation.

J. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 5. Duties and Powers of the Class Vice President The Class Vice President shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Execute the powers of the class president in his/her temporary absence.

B.

Serve as an ex-officio member of all class committees, both standing and ad hoc.

C. Perform the necessary and proper duties designated him/her by the Class President.

D. Preside over all Class Branch Meetings and General Class Body meetings in the absence of the class president.

E. Serve as an ex-officio member of the Executive Branch in the class president’s absence.

F. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 6. Duties and Powers of the Class Business Manager The Class Business Manager shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Keep an accurate record of all disbursements of funds.

B. Turn in all collected funds to the Executive Business Manager within three (3) business days of receiving funds.

C. Serve as a temporary depositor of the Class Branch’s funds.

D. Make available a detailed financial report to the class council and the general class body.

E. Carry out assignments prescribed to him/her by the Class President as it relates to class business.

F. Sign all requisitions for class funds and make a copy available to the Executive Business Manager and Office of Student Center for Leadership and Involvement.

G. Create an inventory of all class property and submit a report, in writing, on the condition and state of the same to the Senate on or before their

first regularly scheduled Senate meeting.

H. Serve as Chairperson of the Class Budget & Finance Committee.

I. J. The A. B.

Serve as a member of the SGA Finance Committee.

Adhere to the Attendance Policy Section 7.

Duties and Powers of the Class Secretary Class Secretary shall have these specific powers and duties: Prepare an agenda for each official/scheduled meeting with the help of the Class President.

Take the minutes of each meeting of his/her respective class council.

C. Must have minutes completed and distributed to the rest of the officials within 48 hours after each official/scheduled meeting.

D. Make sure all members of his/her respective class council are adhering to the Attendance Policy.

E. Perform and assist in any task delegated to him/her by the class President.

F.

Make available to the Executive Secretary copies of minutes within 48 hours of meeting.

G. H. I. The

To keep a current and accurate file of all minutes from every class council and General Class Body Meetings.

Keep an accurate attendance record for Class Council meetings, General Class Body Meetings, and each Class-sponsored event.

Adhere to the Attendance Policy. Section 8.

Duties and Powers of the Class Historian Class Historian shall have these specific duties and powers:

A. B. C. D. E. F. G. H. I. The A. B. C.

Manage all class social media accounts.

Capture all pictures and/or videos at class events.

Write a detailed description of each class event and distribute it via student and alumni emails and the university newsletter.

Record the accomplishments of his/her class branch as well as the special accomplishments of individuals in his/her respective class.

Keep a scrapbook with detailed accounts of all class events held throughout the year.

Compile a list of available opportunities for his/her class such as internships, research opportunities, and so forth.

Carry out all out all official correspondences to the class.

Perform and assist in any task delegated to him/her by the class president.

Adhere to the Attendance Policy. Section 9.

Duties and Powers of the Student Justice Student Justices shall have these specific duties and powers: Keep order in all Class Branch and General Class Body Meetings based on Robert’s Rules of Order.

Perform and assist in tasks delegated to him/her by the Class President and the Chief Justice.

Serve as a member of the SGA Constitution Revisions Committee.

D. Keep and make available a current record of the SGA Constitution.

E.

Teach Robert’s Rules of Order to fellow class council members.

F.

Bring a copy of the SGA constitution and Robert’s Rules of Order to every meeting.

G. Ensure that all class actions and activities align with the SGA constitution.

H. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 10. Duties and Powers of the Class Senators The Class Senators shall have these specific duties and powers: A. Serve as ex officio members of the Legislative Branch.

B. Report directly to the class on the activities of the Senate from committee reports of the senate to bills and resolutions passed and vetoed.

C. Carry out assignments prescribed to him/her by the Class President as it relates to class business.

D. Serve as the liaison between the class council and the members of the class.

E. Give an accurate report and collect of all issues and concerns related to their respective class at Class Council Meetings and General Class Body Meetings.

F. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 11. Duties and Powers of the Class King and Queen The duties and powers of the Class King and Queen are indicated in Article VII. Section 12.

Class Branch Meetings A Class Council Meeting is described as a meeting with the official members of the Class Council to discuss issues and items to present to the Class.

This meeting must occur at least twice a month.

A General Class Body Meeting is described as a meeting with the official members of the Class Council and the members of the Class to obtain information about the Class and its activities. This meeting must occur once a month.

A Special Meeting is a meeting when the class president may call a meeting with the members of the Class or the Class council to discuss or vote on special issue concerning the Class. This meeting occurs at the discretion of the Class President.

Section 13. Impeachments Any Class officer may be recommended for impeachment on the grounds of misfeasance, malfeasance, and/or nonfeasance of duties, violation of this Constitution and By-laws, University Statues, and/or Demerit System. Impeachment may be instigated by 1) three- fourth (3/4) vote of Class officers, excluding the officers being recommended for impeachment, 2) one-third (1/3) vote of the Class voting members on petition, or 3) letter from class President.

Section 14. The Oath of the Class Branch Each class officer shall repeat the following oath prior to assuming office: “I, (name), do solemnly affirm to defend, uphold, and abide by the Constitution and Statutes of the Student Government Association and the policies of Jackson State University and faithfully execute the responsibilities of the Class Branch to the best of my ability.”

The SGA Chief Justice shall administer this oath. Section 15.

