CAVALLARO • JOHNSON
FALL 2014 • SPRING 2015
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Credits Editor Tony Nguyen Photographers Lauren Alsina Julia Crabtree Nicholas Kielbasa Chelsea Newson Jose Pacheco Jasmine Smith Sarah Williams Student Government Association Bill Lax Writers Eric Trombetti Kelley Cunningham Project Supervisor Marvin Harris SGA Today Annual is an annual publication of Student Publications, an Affiliated Project of the Student Government Association of Florida State University. Information compiled in this publication has been reported to Student Publications by their respective student leaders. SGA Today Annual Vol. 3 For more information, please contact SGA Today Editor Tony Nguyen at tmnguyen@fsu.edu. SGA Today, A302 Oglesby Union, (850) 645-0160 This publication is available upon request in alternative format for individuals with printrelated disabilities.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Executive Branch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Golden Tribe Lecture Series. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Headliners. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 MLK Week. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Legislative Branch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Street Team. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Congress of Graduate Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Judicial Branch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Office of Elections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 All Agency Advance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Asian American Student Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Black Student Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Hispanic/Latino Student Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 Pride Student Union . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90 Women Student Union. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98 Office of Governmental Affairs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102 Freshman Leadership Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108 Transfer Leadership Institute . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112 Class Councils. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116 Office of Entrepreneurship & Innovation . . . . . . . . 126 Student Sustainability Initiative . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126 Office of Servant Leadership. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127 Inter-Residence Hall Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130 Medical Response . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131 Center for Participant Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134 Student Council on Undergraduate Research & Creativity. . 136 College Leadership Councils . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137 Student Publications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138 WVFS Radio Station. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140 The BIG Event. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142 SGA Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146 Seminole Allies & Safe Zones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
The mission of the Student Government Association is to provide FSU students with representation, services, and advocacy within the university structure. The SGA provides quality leadership for, and accountability to, its constituency by recognizing that strength arises from diversity, engagement, and dialogue. 4 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SGA TODAY
Dear Fellow Seminoles, Explore how you can serve your fellow students through your Student Government Association. SGA offers many ways for you to have an impact on Florida State University and the Tallahassee community while building your leadership skills. In addition to the SGA’s Executive Branch, Legislative Branch, and the Judicial Branch, there are the Office of Elections and various agencies, bureaus, and affiliated projects. Each SGA unit focuses on an area of significant concern to many students at FSU. Through SGA you can acquire skills and life experiences for future achievements. Here you can advocate for a variety of causes, represent students in your college, and serve on committees that help FSU build upon its proud past to make a better future for those who will come after you. Your opinions and comments matter as we work to make FSU more inclusive, more transparent, and more prosperous. Bring your knowledge, skills, passions, and advocacy to a place where you can make a difference, your SGA. In Seminole Spirit, Stefano J. Cavallaro, Student Body President SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 5
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Executive Branch features a variety of offices designed to enhance our ability to serve students and improve student life.
EXECUTIVE BRANCH The Executive Branch of the Student Government Association enhances the quality of student life and voices concerns of the students to the administration and community. Student Body President Stefano Cavallaro said, “The branch implemented new strategies and brought back old traditions of Florida State University.” “We have made a lot of achievements and improvements to our organization and to the Golden Tribe Lecture Series,” said Cavallaro. “The Executive Branch also brought back the Seminole Uprising tradition and laid the foundation for the implementation of the Garnet Star Discount Program.” Cavallaro said he was happy with the 6 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
goals that the leaders had set and accomplished. “We had to handle what was right in front of us at the time,” Cavallaro said. “That is what it truly means, to us, to be a leader.” “Student Government Association is one of the great things about Florida State University,” he said. “It is a special entity where you get to lead and learn, make mistakes that build who you are and learn from them. The SGA model that we have here is probably one of the best models to give students real-life experiences and opportunities in this nation.” Cavallaro said he expects FSU to reach new heights in the years to come.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Stefano Cavallaro Student Body President
Gerald Johnson II Student Body Vice President
Jorge Rendon Student Body Treasurer
Andrew Wilson Chief of Staff
EXECUTIVE CABINET
Jesse Marks Secretary of Academic Affairs
Steven Palacio Secretary of the Arts
Qaree Dreher Secretary of Programming & Service
Douglas Levinson Secretary of Departmental Affairs
Chelsea LaPlante Secretary of Community & University Affairs
Caitlin Coviello Secretary of Health & Safety
Kayla Burnett Secretary of Public Relations
Laurence Thompson Secretary of Campus Engagement
Jennifer Lucas Deputy Chief of Staff
Not Pictured: Amber A. Johnson (Press Secretary)
• Organized improvements to the Golden Tribe Lecture Series, bringing in guests Danny Glover and Felix Justice for Martin Luther King Jr. Week. • Brought back the Seminole Uprising Tradition, a recruiting process for student athletes in the Sunshine State program. • Laid the foundation to implement the Garnet Star Discount Program for student discounts in exchange for free advertising. • Voiced concerns of the students to the administration and community on campus life, and helped to resolve those concerns. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 7
EXECUTIVE AWARDS 2014-2015
Cabinet Member of the Year Jesse Marks Agency Director of the Year Katrina Pitt Agency Board of the Year The Hispanic/Latino Student Union Event/Program of the Year “The kNOw MORE Campaign” by the Women Student Union Bureau Director of the Year Alexa Cronin Bureau Board of the Year Student Council on Undergraduate Research and Creativity Event/Program of the Year Economic Development Council by the Office of Entrepreneurship and Creativity Legacy of Leadership Award Alyssa Musacchio
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SGA TODAY
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Students get a warm welcome to FSU with a good plate of BBQ.
WELCOME BACK BBQ 10 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
8/27
WELCOME BACK BBQ
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Interim president Garnett Stokes and student body president Stefano Cavallaro joins FSU students as they “cool off” with buckets of ice for charity, responding to Oklahoma State’s challenge.
ALS ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE 12 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
8/27
ALS ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE
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EXECUTIVE BRANCH
EXECUTIVE RETREAT
9/12
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
PIZZA WITH THE PRESIDENT
12/1
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION FSU students celebrate Seminole Pride at Homecoming on November 7, 2014.
HOMECOMING 16 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
HOMECOMING
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION After the tragic events that occured on campus, students, faculty and staff join together to stand united.
FSUNITED 18 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
11/20
FSUNITED
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
ELECTION DAY
2/25 COFFEE TALK
1/21
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
PIZZA PITSTOP
2/18
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GOLDEN TRIBE LECTURE SERIES
Scientist, engineer, comedian, author and inventor Bill Nye is a man with a mission: to help foster a scientifically literate society and to help people everywhere understand and appreciate the science that makes our world work. Bill’s fascination with how things work led him to Cornell University and a degree in Mechanical Engineering. After graduation, he headed for Seattle to work as an engineer at Boeing. In Seattle, Bill combined his love of science with his flair for comedy, developing dual careers as an engineer by day and a stand-up comic by night. This is where “Bill Nye the Science Guy®” was born. Bill has two patents on educational products, promotes the EarthDial Project, and regularly visits Cornell as a professor in his own right. Bill is currently the Executive Director of The Planetary Society, the world’s largest space interest organization.
BILL NYE 9/16 Former Congressman Ron Paul of Texas enjoys a national reputation as the premier advocate for liberty in politics today, speaking for limited constitutional government, low taxes, free markets and a return to sound monetary policies based on commodity-backed currency. While serving Congress in the late 1970’s and early 80’s, Dr. Paul served on the House Banking committee, where he was a strong advocate for sound monetary policy and an outspoken critic of the Federal Reserve’s inflationary measures. Since his retirement from Congress, Dr. Paul has continued to work for limited constitutional government through organizations he founded, including the Foundation for Rational Economics and Education (FREE), Campaign for Liberty, and Liberty PAC. Dr. Paul is the author of several best-selling books, most recently released is “The School Revolution: A New Answer for Our Broken Education System.”