Vacancies and Procedures for Filling Vacancies Vacancies for class officers of the Class Council shall occur if during any semester of the elected or appointed officer’s where he/she is not enrolled full-time at Jackson State University, should resign, or become ineligible for office because of dropping of his/her cumulative GPA or impeachment.

A. If the office of Class President becomes vacant, the Class Vice President shall assume the office of Class President.

B. If any class officers of the class branch shall become vacant, the Election Commission shall interview and appoint such officer as deemed necessary.

Section 1.

Royal Court Authority

ARTICLE VII ROYAL COURT All royal powers granted herein shall be vested in Miss Jackson State University and Mister Jackson State University and assisted by Mister Senior, Miss Senior, Mister Junior, Miss Junior, Mister Sophomore, Miss Sophomore, Mister Freshman, and Miss Freshman.

Section 2. Organization The Royal Court of the SGA shall consist of Miss Jackson State University, Mister Jackson State University, Mister Senior, Miss Senior, Mister Junior, Miss Junior, Mister Sophomore, Miss Sophomore, Mister Freshman, and Miss Freshman.

Misters and Misses for Classes are sometimes referred to as Class Kings and Class Queens.

Section 3. Qualifications for Royal Court Members Below are the qualifications for members of the Royal Court.

Miss Jackson State University: A. Must have earned minimum of 90 quality hours and a maximum of 126 hours at the beginning of the fall semester of her reign.

B. Must have been enrolled at Jackson State University at least one academic year prior to her candidacy.

C. Never have been convicted before any disciplinary committee at any time before or during her candidacy and/or reign.

D. Must have been approved by the Center of Student Leadership and Involvement and the Office of Associate President for Student Life verifying items A-C above.

E. No student may serve as Miss Jackson State University for more than one elected term.

F. Must be enrolled as a full-time student at Jackson State University at the time of her candidacy and during reign.

Mister Jackson State University: A. Must have earned minimum of 90 quality hours and a maximum of 126 hours at the beginning of the fall semester of his reign.

B. Must have been enrolled at Jackson State University at least one academic year prior to his candidacy.

C. Never have been convicted before any disciplinary committee at any time before or during his candidacy and/or reign.

D. Must have been approved by the Center of Student Leadership and Involvement and the Office of Associate President for Student Life verifying items A-C above.

E. No student may serve as Mister Jackson State University for more than one elected term.

F. Must be enrolled as a full-time student at Jackson State University at the time of his candidacy and during reign.

Class Kings: A. Must have been enrolled at Jackson State University at least one academic year prior to his candidacy except those candidates running for Mister Freshman.

B. Never have been convicted before any disciplinary committee at any time before or during his candidacy and/or reign.

C. Must have been approved by the Center of Student Leadership and Involvement and the Office of Associate President for Student Life verifying items A-B above.

D. Must be enrolled as a full-time student at Jackson State University at the time of his candidacy and during reign. (Credit hours vary according to his perspective Class Council.)

Class Queen: A. Must have been enrolled at Jackson State University at least one academic year prior to her candidacy except those candidates running for Miss Freshman.

B. Never have been convicted before any disciplinary committee at any time before or during her candidacy and/or reign.

C. Must have been approved by the Center of Student Leadership and Involvement and the Office of Associate President for Student Life verifying items A-B above.

D. Must be enrolled as full time student at Jackson State University at the time of his candidacy and during reign. (Credit hours vary according to her perspective Class Council.)

Section 4. Elections of King and Queen Positions Miss Jackson State University: A. The Student Body shall nominate candidates for Miss Jackson State University during the General Elections held in the spring.

B. Each candidate for Miss Jackson State University must participate in a pageant scheduled by the Election Commission and directed by the Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion. The pageant shall be judged by a panel of five (5) external judges recommended by the Election Commission

and the Office of Associate Provost for Student Life. Total point value which may be awarded for the pageant, shall be three hundred (100) points. The pageant shall be judged on: 1. Private Interview 2. Oratorical Speech 3. Talent 4. Poise and Projection 5. On-Stage Question and Answer C. This pageant shall be method of selection of candidates with the three (3) highest scores, and those three (3) will appear on the ballot in the Spring General Elections. In the event of a tie among the highest scoring candidates both shall appear on the ballot.

D. The candidate with the highest number of votes shall be crowned Miss Jackson State University. In the event of a tie on the ballot for first place, the candidate receiving the highest number of points in the pageant shall be declared Miss Jackson State University.

E. There shall be no alternatives to Miss Jackson State University unless the Miss Jackson State University relinquishes her crown within the first semester of her reign. The individual receiving the second highest number of votes in the elections and still maintaining eligibility requirements for Miss Jackson State University shall be appointed the new Miss Jackson State University.

Mister Jackson State University: A. The Student body shall nominate candidates for Mister Jackson State University during the General Elections held in the spring.

B. Each candidate for Mister Jackson State University must participate in a pageant scheduled by the Election Commission and directed by the Center for Student Engagement and Inclusion. The pageant shall be judged by a panel of five (5) external judges recommended by the Election Commission and the Office of Associate Provost for Student Life. Total point value which may be awarded for the pageant, shall be three hundred (100) points. The pageant shall be judged on: 1. Private Interview 2. Oratorical Speech 3. Talent 4. On stage Personality/Chivalry 5. On-Stage Question and Answer C. This pageant shall be method of selection of candidates with the three (3) highest scores, and those three (3) will appear on the ballot in the Spring General Elections. In the event of a tie among the highest scoring candidates both shall appear on the ballot.

D. The candidate with the highest number of votes shall be crowned Mister Jackson State University. In the event of a tie on the ballot for first place, the candidate receiving the highest number of points in the pageant shall be declared Mister Jackson State University.

E. There shall be no alternatives to Mister Jackson State University unless the Mister Jackson State University relinquishes his crown within the first semester of his reign. The individual receiving the second highest number of votes in the elections and still maintaining eligibility requirements for Mister Jackson State University shall be appointed the new Mister Jackson State University.

Class Kings and Queens: A. All members of the Class Council are to have participated in mandatory events as scheduled by the Election Commission during spring elections to qualify those persons for their respective positions.

B. Class Kings and Queens are required to follow the same election process as other official of his/her designated Class Council.

Section 5. Duties and Powers of Miss Jackson State University Miss Jackson State University shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Represent integrity in scholarship, leadership and character.

B. Exemplify the highest traits of character and good conduct.

C. Be involved in campus activities.

D. Work with the SGA, Mister Jackson State University and her advisors.

E. Preside over all business as it pertains to the Royal Court collectively with Mister Jackson State University.

F. Commit to official representation of the position she holds. She shall represent the university at official and ceremonial occasions including but not limited to: 1. Football Games 2. Parades 3. High School Days (including JPS Day and Delta Day) 4. Special Functions on Campus 5. Approved off-campus activities 6. Campus wide assemblies G. Reside in her on-campus living quarters during the fall and spring semesters of her reign.

H. Represent the university in pageants, programs, and community service projects that aid in the overall reputation of Jackson State University.

I. She shall be responsible for coordinating and carrying out at least two programs/projects per semester, in an effort to carry out her major platform, which will benefit the Jackson State University Student Body and/or community at large.

J. Provide community service projects that tabulate to be a minimum of 40 community service hours. This shall be based off the interpretation of staff in the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning.

K. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 6. Duties and Powers of Mister Jackson State University Mister Jackson State University shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Represent integrity in scholarship, leadership and character.

B. Exemplify the highest traits of character and good conduct.

C. Be involved in campus activities.

D. Work with the SGA, Miss Jackson State University and his advisors.

E. Preside over all business as it pertains to the Royal Court collectively with Miss Jackson State University.

F. Serve as an official escort to Miss Jackson State University.

G. Commit to official representation of the position he holds. He shall represent the university at official and ceremonial occasions including but not limited to: 1. Football Games 2. Parades 3. High School Day (including JPS Day and Delta Day) 4. Special Functions on Campus 5. Approved off-campus activities 6. Campus wide assemblies H. Reside in his on-campus living quarters during the fall and spring semesters of his reign.

I. Represent the university in pageants, programs, and community service projects that aid in the overall reputation of Jackson State University.

J. He shall be responsible for coordinating and carrying out at least two programs/projects per semester, in an effort to carry out his major platform, which will benefit the Jackson State University Student Body and/or community at large K. Provide community service projects that tabulate to be a minimum of 40 community service hours. This shall be based off the interpretation of staff in the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning.

L. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 7. Duties and Powers of the Class Kings and Queens Class Kings and Queens shall have these specific duties and powers to: A. Serve as official ambassadors for the Class at all official and calendar events of the University when requested.

B. Serve as an attendants and esquires to Mister and Miss Jackson State University.

C. Serve as co-chairpersons of the Class Community Service Committee for their respective classes.

D. Stay informed on Class business and act as a visible face for their respective class.

E. Provide community service projects that tabulate to be a minimum or 25 community service hours. This shall be based off the interpretation of staff in the Alice Varnado Harden Center for Service and Community Engaged Learning.

F. Adhere to the Attendance Policy.

Section 8.

Royal Court Budget

The Royal Court’s budget shall come from the SGA Budget. The Royal Court is required to receive a minimum of 12% of the SGA’s budget. Mister Jackson State University and Miss Jackson State University along with their advisors will decide on how this budget will be allocated amongst all members of the Court. Class Kings and Queens may not acquire funds from their designated class councils.

Section 9. Royal Court Meetings A Royal Court Meeting is a meeting with the members of the Royal Court discussing their plans, issues, and concerns regarding the academic year.

This meeting must occur at least twice a month and be scheduled before the elected officials’ academic term.

The Royal Court must be present at Royal Court, SGA (members only), and General Student Body Meetings with the exception of those meetings that may interfere with the duties and obligations of the Royal Court.

Mister Jackson State University and Miss Jackson State University must attend all Executive Branch meetings. However, if any meetings interfere with the duties or obligations required of the Royal Court, he/she may be excused from attending the meeting. Official excuses must come from the advisor for the Royal Court.

Class Kings and Queens must attend all Class Council and General Class Body meetings. However, if any meetings interfere with the duties or obligations required of the Royal Court, he/she may be excused from attending the meeting. Official excuses must come from the advisor for the Royal Court.

Section 10. Coronation Coronation is the official ceremony, officially crowning Mister Jackson State University, Miss Jackson State University, and their Royal Court. The budget allotted to Coronation Committee shall cover all expenses for each member of the Royal Court. The Royal Court is still required to carry out their duties and acquire their budget prior to being sworn in.

Section 11. The Oath of the Royal Court Each royal court shall repeat the following oath prior to assuming office: “I, (name), do solemnly affirm to defend, uphold, and abide by the Constitution and Statutes of the Student Government Association and the policies of Jackson State University and faithfully execute the responsibilities of the Royal Court to the best of my ability.”