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10/2 RON PAUL
The mission of the series is to engage students in issues and dialogue that will positively benefit their overall academic, scholastic, or humanitarian experience. Danny Glover and Felix Justice are prominent figures in the fight for Civil Rights. In discussing the importance of arts in education, they examine the intersections of Art, Culture, and Activism. Using examples from their lives and the great works of literature, both men bring to life their devotion to the education of young people by inspiring the next generation of leaders in the world. Danny Glover attended San Francisco State College and trained at the Black Actors’ Workshop of the American Conservatory Theatre. In recognition of his lifetime dedication to public service, Glover was honored with the 2003 NAACP Chairman’s Award. Felix Justice studied theater in both San Francisco and New York. His one-man Martin Luther King, Jr., show, “Prophecy in America,” premiered in 1981 at San Francisco’s Lorraine Hansberry Theatre and subsequently toured throughout the United States and Africa.
ARIANNA HUFFINGTON 2/24
GOLDEN TRIBE LECTURE SERIES
DANNYGLOVER 1/20 & FELIXJUSTICE Arianna Huffington is among the most influential players shaping the national conversation on politics, the economy, the media and public policy. An entrepreneur and business leader, Huffington provides an informed view on the state of the current business landscape and the impact of our financial policy on the future of the economy. Celebrated for her work as the co-founder and editor-in-chief of the Huffington Post, which in 2012 won its first Pulitzer Prize, Huffington has garnered worldwide acclaim. Her achievements including being named in 2011 to the TIME 100, the magazine’s annual list of the most influential people in the world. Her new book, Thrive: Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder debuted at #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. Huffington’s book follows up on the success of her acclaimed Third Metric conference offering people a new definition of success.
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HEADLINERS
KEVIN HART FSU’s Headliners Artist Series brought comedian Kevin Hart to campus on Sunday, November 16th, 2014. In promotion for his next movie, The Wedding Ringer, the Student Life Cinema hosted a private advance screening of the film. Following the screening was an evening comedy performance by Kevin Hart at the Donald L. Tucker Civic Center, hosted by SGA, Union Productions, and Student Activities.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, students celebrate Florida State University’s 27th Annual MLK Week and go from“Social Media to Social Change: Beyond the Hashtag.”
MLK WEEK
1/14 – 1/21
EVENTS 1/14 - When Conflict Meets Change: A Visual Perspective 1/14 - Our Voices: Past, Present, & Future 1/15 - Dinner Dialogue 1/16 - Block Party 1/16 - Black Film Festival 26 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1/19 - MLK Day of Service 1/19 - Day of DIalogue, Serving Your Community 1/20 - An Evening with Martin and Langston: featuring Danny Glover and Felix Justice 1/21 - SAC Involvement Fair
MLK WEEK
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Student Senate is the legislative body that serves as the primary liaison between the administration and the student body.
LEGISLATIVE BRANCH The Student Senate consists of 80 members who represent FSU’s 17 colleges. Members are divided into committees, which meet separately to achieve goals specific to their department. The Senate president and pro tempore reside over weekly hearings, where members discuss and vote on various campus issues. The Senate created a guidebook that outlined the expectations and goals of new members. “This way each senator can be more well-read and prepared for meetings,” said Senate President Andrew Forst. “Their time as a senator is much more efficient.” Senate also created an agreement form that detailed the expectations and violations. The form was signed by each senator to ensure accountability. 28 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
The Senate also implemented a system of group goals. This included the top issues that every senator wants to address, specific goals for each committee, as well as individual senator’s goals. “This way each member can be more involved and active in their positions,” Forst said. While every goal may not be achieved, members get to learn why certain goals do not work. “We’re trying to make Senate more realistic; it is a learning process.” Forst was optimistic about the future of the Senate. “I technically won’t be able to carry out my term,” he said, “but I hope to leave a piece of me behind in these guidebooks.” In the future, he hopes for more improvements and ideas for the Senate guidebook and for the tradition of group goals to be continued.
66TH SENATE PRESIDENT & PRO TEMPORE
Lindsay Wood President
Andrea Palermo Pro Tempore
Jean Tabares Pro Tempore (Summer)
66TH SENATE COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Andrew Forst Budget Committee Chair
Evan Roman Budget Committee Vice-Chair
Hillary Harlan Finance Committee Chair
Leah Montenegro Finance Committee Vice-Chair
Allysson Whitter Internal Affairs Committee Chair
Jacques Toussaint Internal Affairs Committee Vice-Chair
Jordan Wagner Judiciary Committee Chair
Derek Silver Judiciary Committee Vice-Chair
Amy Nicotra Student Affairs Committee Chair
Mary Akemon Student Affairs Committee Vice-Chair
Jennifer Lucas RTAC Chair
Gregory Marchesini PAC Chair
Nathan Molina Senate Clerk
Welsey Sapp Sergeant at Arms
Douglas Roberts Parliamentarian
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66TH STUDENT SENATE
Tolulope Atanda Arts & Sciences Seat 1 (Fall)
Kayla D. Burnett Arts & Sciences Seat 3 (Summer)
Ana Vazquez Arts & Sciences Seat 2
Derek Silver Arts & Sciences Seat 3
Katharine Catalano Arts & Sciences Seat 4
Leah Montenegro Arts & Sciences Seat 5
Garibaldy Volney Arts & Sciences Seat 6
Andikan Akpabio Arts & Sciences Seat 7
Tyra Brune Arts & Sciences Seat 8
Eugene Butler Arts & Sciences Seat 9
Evan Roman Business Seat 2
Josh Yagur Business Seat 4
Andrew Forst Business Seat 5
Austin Engelbrecht Business Seat 6
Michael Berrios Business Seat 7 (Fall)
Martin Munoz Communication and Information Seat 1
Katie Holland Communication and Information Seat 2
Devan Patel Engineering Seat 1
Seve Kim Engineering Seat 2 (Spring)
Taihisha Alteme Human Sciences Seat 1 (Fall)
Not Pictured: Megan Sandora (Arts & Sciences Seat 11 (Fall)), Briana Saffold (Arts & Sciences Seat 5 (Summer)), Omar Mills (Business Seat 1 (Fall)), and Zane Mason (Social Sciences Seat 3 (Fall))
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66TH STUDENT SENATE
Tanner Leroy Human Sciences Seat 1
Jadesola Arowolo Human Sciences Seat 2
Edward Mitchell Human Sciences Seat 3
Andrew Burk Music Seat 1 (Fall)
Jean Tabares Social Sciences Seat 1
Mihir Patel Social Sciences Seat 2 (Spring)
Peter Milios Social Sciences Seat 4 (Summer)
Alejandro Acosta Social Sciences Seat 4
Pierre Beaton Social Sciences Seat 5
Pierre Jolicoeur Social Sciences Seat 6
Charles Castagna Social Sciences Seat 6 (Summer)