This oath shall be administered by the SGA Chief Justice.

Section 12. Vacancies and Filling Vacancies Vacancies for members of the Royal Court shall occur if during any semester of the elected officer’s where he/she is not enrolled full-time at Jackson State University, should resign, or become ineligible for office because of dropping of his/her cumulative GPA or impeachment. There shall be no alternates to Mister or Miss Jackson State University unless Mister or Miss Jackson State University, for any reason, cannot fulfill their duties and has to relinquish their crown within the first semester of his reign. The individual receiving the second highest number of votes in the elections and still maintaining eligibility requirements for Mister or Miss Jackson State University shall be appointed the new Mister and Miss Jackson State University.

Section 1.

Organization

ARTICLE VIII SGA COMMITTEES

Members of SGA committees must be appointed by the committee’s designated chairperson.

Section 2. Standing Committees Standing committees are committees that meet regularly at the discretion of the elected officials that appoint them.

A. SGA Budget and Finance Committee- The purpose of this committee is to aid the Executive Business Manager in his/her budget planning and reports. Each Class Business Manager is required to sit on this committee. The Executive Business Manager may recruit any person he/she believes will be of assistance to the Budget and Finance Committee, whether that person be a member of the SGA or a member of the student body.

B. SGA Constitution Revisions Committee- The purpose of this committee is to aid the Chief Justice in his/her duties in amending the SGA Constitution. Each Student Justice and Associate Chief Justice is required to sit on this committee. The Chief Justice may recruit any person he/she believes will be of assistance to the Constitutions Revisions Committee, whether that person be an official of the SGA or a member of the student body.

C. Program Committee – The purpose of this committee is to plan and organize programs sponsored by the Class Council.

D. Fundraiser Committee – The purpose of this committee is to plan strategic activities to increase the SGA and Class funds.

Section 3. Ad-Hoc Committees Ad-hoc committees may be created as deemed necessary to carry out a particular function of the SGA or Class chairman for a limited time.

ARTICLE IX RATIFICATION OF THE SGA CONSTITUTION This constitution shall be adopted upon the signature of the SGA President, SGA Vice President, Chief Justice, and approved by the Associate Provost of Student Affairs and Legal Counsel, as in compliance with University Rules & Regulations. This document shall be ratified in time for the next SGA officials assuming office to carry out the by- laws and statutes of this document.

ARTICLE X METHOD OF AMENDMENT FOR THE SGA CONSTITUTION Section 1. All proposed amendments to this constitution shall be adopted by three-fourths (3/4) majority vote of the Senate currently in office on each particular amendment.

Section 2. Proposed amendments must be published in the Official University Newspaper in a minimum of two (2) issues prior to the date on which the Senate will vote on the amendments.

Section 3. All proposed amendments to this constitution are subject to Veto by the SGA President.

Section 4. All proposed amendments to this Constitution should go into effect immediately upon final approval unless a date is specified by the SGA Constitution Revisions Committee.

JACKSON STATE UNIVERSITY STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION CODE OF LAWS Chapter 1. Systems of Codifying Student Government Association Statutes 1.1 There shall be nine (8) titles that deal with related and similar topics, and each composed of a number of numerically designed chapters, as follows: Title I. Definitions, Interpretations, Construction of, and Compliance with the Statutes Title II. The President’s Cabinet Title III. Legislative Branch Title IV. Judicial Branch Title V. Attendance Policy Title VI. Demerit System Titles VII. Finance Code Title VIII. General Legislation 1.2 Each chapter may be subdivided by means of decimal arrangement.

1.3 The procedure outlined in Chapter 1 shall be observed by the Legislative secretary in placing enacted legislation in the statutes and in exercising statutory revisions.

Chapter 2 Definitions and Interpretations The SGA Chief Justice shall hand down definitions and interpretations of the Constitution and Statutes in opinion form. Jurisdiction over such questions lies with the Judicial Branch in compliance with the SGA Constitution.

Chapter 3 Compliance All SGA officers must comply with the SGA Statutes. Willful and deliberate disregard of these statues or any section thereof shall be grounds for impeachment in compliance with the SGA Constitution.

Chapter 4 Penalties for Non-Compliance All students who serve in any capacity with the SGA must comply with the SGA Constitution and/or any section therein. Non-compliance shall subject the student to removal from office by the proper procedure.

CHAPTER 100 THE PRESIDENT’S CABINET 100.1 The President’s Cabinet shall consist of the following officer and directors who shall be appointed by the President of the SGA: A. Chief of Staff to the SGA President B. Director of Public Relations C. Graphic Designers (2) D. SGA Photographer E. Director of Community Service F. Director of Commuter Student Involvement G. Director of International/Multicultural Student Involvement H. Website Coordinator I. Speech Analyst 100.2 The SGA President shall serve as chair of the cabinet.

100.3 The Cabinet or any portion thereof shall meet at the SGA President’s discretion to discuss matters relative to student government.

100.4 The term of office for all appointed members of the Executive Branch shall be limited to the term of office of the President who appointed them.

100.5 All directors shall give a semester and end of year report. The State of the Union Address shall be drawn in part from these reports.

CHAPTER 101 THE CHIEF OF STAFF TO THE PRESIDENT 101.1 The Chief to Staff shall be responsible for the coordination of direct student participation in University/Academic Affairs and the representation of members of the SGA in their dealings with the faculty and university administration in such matters as herein further designated by the SGA President.