Rachel Ray Social Work Seat 1
Allyson Whitter Education Seat 1
Amy Nicotra Criminology Seat 1
Erick Adames Criminology Seat 2
Mary Akemon Visual Arts, Theater and Dance Seat 1
John Emanuello Graduate Studies Seat 6
Lauryn Vickers Undergraduate Studies Seat 1
Joseph Brown Undergraduate Studies Seat 2
Michael Medina Undergraduate Studies Seat 3 (Fall)
Not Pictured: Malisha Prophete (Criminology Seat 1 (Summer)), Cortney Criswell (Graduate Studies Seat 2), and Kenya Louidor (Undergraduate Studies Seat 1 (Summer))
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66TH STUDENT SENATE
Tommy Anderson Undergraduate Studies Seat 4
Kevon Randall Undergraduate Studies Seat 5
Courtney Coviello Undergraduate Studies Seat 6 (Summer)
Frazer Collins Undergraduate Studies Seat 6
David Butter Undergraduate Studies Seat 8
Derrick Scott II Undergraduate Studies Seat 9
Abigail Ford Undergraduate Studies Seat 10
Alec Polansky Undergraduate Studies Seat 12
Meredith Albion Undergraduate Studies Seat 13
Elias Farah Undergraduate Studies Seat 14
Alexandra Barth Undergraduate Studies Seat 16
Rebecca Antoine Undergraduate Studies Seat 17 (Summer)
Andrew Jones Undergraduate Studies Seat 17
Nathan Molina Undergraduate Studies Seat 18
Iyanna Pierre-Louis Undergraduate Studies Seat 19
Fritz Maxwell Undergraduate Studies Seat 20
Benoy Sanil Undergraduate Studies Seat 21
Katelyn Schulze Undergraduate Studies Seat 22
Christopher Seifter Undergraduate Studies Seat 23
Joseph Rodberg Undergraduate Studies Seat 24
Tanisha Peterson Panama City Campus
Not Pictured: Nicholas Thorn (Undergraduate Studies Seat 7 (Fall)), Toni Hawkins (Undergraduate Studies Seat 9 (Summer)), Hunter Vila (Undergraduate Studies Seat 11 (Summer)), Benjamin Ouellette (Undergraduate Studies Seat 15 (Fall)), and Eric Natelson (Undergraduate Studies Seat 23 (Summer)) 32 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
67TH SENATE PRESIDENT & PRO TEMPORE
Andrew Forst President
Derrick Scott II Pro Tempore
67TH SENATE COMMITTEE CHAIRS
Evan Roman Budget Committee Chair
Michael Berrios Budget Committee Vice-Chair
Leah Montenegro Finance Committee Chair
Josh Yagur Finance Committee Vice-Chair
Iyanna Pierre-Louis Internal Affairs Committee Chair
Nathan Molina Internal Affairs Committee Vice-Chair
Alejandro Acosta Judiciary Committee Chair
Joe Brown Judiciary Committee Vice-Chair
Ana Vazquez Student Affairs Committee Chair
Hunter Anger Student Affairs Committee Vice-Chair
Andrew Jones RTAC Chair
Derek Silver PAC Chair
Ryan Cote Senate Clerk
Douglas Roberts Parliamentarian
Not Pictured: Richardson Gaston (Sergeant at Arms) and Leo Fernandez (Senate Aide)
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67TH STUDENT SENATE
Derek Silver Arts and Sciences Seat 1
Ana Vazquez Arts and Sciences Seat 2
Joyce Forbes Arts and Sciences Seat 3
HannahBartholomew Arts and Sciences Seat 4
Laura Goldberg Arts and Sciences Seat 5
Leah Montenegro Arts and Sciences Seat 7
Gabrielle Belloit Arts and Sciences Seat 9
Zhong Yi Arts and Sciences Seat 10
Aliah Ruthledge Arts and Sciences Seat 11
Andrew Forst Business Seat 1
Evan Roman Business Seat 2
Derrick Scott II Business Seat 3
Josh Yagur Business Seat 4
Michael Berrios Business Seat 5
Austin Engelbrecht Business Seat 6
Andrew Jones Business Seat 7
Martin Munoz Communication and Information Seat 1
Katie Holland Communication and Information Seat 2
Michael Moorhead Engineering Seat 1
Seve Kim Engineering Seat 2
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67TH STUDENT SENATE
Robby Holroyd Graduate Studies Seat 3
Kimberly T. Anderson Graduate Studies Seat 5
Taihisha Alteme Human Sciences Seat 1
Jadesola Arowolo Human Sciences Seat 2
Kyle Pfeiffer Human Sciences Seat 3
Andrew Burk Music Seat 1
Nicole Hill Social Sciences Seat 1
Kevon Randall Social Sciences Seat 3
Alejandro Acosta Social Sciences Seat 4
Rebecca Antoine Social Sciences Seat 5
Fitzgerald Light Jr. Social Sciences Seat 6
Kayla Braden Education Seat 1
Miranda Lensky Visual Arts, Theater, and Dance Seat 1
Iyanna Pierre-Louis Criminology Seat 1
Kayley Schwartz Undergraduate Studies Seat 1
Joe Brown Undergraduate Studies Seat 2
Sam Peltier Undergraduate Studies Seat 3
Hunter Anger Undergraduate Studies Seat 5
Frazer Collins Undergraduate Studies Seat 6
Erin Lusaka Arts and Sciences Seat 6
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67TH STUDENT SENATE
William Whitmire Undergraduate Studies Seat 7
Sam Kerce Undergraduate Studies Seat 9
Abigail Ford Undergraduate Studies Seat 10
Kianni Newman Undergraduate Studies Seat 11
Alec Polansky Undergraduate Studies Seat 12
Courtney Bullock Undergraduate Studies Seat 13
Corey Smith Undergraduate Studies Seat 15
Alexandra Barth Undergraduate Studies Seat 16
Mitchell Lipham Undergraduate Studies Seat 17
Nathan Molina Undergraduate Studies Seat 18
Parker Eastland Undergraduate Studies Seat 19
Fritz Maxwell Undergraduate Studies Seat 20
James L. Doyle Undergraduate Studies Seat 21
EmmelineChopourian Undergraduate Studies Seat 23
Ken Ayers Panama City Campus
• Served as the voice of the Student Body through resolutions, bills, and participation in university-wide committees. As of the end of Spring 2015, the 66th Student Senate had considered 84 bills and 55 resolutions and the 67th Student Senate had considered 36 bills and 28 resolutions. • Created a guidebook for new senators, a leadership training role, which outlines rules and expectations, and established an agreement form for new members to make them more accountable in their positions. • Supported university initiatives such as Gathering of Unity, FSU Food Pantry, PeaceJam, Rite to A-rak-ke-ce-tv, reCycle Bike Program, S.A.F.E. Bus, International Coffee Hour, and FSU Departments such as the Globe, Disability Resource Center, Health Promotions, and Dirac and Strozier Library from Senate Projects. • Allocated funds to over 40 organizations to support programming on campus, and 150 student organizations to travel through PAC and RTAC. 36 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
LEGISLATIVE AWARDS 2014-2015 Russel Hellein Award Andrew Forst Jill and Tim Meenan Award Kevon Randall Chair of the Year Ana Vazquez Senator of the Year Alexander Barth New Senator of the Year Nathan Molina Senate Ethics Award Kimberly Anderson SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 37
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION The 66th Student Senate met at the Florida Capitol.
SENATE AT THE CAPITOL 38 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
10/8
SENATE AT THE CAPITOL
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
SENATE INAUGURATION 40 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
10/29
SENATE INAUGURATION
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION The 67th Student Senate engaged in a weekend retreat which included the FSU Reservation’s high-challenge course and a workshop facilitated by Senate President and Pro Tempore.
SENATE RETREAT 42 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1/25
SENATE RETREAT
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The Street Team provides students with the events and opportunities within the Student Government Association, and community outreach for the SGA themselves.