101.2 The Chief of Staff shall have the following duties: A. The supervision of President’s Cabinet and any assignment given by the President. and B. The supervision of the role of the SGA in the recruitment of new students and in new student orientation.

101.3 The Chief of Staff shall be responsible for all correspondence as referred to him/her by the SGA President.

101.4 The Chief of Staff shall serve as general assistant and advisor to the SGA President.

CHAPTER 102 THE DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS 102.1 The Director of Public Relations shall work with the Director of University Relations in promoting the University and its best interests.

102.2 The Director of Public Relations shall handle all publicity for the SGA and its related activities.

102.3 The Director of Public Relations shall monthly distribute official press releases detailing SGA activities to all campus mediums and other selected mediums.

102.4 The Director of Public Relations shall make the community aware of the value of University students to social service organizations, merchants, and other community entities.

102.5 The Director of Public Relations shall maintain communication with the City of Jackson officials, service leaders, and the chamber of Commerce to limit problems and pursue opportunities for University students.

102.6 The Director of Public Relations shall appoint such committees as may be necessary to assist him/her in fulfilling his/her duties upon approval of the SGA President.

102.7 The Director of Public Relations shall implement and oversee activities to be sponsored by the SGA on High School Day. 102.8 The Director of Public Relations shall obtain sponsorships from local businesses for the SGA. 102.9 The Director of Public Relations shall perform other duties as delegated by the SGA President.

CHAPTER 103 THE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY SERVICE 103.1 The Director of Community Service will serve as the student liaison to various community outreach programs that relate to the urban mission of the University, i.e., United Blood Services, Mississippi Blood Services, Muscular Dystrophy, Adopt-A- School, and Vote Registration.

103.2 The Director of Community Service will implement coordinated and focused service projects to help meet the needs of the community.

103.3 The Director of Community Service will perform other duties as delegated by the SGA President.

CHAPTER 104 DIRECTOR OF COMMUTER STUDENT INVOLVEMENT 104.1 Work with the Center for Institutional Diversity in promoting commuter students and their interest.

104.2 Be responsible for informing the SGA President of all on and off campus events specifically aimed at commuter students.

104.3 Assist Commuter Student Association in all necessary capacity.

104.4 Implement methods of informing commuter students of university sponsored events.

104.5 Establish a committee to assist him/her with duties.

104.6 Responsible for implementing the strategic vision of the SGA President for commuter student involvement.

104.7 Perform any duties assigned by the SGA President.

CHAPTER 105 DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY RELATIONS 105.1 Work with the Center for Institutional Diversity, China Initiative, Global Academic Diversity, Division of International Studies and other departments on campus that work to promote International/Multicultural Student Involvement.

105.2 Be responsible for informing the SGA President of all on and off campus events specifically aimed at international/multicultural students.

105.3 Implement programs to assist international/multicultural students while they study at the University.

105.4 Establish a committee to assist him/her with duties.

105.5 Responsible for implementing the strategic vision of the SGA President for international/multicultural student involvement.

105.6 Perform any duties assigned by the SGA President.

CHAPTER 106 WEBSITE COORDINATOR 106.1 Design and maintain website for SGA. 106.2 Keep the website updated with current issues, SGA events, all other aspects as they relate to SGA. 106.3 Must stay in contact with IT personnel to ensure there are no technical difficulties with the website throughout the academic year.

106.4 Work hand in hand with the PR Director and Photographer for promotional and problematic matters.

CHAPTER 107 SPEECH ANALYST 107.1 Assist SGA President in speech-writing process.

107.2 Ensure the completion of every speech at the SGA President’s discretion.

CHAPTER 108 SENATE CONFIRMATION 108.1 The Senate shall, by a majority vote, approve or disapprove of Cabinet appointments as outlined in these statutes.

CHAPTER 109 SUCCESSION 109.1 If for any reason, an official of the SGA is unable to complete his/her term in office and an order of succession is not specified in the SGA Constitution, then the successor shall be appointed within ten (10) school days in the following manner: A. Any office of the Jackson State University SGA left vacant shall have a new official appointed by the Election Commission with two-thirds (2/3)

vote of student senate currently in office.

CHAPTER 110 STATUE OF AGENTS 110.1 No person or organization shall be recognized as an official agent of the SGA unless said relationship is expressly stated in the SGA Constitution or Statutes.

110.2 All agency relationships not in compliance with the Constitution shall be immediately disavowed, and said relationship shall be dissolved.

CHAPTER 111 NOTIFICATIONS OF JOB DUTIES 111.1 Upon election or appointment, all officers shall be given a copy of their duties as outlined in this Constitution and the Statutes.

CHAPTER 112 THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 112.1 The Executive Branch shall issue a report to the other branches on a monthly basis. This report can be a summary of minutes from the Executive Board Meetings and should be sent electronically to the secretaries of each of the branches within three (3) business days after all Executive Board Meetings.

CHAPTER 200 THE LEGISLATIVE BRANCH 200.1 The Senate shall meet in yearly sessions, to coincide with the term of the Senators. A session shall begin the first summer session after elections and shall conclude with the final meeting of the spring semester. Each session of the Senate shall adopt its own Rules of Procedures in accordance with the Constitution and Statutes.

200.2 The SGA Vice-President shall be empowered to call special meetings of the Senate. The SGA Vice President must call a meeting of the Senate within twenty-four (24) hours after a request is presented to him/her by one-half (1/2) of the Senate requesting a meeting of said body.

200.3 Voting A. A majority vote of the Senate shall be defined as fifty percent (50%) plus one (1) of the members of the Senate PRESENT and VOTING. An abstention will not count towards the total in determining the majority.

B. A two-thirds (2/3) vote student senate currently in office shall be no less than two- thirds of the members PRESENT and VOTING. An abstention will not be counted toward two-thirds majority.

C. A three-fourths (3/4) vote of Senate shall be no less than three-fourths (3/4) of the total Senators currently in office. An abstention will not be counted toward a three-fourths (3/4) vote of the total Senate.

D. The motion to require a roll call vote shall require the consent of one-third (1/3) of the members present. The Legislative Secretary shall include the roll call vote in the minutes.

E. The Vice President shall have the power to break all ties in majority votes, but shall not be counted toward a quorum or toward votes requiring a two-thirds vote; any other presiding officer, who shall be a member of the Senate, shall retain his/her power to be counted toward a quorum or a twothirds vote in all cases.

200.4 A quorum for the purpose of holding a meeting and transacting business shall consist of twelve (12) of those members of the Senate at the time of the meeting.

200.5 Roberts Rules of Order shall be the parliamentary authority for conduction of business of the Senate.

CHAPTER 201 SENATE CALENDAR AND NUMBERING OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS 201.1 All bills and resolutions shall be assigned consecutive numbers by the legislative secretary of the SGA immediately upon introduction into the Senate or upon placement on the calendar.

201.2 The legislative secretary is in charge of preparing the calendar.

201.3 Legislation will be placed on the senate calendar by depositing bills and resolutions in a collection box located in the SGA office by noon two (2) days prior to the Senate meeting at which the legislation is to be considered; whereby, the legislative secretary of the SGA shall make available bills and resolutions to each Senator by the next scheduled senate meeting.

201.4 Copies of the senate calendar containing entire copies of bills and resolutions will be prepared by the legislative secretary of the SGA to be distributed to each senate member at the senate meeting at which said bills are to be considered.

201.5 Legislation not on the calendar will be considered after all legislation on the calendar has been acted on.

201.6 All legislation must include the name of the authoring senators.

201.7 All legislation not considered shall be placed on the calendar for the next meeting in order left off, with precedence over new bills placed on the calendar.

CHAPTER 202 FILING OF BILLS AND RESOLUTION 202.1 The Legislative Secretary shall keep two (2) resolutions and acts in numerical order and one (1) of bills and amendments in numerical order. Each piece of legislation shall have attached to it: A. A statement signed by the Legislative Secretary attesting to the accuracy of the legislation as it appears in file and the numerical designation, senate sponsor (s), date of passage, and the vote.

B. A statement signed by the SGA President either of approval or veto or a statement, if required by the Legislative Secretary, to the effect that the SGA President failed to act within five (5) school days.

202.2 The Legislative Secretary shall, upon passage of a resolution in which forwarding to certain individuals is requested, delivers copies of the resolution to the respective parties.

CHAPTER 203 APPROVAL OF BILLS BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION 203.1 The Legislative Secretary shall transmit to the SGA Executive Secretary as expediently as possible, accurate copies of all bills and resolutions passed by the Senate.

203.2 The SGA President shall transmit as expediently as possible accurate copies of all bills passed by the Senate and approved by himself to the Associate Provost for Student Life.

203.3 If the SGA President vetoes any bill by the Senate he/she must inform the Legislative Secretary of this action within three (3) calendar days after he/she vetoes the bill. The Legislative Secretary shall be required to inform members of the Senate within three (3) calendar days after the President notified him/her of the veto.

203.4 The Senate may override the president’s veto by three-fourths (¾) vote of the senate currently in office.

CHAPTER 204 SENATE TERM 204.1 Installation of the SGA Senators shall take place at the Installation of SGA. 204.2 The term of the senate shall coincide with the academic school year beginning in the first summer session after their election with the exception of Freshman Class Senators whose term shall begin immediately upon election and swearing in.

CHAPTER 205 ABSENCES 205.1 Any senators having more than two (2) unexcused absences during his/her term of office will be removed from the senate roll immediately after the regularly scheduled senate meeting following his/her third unexcused absence.

205.2 Any Senator absent from his/her called committee meeting will be counted one-half (1/2) absent unless previous arrangements have been made with the committee chair.

205.3 It is the responsibility of the committee chair to turn in these absences to the Legislative Secretary.

205.4 Any senator arriving at the senate meeting fifteen (15) minutes after the meeting has officially begun will be counted absent.

CHAPTER 206 VACANCIES IN THE SENATE 206.1 If a Senator selected from a constituent council moves from the constituent council originally selected, he/she shall immediately forfeit his/her office and seat in the Senate.

206.2 Filling vacancies in the senate.

A. Any senatorial vacancy, except those mentioned in 206.1, that occurs during the fall or spring semesters of the academic year shall be filled by the losing candidate on the spring senatorial ballot of the vacated council who ranked highest in numbers of votes and who still meets all the qualifications for the Senate as provided under statute.

CHAPTER 207 APPROVALS OF APPOINTMENTS OF STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION 207.1 Appointments by the SGA President shall be presented to the senate by the SGA President on or before the third regular senate meeting after the vacancy or vacancies have occurred. Each appointment shall then be referred to the Senate Committee on appointments, which shall examine the qualifications of the appointee and shall recommend the senate the appropriate action concerning the appointment.