STREET TEAM Street Team surveys and informs students of SGA events and opportunities and provides community outreach for the SGA. They expanded their membership and established a board to be responsible for planning goals and activities. With the recent Student Government elections, Street Team informed students of the positions’ responsibilities from a nonbiased standpoint. Many students, unaware of the various positions being voted on, were hesitant to listen to candidates pushing their campaigns. Throughout the election process, Street Team reached out to dorms, classrooms and bulletin boards in academic buildings. “A lot of students don’t realize that these positions actually have important roles on campus, and we were able to explain to voters 44 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
why their vote matters,” said Justin Ravelo, Street Team’s director. Ravelo took pride in their survey of FSU students regarding the Campus Carry Bill. Street Team surveyed more than 300 students, many of whom had no idea the bill was going through Florida Legislature. Through their efforts, students were informed of ways they could share their opinions on campus, such as attending Senate meetings. “I believe this is the core reason Street Team exists, to inform students of what SGA is doing for them and how they can get involved,” Ravelo said. Street Team operated as a project through the Student Affair Committee, but it hoped to become a separate SGA organization, and to assist the Legislative and Executive branches.
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Justin Ravelo Director
Hannah Bartholomew Board of Directors
Amanda Breslaw Board of Directors
Lauren Lange Board of Directors
Laurence Thompson Executive Liaison
Ana Vazquez Student Affairs Chair
• Revamped Street Team with new membership and a new board of dedicated individuals. • Worked with both the Executive and Legislative Branches of SGA to think of Street Team events and activities. • Recruited students outside of SGA to work with the group and reach out to students. • Informed students about the Campus Concealed Carry in the Legislature and informed students about the SGA Elections.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Congress of Graduate Students represents graduate student interests to the university and community, and is empowered to issue resolutions expressing the views of graduate students and calling attention to important issues.
CONGRESS OF GRADUATE STUDENTS The Congress of Graduate Students is the official representative of graduate students. COGS works in student affairs, conference travel, and research to improve graduate student community life. Catherine Hall, speaker for COGS, said that during the year COGS’s was more involved with on-campus life and more vocal about graduate issues. “We are really proud of our organization, and have added two new seats to the Assembly, the 46 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
Advocacy for Disabled Students and the Advocacy for Veteran Students,” Hall said. The additions gave students more representation. “We also spoke out during the search for a presidential candidate for campus and continued to monitor the situation.” “We wanted to do more than just funding,” Hall said. “We provide a lot of financial help and conference travel for graduate students, but we also want to become more active in the student community.”
COGS SPEAKERS
Catherine Hall COGS Speaker
Tristan Hall Deputy Speaker for Finance
Adewale Akinfaderin Deputy Speaker for Communication
Neleen Leslie Deputy Speaker for Communication
William Nilson Deputy Speaker for Judicial Affairs
COGS REPRESENTATIVES
Adewale Akinfaderin Arts and Sciences Seat 1
Tristan Hall Arts and Sciences Seat 2
Vivianne Asturizaga Arts and Sciences Seat 3
Dayton Syme Arts and Sciences Seat 5
William Nilson Law Seat 1
Corey Luttrell Law Seat 2
Joshua Pratt Law Seat 3
Matthew Uttermark Social Sciences Seat 1
David Petrantoni Social Sciences Seat 2
John Churey Business Seat 1
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COGS REPRESENTATIVES
Tyler Smillie Business Seat 2
Savanna Ward Education Seat 3
Neleen Leslie Communication and Information Seat 1
Matt DelCiampo Music Seat 1
Deborah Daramola Engineering Seat 1
Sahil Gupta Human Sciences Seat 1
Tamara Marryshow Medicine Seat 1
E. Corey Cavannaugh Medicine Seat 1
Christopher Jones Medicine Seat 2
James Gaboardi Special/Undecided Advocate Seat 1
Ashley Carter Minority Student Advocate Seat 1
Catherine Hall At-Large
Not Pictured: Xi Wang (Arts and Sciences Seat 3), Daniel Halperin (Arts and Sciences Seat 4), Chris Raleigh (Social Sciences Seat 1), Sarah Strazzo (Social Sciences Seat 2), Aysha Rose Khan (Social Sciences Seat 3), Shravan Tamaskar (International Student Advocate Seat 1), Matthew Clay (Education Seat 2), Bruce Ferraro (Medicine Seat 2), Richard Lee (Music Seat 2), Logan Edwards (Special/Undecided Advocate Seat 2), and Andi Dangerfield (Visual Arts, Theater, and Dance)
• Added two new seats to Executive Committee: Advocacy for Students with Disabilities and Student Veterans. • Voiced thoughts of the student body during the FSU presidential search. • Focused on graduate student research to improve community life. • Contributed to more activities in the student community to help students get involved with campus life.
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CONGRESS OF GRADUATE STUDENTS
COGS MEETING
3/2
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The Student Supreme Court decides alleged violations of the Student Body Constitution and Statutes. It includes the Supreme Court Justices, Attorney General, and the University Defender.
JUDICIAL BRANCH The Judicial Branch of the SGA hears cases regarding FSU students and RSOs. The branch also interprets the SGA Constitution and Statutes. The branch consists of the Chief Justice, the Supreme Court, the University Defender, who is appointed to defend students appearing before the Supreme Court, and the Student Conduct Review Board, which hears cases solely involved with the Student Conduct Code. During the year, the Judicial Branch proposed a Constitutional Amendment, which was passed by student vote. Previously, law students were required to be enrolled in two classes, Evidence 50 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
and Professional Responsibility, to be a justice on the Student Supreme Court. With the amendment, more law students will be eligible to serve in office. The Judicial Branch handled about 60 cases during the spring election. “Our goal was to do the best we could in hearing cases in a timely and fair manner and despite having an extremely contentious and heavily litigated election cycle,” said Chief Justice Roger Rozanski. “We did a great job in accomplishing that goal.” Rozanski said he planned to work with the Senate to revise the Elections Code to ensure that the elections are carried about correctly and fairly.
SGA TODAY
THE SUPREME COURT
Roger Rozanski Chief Justice
Ian Waldick Attorney General
Shanna-Kay Gibbs Associate Justice
Leonard Hebb Associate Justice
Not Pictured: Nina Schmidt (Associate Justice)
• Proposed a Constitutional Amendment. • Handled about 60 cases during the spring election. • Rendered timely advisory opinions to the Senate and Student Body President. • Attended Senate meetings to build Judicial-Legislative relations. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 51
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Office of Elections recognizes political parties, hosts discussions, and conducts and facilitates campus elections.
OFFICE OF ELECTIONS The Office of Elections organizes and monitors SGA elections to ensure that all parties follow the rules and participate fairly. The Office of Elections made sure that students were aware they have a voice and encouraged them to vote in elections. “This year we have increased voter turnout, which was our main goal,” said Alexis Sanchez, supervisor of elections. “We also bought Facebook ads to increase social media presence and advertised through posters and tabling at each 52 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
of the dining halls.” Sanchez organized two events that were important milestones in the office’s growth: the Presidential Debate and the Black Student Union Forum. Sanchez said elections she would like for the office to work on revise the election code. “We hope to continue the trend of improving and increasing voter turnout for our elections.” Sanchez said. “We want every student to vote. We want to show them it’s not a hard thing to do.”
ELECTIONS SUPERVISORS
Alexis Sanchez Supervisor
Kyle MacDonald-Bogart Deputy Supervisor
Jason Miller Deputy Supervisor
• Directed the student election debate, and advertised it across campus to encourage more students to vote. • Held a forum and organized the Black Student Union’s election. • Advertised through Facebook and social media to increase presence and voter turnout. • Organized Fall 2014 and Spring 2015 elections which had a voter turnout of 1,443 and 7,807 students, respectively.