207.2 Questioning of the appointee(s), if desired by the senate, shall take place at the regularly scheduled senate meeting following the committee’s recommendation. Further questioning may later take place if the senate deems it necessary.

207.3 Approval or disapproval of all Cabinet, Judicial Branch, and Executive Brach appointments made by the SGA President shall be voted as expediently as possible; not requiring more than two (2) senate meetings.

207.4 Decisions on appointments, Presidential or otherwise, shall be by roll call vote or by secret ballot at the request of any senator, provided there are no objections within the senate. If any senator objects, a vote will be taken on whether or not to decide by secret ballot, with two-thirds (2/3) vote required for passage.

CHAPTER 208 RECALL OF SENATORS 208.1 Any council is given the power, by means of a petition signed by thirty-five percent (35%) of the members of the council, to require that its senator stand for a recall election.

208.2 This recall shall be presented to the SGA President who shall refer such petition after the constitutionality and validity of such petition has been affirmed to the Election Commissioner.

208.3 A majority of those qualified members of the council voting in a recall elections shall constitute the recall of that senator concerned and his/her immediate removal from office.

208.4 In the event a senator is removed from office through recall procedures the Election Commissioner shall hold a new election to fill the vacant senate seat within two (2) weeks of the date of the recall election.

CHAPTER 209 APPROVALS OR VETO OF RESOLUTIONS BY THE SGA PRESDIENT 209.1 The Legislative Secretary shall transmit to the SGA President accurate copies of the minutes and all resolutions passed by the Senate.

209.2 The SGA President shall transmit accurate copies of all resolutions passed by the Senate and approved by them to the Office of the Associate Provost of Student Life.

209.3 The SGA President shall have the power to veto any resolution passed by the Senate.

CHAPTER 210 SENATE STANDING COMMITTEES 210.1 Rules Committee A. The Rules Committee shall be composed of four (4) voting members: The President of the Senate and four (4) other senators elected by the membership of the Senate. The presence of three (3) voting members shall constitute a quorum.

B. The Budget and Finance Committee shall have the following duties: 1. Work with Executive Business Manager to maintain surveillance of the SGA budget and to the business manager in his/her duties.

2. To examine requests for funds from the SGA budget and to make a written report, including recommendations to the Senate.

210.2 Student Organizations Committee A. The Student Organizations Committee is composed of six (6) members of the Senate and an ex-officio representative from the Office of the Associate Provost for Student Life and the Office of Student Activities. The chairperson shall be appointed from the members of the committee.

B. The Committee shall act in an advisory capacity but will have the right to recommend organization(s) or council(s) for probation if it feels that the organization is not consistent with the aims set forth in its constitution and with the aims and purposed of Jackson State University.

C. The Senate, after considerations and recommendations from the organization committee, may recommend to the Office of the Associate Provost of Student Life that the organization’s charter be revoked or place the organization or council on suspension.

D. An organization may appeal the action of the Senate to the judiciary council. The President or Chairman of the organization or council must make such appeal through the Office of the Associate Provost of Student Life within thirty (30) calendar days of the Senate’s decision.

Chapter 211 DUTIES OF SENATORS Along with their duties to the Senate each senator shall have duties as follows A. Prepare and give reports at each Senate meeting.

B. Meet with their respective council.

211.1 The Academic Council Senator shall: A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA and the members of all the Academic Councils.

B. Coordinate the SGA’s role in the student evaluation of faculty members.

C. Investigate and report to the SGA President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning academics.

D. Assist students in utilizing the available campus academic resource centers.

211.2 The Pan Hellenic Senators shall:

A. Serve as liaisons between the SGA and Pan Hellenic Council.

B. Coordinate all joint events between the Pan Hellenic Council and SGA. 211.3 The Religious Senator shall: A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA and the members of the Religious Council.

B. Work to ensure that all students are provided avenues in which they can freely pursue their religious beliefs and fellowship with others of similar beliefs.

211.4 The Residential Housing Association Senator shall: A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA, Residence Council and the Housing Department; as well as all students living on/off campus housing.

B. Investigate and report to the President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning residences.

211.5 The Special Interest Senator shall: A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA and the members of the Special Interest Council.

B. Provide avenues in which the members of the council can network.

C. Provide for the development of new Special Interest organizations.

211.6 Freshman/Sophomore/Junior/Senior Senators shall: A. Serve as a liaison between the SGA and the members of the Class Council.

B. Investigate and report to the President, student concerns regarding all University issues concerning class council.

CHAPTER 300 PUBLIC HEARINGS OF THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT 300.1 All non-disciplinary cases as defined in Article V of the SGA Constitution shall be open to the public at the discretion of the Chair.

300.2 All disciplinary cases as defined in Article V of the SGA Constitution shall be closed to the public.

300.3 Deliberation in all cases will be closed.

300.4 Upon the occasion that members of the general public observing these hearings become disruptive or unruly, those individuals who are being disruptive or unruly may be ejected from the chambers upon the request of the Chair of the Judicial Council.

CHAPTER 301 VOTING DECISION The voting decision of each member of the Judicial Council in non-disciplinary cases shall report in the written ruling of each case as public record.

CHAPTER 302 APPROVING NOMINATIONS In making or approving nominations to the Judicial Branch, the SGA President and the Senate should consider primarily qualifications and secondarily representation in the council, ensuring that it competently and fairly represents all students at Jackson State University.

CHAPTER 303 VACANCIES IN THE JUDICIAL BRANCH In case of any vacancies on the council, the SGA President shall appoint a new member in accordance with constitutional composition.

CHAPTER 400 ATTENDANCE POLICY Below is the attendance policy for all SGA officials to hold them accountable to their duties: A. All SGA officials are required to attend all scheduled and special SGA meetings, General Student Body meetings, and participate in all SGA functions and activities that are mandated by the SGA President, as well as all meetings scheduled for their particular branch.

B. In regard to absences: 1. Each officer is allowed two unexcused absences a semester.

2. For each office hour missed, officers shall be assessed a half (1/2) absence. Each officer is required to complete five (5) office hours every week.

3. In the case of an absence the officer should notify the SGA President and Executive Secretary at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting or activity.

Absences may be excused if a letter is submitted to the SGA President and Executive Secretary within in 24 hours of the meeting and deemed excusable by two-thirds (2/3) vote of the class council (elected officers), excluding the Officer in question C. Each member of the Student Government Association must be notified one month ahead of each mandatory event.

CHAPTER 500 DEMERIT SYSTEM A demerit is a consequence received for malfeasance of duties by any SGA official. Every member is liable to receive a demerit and once three demerits are received the SGA official in question will have the necessary documents and a letter sent to the Executive Vice President requesting impeachment. A record of demerits will be kept by the SGA President and the Executive Secretary. Upon signature of SGA contracts, SGA officials will be aware of how demerits are received without question. If there is a question of clarification at the time a demerit is received, the branch minus the member in question will vote on the status of that member’s demerit, whether it be a half or a whole demerit. Demerits will be received as follows: Half Demerits Include: 1.

2.

3.

Tardiness to any meeting, event, or presidential request* of more than ten minutes without an excuse.

Leaving any meeting, event, or presidential request* early without an excuse.

Disrespectful conduct with any SGA official.

Full Demerits Include: 4.

5.

6.

Unexcused absence from any meeting, event, or presidential request* Inability to meet a deadline of presidential request* Obstruction of any constitutional duties and by-laws.

*Presidential requests include any requests made by the Student Government Association President and the class presidents. *An excuse is considered an email sent within 24 hours of event, meeting, or request if time allows. If a last-minute request is given, please respond as soon as possible to inform the requestor of your availability. Excuses must also be legitimate. Anything that would constitute as an official university excuse as well as class, (the president has a copy of all of your class schedules) will also serve as an excuse for SGA matters. *Lack of participation will be determined by effort put into assigned tasks especially in roles given in assigned events.

CHAPTER 600 PRESENTATION OF THE STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION BUDGET 600.1 The SGA President and Executive Business Manager shall present the proposed budget for the year to the Senate for approval or disapproval.

600.2 The Executive Business Manager shall present a general appropriations bill to the Senate at the time of the presentation of the budget to authorize proposed expenditures set forth in the budget.

600.3 The SGA shall not provide funds for operational costs, transportation costs, or lodging for any external group or organization unless officially representing the University by order of the Associate Provost for Student Life CHAPTER 700

TRAVELING ENTOURAGE

700.1 The official traveling representatives of the SGA will be comprised of the SGA officials: A. SGA President B. Mister Jackson State University C. Miss Jackson State University CHAPTER 800 THE OUTREACH PROGRAM 800.1 All SGA officers and appointees shall serve at least five (5) scheduled office hours per week. These hours can be obtained by meeting with students of their constituencies, working on reports and various other activities relating to their constituencies. At least three (3) of these hours must be obtained in the SGA suite. Any unexcused absence from these hours shall count as one-half (1/2) of an absence.

800.2 When positions are available, the following individuals may travel at half price to all official scheduled activities: A. Executive Council Members B. Judicial Council Members C. Legislative Council Members D. Class Council Members CHAPTER 900 Election Rules and Regulation 900.1 Please refer to the document entitled Student Election Regulation created February 9, 2017. All amendments to this constitution will be placed in effect for 2017 election.

CHAPTER 1000 SGA MEMBER STIPENDS 1000.2 The SGA member stipends will immediately go into effect during the 2016-2017 academic school year.

1000.2 The SGA President shall allocate funds from the SGA Budget and distribute stipends to all SGA members throughout the academic year. This will hold each member more accountable to fulfill his or her duties in the SGA. According to the table, Executive Branch Member stipend disbursement will only go to the Executive Business Manager, Executive Secretary, and Executive Assistant Secretary, Chief Justice, and Class Presidents. Judicial Branch Member stipend disbursement will only go to Associate Chief Justice and all Student Justices. Legislative Branch Member stipend disbursement will only go to the Academic Council Senators, Special Interest Council Senators, and Class Council Senators. Class Branch Member stipend disbursements will only go Class Vice President, Class Business Manager, Class Secretary, Class Historian, Student Justices, and Class King and Queen.

Elected Officer Position Amount Per Month Amount Per Semester Amount Per Year SGA President $125 $500 $1,000 Mister Jackson State University $125 $500 $1,000 Miss Jackson State University $125 $500 $1,000 SGA Vice President $100 $400 $800 Executive Branch Members $50 $200 $400 Judicial Branch Members $25 $100 $200 Legislative Branch Members $25 $100 $200 Class Branch Members $25 $100 $200

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