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 53
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION The Executive Debate provided an opportunity for candidates for executive office in the Spring 2015 SGA elections to engage with members of the student body and elaborate on their goals for their prospective office.
PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE 54 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
2/23
PRESIDENTIAL DEBATE
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 55
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION SGA’s agencies assembled for the firstever agency leadership training to prepare them for the coming school year.
ALL AGENCY ADVANCE 56 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
9/7
ALL AGENCY ADVANCE
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 57
The Asian American Student Union works to inspire, educate, and empower those interested in Asian and Pacific Islander American issues.
ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION The Asian American Student Union represents the diverse Asian cultures of Florida State University and the Tallahassee community. AASU extended its outreach and added volunteer opportunities. AASU also furthered its Leadership Development Program to create leaders within the organization. Katrina Pitt, director of AASU, said that AASU incorporated food donation drives into some of their major events to give back to the community. “Hosting the annual Lunar Banquet brought in over 300 people and over 330 non-perishable food donations for the FSU Dean of Students Food Pantry,” Pitt said. She said AASU established a more sustainable 58 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
organization by completing bi-weekly reports and creating transition manuals for new officers. AASU also funded a speaker, Jose Antonio Vargas, for Asian American Heritage month, hosted annually from mid-March to mid-April. “We have been working with the Asian American Alumni organization to provide networking opportunities and resources about life after graduation.” Pitt said. Pitt predicted that passionate and dedicated student leaders will help AASU. “We can only hope that in the future our organization will continue to expand and celebrate the diversity within campus and the Tallahassee community,” she said.
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Katrina Pitt Director
Kathryn Quintin Assistant Director
Victor Tang Treasurer
Manitra Chavanamest Secretary
Paul Tilley Public Relations Coordinator
Emily Wong Programming Coordinator
• Hosted Jose Antonio Vargas, advocate for undocumented Americans, during Asian American Heritage Month. • Donated over 300 non-perishable food items to the Dean of Students Food Pantry. • Aided in the development of over 15 student leaders who participated in the Volunteer Involvement Program. • Worked with the Asian American Alumni Organization to provide networking opportunities and resources for staying connected after graduation. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 59
ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
1
2
60 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1. Do All Students Count?
9/23
2. Tailgate
10/4
3. Experience Asia
10/11
4. Leadership Workshop
10/16
5. Lion Dance Workshop
11/18
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
5
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 61
ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION
1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 2
62 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1. This is How We Roll
11/21
2. H.E.A.L. Workshop
11/19
3. Winter Formal
12/3
4. Lunar Banquet
1/31
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 63
ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION
1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. Holi 2. Barrio 3. Mr. & Ms. AASU Pageant
2
64 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
4. Jose Antonio Vargas
2/28 3/4 3/31 4/1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 65
ASIAN AMERICAN STUDENT UNION
1
2 1. AAMP’D
66 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
4/9 2. AASU Awards Ceremony
4/15
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 67
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Black Student Union, the official representative on issues concerning Black students, offers Black students a form of identity and a social life. BSU functions as a vehicle of communication to the Florida State University faculty and administration. BSU will remember our past, build on the present, and fight for our future.
BLACK STUDENT UNION The Black Student Union offers black students a form of identity and social life, functioning as a vehicle of communication to the faculty and administration of the university. Through programming and engagement, BSU celebrated their culture, expressed their concerns, and bonded in unity. The theme for this year’s Black History Month was “Lift Every Voice,” as BSU brought the entire community together to build relationships that go beyond the steps of the university. The HIV Awareness Block Party and Vital Information educated and informed students. Students connected with alumni during the Fireside Chat, as well as the administration through their Faculty and Staff Mixer. To complete the months-worth of celebration, BSU hosted Motown Getdown and The Plateau, entertaining events that livened the community. In response to the problems faced at home, BSU held a candlelight vigil in commemoration of those who were victimized by police brutality. As #blacklivesmatter trended through social media, BSU opened its house’s doors for safe dialogue in The Check-In. In reaction to these traumatic events, BSU pushed to unite the student body. “We want everyone […] to have a safe 68 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
haven,” says Jacqueline Futch, vice president of BSU. Bringing together more than twenty organizations, ranging from fashion troupes to community service organizations, BSU hosted the Coalition of Black Organizational Leaders (COBOL) involvement fair, showcase, and family reunion. Maurice McDaniel and Ashleigh Anderson waved to the spirited crowds at Homecoming after being crowned Mr. and Ms. Black Student Union to bridge the gap between the general student body and active members of the Student Government Association. Everyone joined in harmony during the Church Service and Soul Food Sunday, an event held regularly through the school year. And to connect with the entire community, BSU unified different cultures across campus through their Ebony and Ivory mixer, their annual cosmo-attire social. Futch felt it was necessary that “not just [the] African-American community, but everybody can have a voice.” Within this year, BSU showcased their culture, relieved anxieties and fears, and united the campus and local community. Futch hopes BSU can “bridge the gap between [the] past, our present, and hopefully put that together to fight for a better future.”
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Rodney Moore President
Jacqueline Futch Vice President
MarcherieThompkins Secretary
Candice Jenkins Treasurer
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Laurence Thompson BSU Ambassador
Ebonique Brooks COBOL Directors
Sheldon Williams COBOL Directors
Nyshell Dixon Community Service
Shanice Smith Fundraising & Sponsorships
Shannon Baker Fundraising & Sponsorships
Lauren Glover Health & Athletics
Rashard Johnson Health & Athletics
Teni Ajayi Homecoming
Kayla Burnett Incite
Joyce Philippe Incite
Kianna Talley Master Coordinators
Rehema Armorer Membership
MarkenleyCherenfant Membership
Derice Lawton ProfessionalDevelopment
Mackenzie Cesar Political Education
Jacques Toussaint PR & Marketing
Cecily Matthews Political Education
Jakeyah Gadson PR & Marketing
Viesha Andrews Professional Development
Mone’t King Socials & Events
Not Pictured: Leah Ellis (Community Service), Deidre Evans (Homecoming), Caylin Stubbs (Master Coordinators), and David Daceus (Socials & Events) SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 69
BLACK STUDENT UNION
BSU holds a candlelight vigil to remember those who were victims of police brutality.
1
2
70 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
5
1. Candlelight Vigil
8/24
2. Ebony and Ivory Mixer
9/22
3. Family Friday
10/10
4. Dear White People
10/20
5. The State of Blackademics
11/18
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 71
BLACK STUDENT UNION
72 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1
2
3
4
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. The Check-In
5
12/4
2. BHM Opening Ceremonies
2/2
3. Unlimited Credit
2/4
4. HIV Awareness Block Party
2/5
5. 70s House Party
2/6
6. COBOL Family Reunion
2/7
6
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 73
BLACK STUDENT UNION
1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
2
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1. Church Service
2/8
2. Soul Food Sunday
2/8
3. Motown Getdown
2/11
4. I Have a Dream
2/10
5. Fireside Chat
2/16
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
5
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 75
BLACK STUDENT UNION
1
2 1. The Plateau
76 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
2/18 2. Faculty Mixer
2/19
• Hosted Black History Month at FSU through a variety of educational and entertainment programs. • Responded to recent tragedies in the country through vigils and open dialogue. • Connected black students, alumni, faculty, and staff through mixers. • United affiliate organizations through involvement fairs, showcases, and a family reunion at Myers Park. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 77
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION BSU members say their farewells and celebrate the incoming BSU officers at the BSU Inauguration.
BSU INAUGURATION 78 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
4/21
BSU INAUGURATION
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 79
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Hispanic/Latino Student Union seeks to unify, inform, and serve the Hispanic/ Latino community at Florida State University and in Tallahassee. The HLSU offers educational and cultural learning opportunities for the Florida State University community and opportunities for the Hispanic/Latino community.
HISPANIC/LATINO STUDENT UNION The Hispanic/Latino Student Union seeks to unify, inform, and serve the Hispanic/ Latino community at Florida State University and in Tallahassee. Krysta Galeano, assistant director of the HLSU, said that HLSU focused on community outreach and providing a safe space on campus. “We have made a direct effort to assist Latinowned businesses in Tallahassee,” Galeano said. “Most of the businesses are restaurants, and we help to fundraise and raise awareness.” HLSU also reached out to the Panhandle Area Educational Consortium (PAEC), who helped migrant workers 80 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
with reading and homework, to deliver about 60 toys during Three Kings Day. On campus HLSU promoted more community outreach and institutional equality, providing resources and literature for parents who cannot read or speak English. To students’ parents, HLSU offered documentation in their native language, allowing them to assist their children in filling out forms. “As an administration, we have provided a safe space for people with culture to come and feel like they belong,” Galeano said. “We want to create opportunities for equality.”
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Cristian Guadamuz Director
Krysta Galeano Assistant Director
Jimmy Calvo Treasurer
Gabriel Baratto Secretary
Georgette Cartagena Internal Affairs
Maria Jesus Morice Community Service Co-Chair
Giovanni Rocco Education Chair
Carla Carvalho Community Service Co-Chair
Alejandro Acosta Membership
Alejandro Moreno Political Action Chair
Maria Aldana Press and Publicity Co-Chair
Hannah Everett Social Chair
Not Pictured: Angelica Barroso (Athletics Chair), Moises Escobar (Press and Publicity CoChair), and Yunuen Delgado (Fundraising Chair)
• Assisted with the awareness and fundraising of several Latin-owned businesses in the Tallahassee area. • Hosted the first ever Cesar Chavez week in commemoration of activists Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. • Provided resources for students’ parents who do not read or speak English to help with forms. • Reached out to PAEC and the 3 Kings Day event and helped to deliver about 60 toys to children.
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 81
HISPANIC/LATINO STUDENT UNION
82 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1
2
3
4
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. Care Move-In
6/14
2. Weekly FIFA Showings in El Centro
5
3. Bowling Social
6/27
4. Community Service
7/19
5. Kickball Madness
7/28
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 83
HISPANIC/LATINO STUDENT UNION
1
3
84 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
2
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
4
1. State of Latinos in the US
9/18
2. Support Un Negocio Latino
9/23
3. The Cuban Guy
9/26
4. Latinos Poderosos
9/30
5. Faculty Mixer
10/6
5
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 85
HISPANIC/LATINO STUDENT UNION
1
2
86 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. HLSU Olympics
4
10/12
2. A State of Affairs
3/30
3. Civil Movements
4/2
4. Sensato del Patio
4/3
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 87
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION HLSU’s Annual Gala featured cultural performances, authentic paella, and a live band.
HLSU GALA 88 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
4/6
HLSU GALA
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 89
Pride Student Union supports lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer students across campus no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. It creates a safe and positive environment through addressing students’ needs and increasing awareness of issues pertinent to them.
PRIDE STUDENT UNION Pride Student Union strives to maintain a safe space for students regardless of gender identity, gender expression and sexual orientation, and to educate the community on a diversity of issues in an engaging and welcoming atmosphere. Rosanna Rizo, director of Pride Student Union, said, “Pride worked to raise awareness of issues faced by trans students. “We now have All Gender bathrooms in both the Student Disability Resource Center and the Health and Wellness Center, which is a big step forward.” Rizo said. “We are also working on developing nongendered bathroom signs to foster language and awareness of trans representation.” Pride created education seminars for students to learn about their community in “Queering History.” 90 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
Rizo said the educational segments gave students a look into queer culture such as, music, media, characters and literature. “One thing I was really excited about was bringing Bamby Salcedo to campus, a trans Latina woman.” Rizo said. “She spoke about her experience as a tans woman of color on campus, and we showed TRANSVISIBLE, which is a documentary of her life, her activist work and her non-profit work.” Pride continued advocacy for trans rights on campus by working with the name and gender registry with myFSU to allow for students to select the gender they identify with in the system. Pride has also been in contact with Residence Life to begin putting All Gender bathrooms in student housing. Rizo said that, “education is what is most important.”
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Rosanna Rizo Director
Jonathan Horton Assistant Director
Kimberly Lees Center Director
Giovanni Rocco Political Actions Coordinator
Catherine Jones External Affairs Coordinator
Sofia Palmero Programming Coordinator
Not Pictured: Yes Segura (Treasurer)
• Focused on trans representation and awareness on campus. • Supported the creation of All Gender bathrooms in multiple locations on campus. • Educated students through Queering History seminars. • Brought guest speaker Bamby Salcedo, who helped to inspire queer and trans youth to continue the fight for LGBTQ+ rights everywhere. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 91
PRIDE STUDENT UNION
1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
2
92 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1. Drag Me To Hell: Fall Drag Show
8/29
2. LGBTQ+ Resource Center Open House
9/10
3. Cosmic Bowling
9/26
4. Pride Month Opening
10/1
5. Open Door and March to Capitol
10/12
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
5
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 93
PRIDE STUDENT UNION
94 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1
2
3
4
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
5
6
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
7
1. Outspoken
10/15
2. Swap Meet
10/20
3. Drag Condom Bingo
10/23
4. Transvisible: Bamby Salcedo’s Story
10/26
5. Pride Halloween Party
10/29
6. Queering History: Music
1/27
7. XOXO QTs GBM
2/12
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 95
PRIDE STUDENT UNION
1
2
96 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. Pocket QTs 2. Fice & Ice Prom 3. End of Year Banquet
2/19 4/8 4/23
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 97
The Women Student Union fosters the growth of women personally, professionally, and politically.
WOMEN STUDENT UNION Women Student Union advocates for women’s issues and concerns. The agency reaches out to FSU women through its programs and promotes activism for important political issues. WSU established a mentorship program which paired incoming female students with alumni. “Through our mentorship program, not only do women get a sense of connection, but they also get a chance to build a new supportive relationship.” said Khadijah Templier, WSU assistant director. WSU hosted events throughout March to celebrate Women’s History Month. WSU held a general body 98 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
meaning to introduce the month and the Lady’s Legacy Banquet. The banquet celebrated all FSU women and spotlighted specific women who made a difference this academic year. WSU also received Program of the Year for their #kNOwMORE campaign. The program targeted sexual assault and harassment at FSU by encouraging education and discussion. In the future, Templier hoped to continue supporting FSU women. “Throughout our lives we face a lot of obstacles as women,” Templier said. “WSU is here to provide resources and empowerment.”
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Ashleigh Gregoria Director
Khadijah Templier Assistant Director
Taihisha Alteme Membership
Samantha Horvitz OWL Coordinator
Kimberly Myers Political Actions
Carly Trocchia Director of Finance
Not Pictured: Mariah Roman (Director of Administration), Tamara Byrd (Historian), Lydia Macdonald Mansfield (WHM Chair), Patricia Barrett (Public Relations Coordinator), and Megan Cromwell (External Affairs Coordinator)
• Combated sexual assault on campus through support of the #kNOwMORE campaign. • Received Program of the Year for #kNOwMORE public service video, an award that spotlights an SGA agency’s specific program or initiative. • Established a mentorship program to acquaint incoming students with alumni. • Hosted Women’s History Month at FSU through many programs and events. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 99
WOMEN STUDENT UNION
1. Open House 2. Get Your Sherlock On 100 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1
2
3
4
8/27 3. Girl Chatter
9/9
9/2 4. Coffee Talk
9/28
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
5
6 5. #kNOwMORE PSA Screening
10/9 6. Ladies Legacy Banquet
10/12
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 101
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Office of Governmental Affairs provides students with representation and advocacy within the university community and at all levels of government, as well as information about key governmental issues and its impact.
OFFICE OF GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS The Office of Governmental Affairs provides students with representation at all levels of government. Special emphasis is placed on monitoring the Florida governmental process, a major source of funding for Florida State University. The Office of Governmental Affairs Board of Directors informed students of key issues of interest and acted as the voice of the students at the state and federal legislatures. This year, OGA hosted FSU Night at the Capitol 102 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
on March 16. More than 30 members of the state legislature met with students and were honored for their service to the Florida State community. On March 17, OGA trained student activists and held meetings with senators and representatives to discuss legislative priorities. OGA hosted a seminar called Noles Engaged in Politics, where politically motivated underclassmen could hear from speakers within political professions and participate in bill drafting and passing workshops.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Julianne Simson Director
Harrison DuBosar Director
Alessandro D’Amico Deputy Director
Adrian A. Romero Deputy Director
Mason Glen Roth Internal Assistant Director
Joshua Baginski Board of Directors
Rebecca Entenberg Board of Directors
Laura Foreno Board of Directors
Peter Milios Board of Directors
Alexander Morato Board of Directors
Andrea Palermo Board of Directors
Cameron Pennant Board of Directors
Katelyn Schulze Board of Directors
Jean Tabares Board of Directors
• Hosted Night at the Capitol to honor students for service. • Trained student activists to get politically involved in upcoming elections and bills. • Ran a voter registration guide and brought candidates Gwen Graham and Steve Southerland to campus giving students the opportunity to learn more about the candidates and become informed voters. • Hosted Noles Engaged in Politics to allow students to hear from professional political speakers.
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 103
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION OGA hosted this even that encouraged constitutencies to register for the upcoming election, as well as educating them on issues on the ballot. Event also included a meet and greet with gubernatorial and congressional candidates.
CHAMPION THE VOTE 104 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
9/30
CHAMPION THE VOTE
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 105
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION FSU celebrates accomplishments of the university with a day at the Capitol.
FSU DAY AT THE CAPITOL 106 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
3/17
FSU DAY AT THE CAPITOL
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 107
The Freshman Leadership Institute helps freshmen gain leadership experience in their first year at Florida State University.
FRESHMAN LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE The Freshman Leadership Institute is a 10-week program designed to aid new students in becoming acclimated to FSU’s campus and culture. The institute provides leadership development experiences as well as professional development. FLI offers workshops, retreats, family groups, and a peer mentoring component, which help the participants with their adjustment to college. FLI selected 42 freshmen to join the program in the fall of 2014. Along with a diverse leadership team, FLI increased its membership and introduced new workshops and ideas. Through the restructuring of the Family Groups and Mentorship program, FLI enhanced the experience that participants were having. FLI had a number of notable accomplishments throughout the year. The Mentor Reveal connected 108 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
the 42 FLI participants with 42 student leaders from around campus. FLI participants also held “New Kidz on the Block,” a 90s-themed carnival geared toward first year students. The FLI Retreat at the FSU Reservation and the First Year Experience Banquet were exciting experiences that brought the group together and celebrated their accomplishments. To top off the Fall 2014 FLI experience, the students participated in multiple Homecoming activities and won the overall Class Councils Cup. Ausar Amadi, FLI Facilitator, said he hoped to increase membership and make sure ach FLI student can become a prepared and efficient student leader. “I feel convinced that we were very successful in laying the groundwork for FLI to continue to expand all facets of our program,” he said. “I remain optimistic for the future success of this student-run organization.”
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Alyssa Musacchio FLI Director
Ausar Amadi FLI Faciliator
Camille Layton FLI Faciliator
Richea Osei FLI Faciliator
Laurence Thompson FLI Faciliator
Not Pictured: Remi Escudie (FLI Faciliator)
• Served as the premier executive project within SGA that assists freshmen in their acclimation to life at FSU. • Fostered mutually beneficial and fulfilling peer mentor relationships between FLI student participants and experienced student leaders. • Created a diverse network of students who served as leaders throughout campus programs and student organizations. • Participated in FSU’s 2014 Homecoming Week events and won the Class Councils Cup. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 109
FRESHMEN LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS 1. FLI Meeting
9/8
2. Mentor Reveal
9/15
3. FLI Retreat
9/27
4. New Kidz on the Block
10/22
2
110 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
1
SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
3
4
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 111
The Transfer Leadership Institute is the premier transfer student organization at FSU assisting in the development and success of transfer student leaders.
TRANSFER LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE The Transfer Leadership Institute is a 10-week program that helps transfer students build their leadership skills and adjust to campus life a Florida State. This year, TLI accomplished all of the goals set out at the beginning of the year. Viesha Andrews, a TLI facilitator, said TLI is a home away from home for transfer students. “We build familiarity and community for these students so that they can adjust to the new campus and area much more smoothly,” Andrews said. “It is exciting 112 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
to have this redefining stage as we now have the ability to develop our program.” TLI planned to work through the summer to help transfer students learn about their organization when they come to campus for orientation. “It’ll be nice for students to see our organization as they never got the chance before,” Andrews said. “Increasing our representation within orientation will help them get a chance to see our organization and what it can do for them.”
SGA TODAY
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Paula Rodriguez TLI Director
Latifah Carty TLI Faciliator
Viesha Andrews TLI Faciliator
Not Pictured: Remi Escudie (FLI Faciliator)
• Aided in the development of over 35 transfer student leaders. • Honored the first ever Transfer Student Leader of the Year during Leadership Awards Night, Devon Stewart. • Facilitated mutually beneficial peer mentor relationships between TLI participants and FSU student leaders. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 113
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Freshman Leadership Institute and Transfer Leadership Institute celebrated their first year experience with their annual banquet.
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE BANQUET 114 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
11/18
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE BANQUET
SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 115
STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Class Councils work to create traditions for the campus community and to instill unity amongst each class year.
CLASS COUNCILS 116 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SENIOR CLASS COUNCIL
Haylie Collins Senior Class President
Matthew Hooper Senior Class Vice President
Jazmyn Reed Senior Class Secretary
Logan Kanai Senior Class Treasurer
Desiree Saunders Senior Class Member at Large
Desmond Bacon Senior Class Member at Large
Michelle Boughan Senior Class Member at Large
Kelley Williams Senior Class Member at Large
Not Pictured: Amy Daire (Senior Class Member at Large)
The Senior Class Council creates works to create unity among students and inspires them to take pride in their graduating class. The Council wants students to experience the opportunities to gather in a safe environment and have fun. Haylie Collins, president of the Senior Class Council, said, “The Senior Class Council’s goals were to raise interest in Class Councils for future students to get involved.” “I think our organization’s biggest accomplishment this far was the Away Game Viewings that we hosted in the fall,” Collins said. “The Away Game Viewings are a fun and safe way for students to come together and cheer on the Noles!” The Council’s many goals involved finishing
the fundraising for the current class gift, a granite emblem in front of the Legacy Fountain near the football stadium. “We have not yet reached the goal, but the year is not over yet, so we’re still hopeful!” Collins said. Another goal was to have the Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Class Councils meet regularly to develop the most cohesive team possible. “FSU Class Councils are still young organizations, but we have seen an increasing amount of students becoming interested in them and I hope that number continues to grow!” Collins said. She said the Council hoped that its hard work and advertising would create a much larger presence on campus and get more students to participate.
• Organized the Away Game Viewing events which created community and provided a fun environment to watch the away football games. • Revitalized the All Council Meetings, which created a space for mentoring and continued development. • Assisted in the relaunch of the university’s Countdown to Commencement website. • Hosted the 3rd annual Senior Sendoff week of events including the President’s Toast, Taking Back Suwannee, and the Last Market Wednesday. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 117
JUNIOR CLASS COUNCIL
Jada Jones Junior Class President
Kaylee Hartman Junior Class Vice President
CatherineShoemaker Junior Class Secretary
Jacques Toussaint Junior Class Treasurer
Joi Dukes Junior Class Member at Large
Denitsa Kolev Junior Class Member at Large
Jomesha Brown Junior Class Member at Large
Nina Monaghan Junior Class Member at Large
Bianca Almero Junior Class Member at Large
Natalie Dobek Junior Class Member at Large
Quentin Carter Junior Class Member at Large
Neysa Gant Junior Class Member at Large
Patria Smithey Junior Class Member at Large
Shelandra Battle Junior Class Member at Large
The Junior Class Council is dedicated to preparing juniors for their final years of college through resources on active job searching, resume building and professional networking. Jada Jones, Junior Class Council president, said the group hosted events that benefitted juniors. “We are staying focused on creating programming that has to do with being a third-year student,” Jones said. The Council worked to increase awareness of all of the Class Councils. “We were able to accomplish our goals by participating in as many FSU community events as possible,” Jones said.
The Council contributed to Homecoming, The Big Event, and hosted a career-oriented event tailored to the needs of juniors. Jones expressed eagerness to see the traditions that the Class Councils will create. “Our purpose is to provide unity toward one’s class and create traditions for years to come,” said Jones. The Council held new events this year, like the “Slice of Success” event, to help juniors find and use essential resources to help them prepare for senior year. They also hosted “Nole Jr”, a year-end celebration of the transition from being a junior to becoming a senior.
• Increased awareness of the Class Councils and provided opportunities for students to become more involved. • Participated in several FSU events including the BIG Event and Homecoming 2014. • Held a career fair to provide resources to aid in the preparation for senior year. • Created an event celebrating juniors and their transition to their final year of college. 118 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SOPHOMORE CLASS COUNCIL
Valerie Shallow Sophomore Class President
Courtney Kantor Sophomore Class Vice President
Logan Rand Sophomore Class Secretary
John Russo Sophomore Class Treasurer
Mia Muldrow Sophomore Class Member at Large
Edwin Elliot Sophomore Class Member at Large
Nequiel Reyes Sophomore Class Member at Large
Hannah Bartholomew Sophomore Class Member at Large
Daniel Bell Sophomore Class Member at Large
Ariel Smith Sophomore Class Member at Large
Not Pictured: Chris Holzworth (Sophomore Class Member at Large) and David Riusech (Sophomore Class Member at Large)
• Hosted four separate events in line with the campaign “Learn More, Do More, Be More, SophoMORE” • Created the “Before I Graduate” wall where students could share their goals to accomplish before graduation. • Participated in The Big Event, a university wide day of community service. • Held a study session with snacks to ensure students had the comfort and space to prepare for upcoming tests.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Class Councils hosted an away game viewing party on the Union Green with a large blowup screen, DJ, and tabling organizations.
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AWAY GAME VIEWINGS
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CLASS COUNCILS
BEFORE I GRADUATE
3/24
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
CAREER EXPO
2/19
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION The Class of 2015 gathered in ceremony to dip their class rings before they walked across the stage.
SENIOR WEEK
4/20-4/23 EVENTS
4/20 - The President’s Senior Toast 4/21 - Taking Back Suwannee 4/21 - Ring Dip 4/22 - Last Market Wednesday 4/23 - Senior Celebration at the Bookstore 124 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SENIOR WEEK
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OFFICE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP & INNOVATION EXECUTIVE BOARD
Daniel Dispenziere Director Not Pictured: Jesse Henry (Assistant Director), Joseph Rodberg (Director of Student Startups) and Even Baklid (Director of Marketing)
The Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides an on-campus location for students to share business ideas with access to necessary resources. Founded by the 66th Student Senate, the OEI emerged in the spring of 2014 as the go to spot for small business owners and entrepreneurial students to advance their business or idea.
STUDENT SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Jessica Blackband Director
Alexandra Duprey Assistant Director
Katharine Vern Media Chair
The Office of the Student Stability Initiative advances the sustainable culture of Florida State and actively engages the student body in sustainability related projects, environmental education, and policy action. Serving as an umbrella organization for sustainability and environmentally related RSO’s, the Office of Student Sustainability fosters communications and collaborative actions. OSS represents the student voice on sustainability 126 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
related issues in relation to the university’s administration at large. The OSS works with many RSO’s on a variety of projects at Florida State.
OFFICE OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE BOARD
Alexa Cronin Director
Wesley Sapp Associate Director
Sarah Mundt Treasurer
Not Pictured: Victoria Sunnergren (Special Events Chair)
The Office of Servant Leadership provides support through funding and assistance to service-based organizations. It aims to preserve and cultivate the spirit and action of service, philanthropy, advocacy, social justice, and leadership at Florida State University. The Office of Servant Leadership works to promote philanthropy and leadership by engaging students with fundraising and community service. OSL is an executive board that has liaisons who direct students to the many service opportunities at FSU. OSL provides resources and support for students and a number of service-oriented organizations admitted into the Service Council. In the fall, at their first Service Fair in the Student Union, OSL presented students with various service opportunities on campus and in the community. At a second Service Fair in the spring, more than 25 student groups participated. OSL continued cosponsoring campus-wide events, such as Peace Jam
Public Talk, TEDxFSU, Relay for Life, The BIG Event, Light the Night and With Words. Alexa Cronin, OSL director, said the office succeeded in promoting student awareness of OSL. “I believe that our board was successful in doing this by increasing public relations with Facebook and flyers on campus,” Cronin said. OSL also furthered their presence by attending SGA events and speaking at their co-sponsored events. “We believe that service and our bureau, The Office of Servant Leadership, further enhance the mission of FSU through Vires, Artes and Mores.” said Cronin. She hoped to make OSL more well-known, to get more students involved on campus and in the community.
• Hosted the first annual Service Fair on Union Green in fall 2014 with more than 25 student organizations represented. • Co-sponsored the Peace Jam Public Talk, which brought Nobel Peace Prize laureate Adolfo Perez Esquivel to speak on campus. • Co-sponsored TEDxFSU in spring 2015, which brought 12 speakers to spread ideas that go “Against the Current.” • Co-sponsored Relay for Life, which raised more than $200,000 for the American Cancer Society.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
SERVICE FAIR 128 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
2/11
SERVICE FAIR
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INTER-RESIDENCE HALL COUNCIL EXECUTIVE BOARD
Divya Pubbi Director
Erik Yakes Assistant Director
Malik Ivey Assistant Director of Finance
Chloe Halfhide Assistant Director of Relations
Not Pictured: Mikayla Blue (Natl. Comm. Coordinator)
The Inter-Residence Hall Council engages students in the on-campus living experience through leadership development, community involvement, and peer advocacy. The Inter-Residence Hall Council governs all student life in residence halls, represents their views and enhances communication between halls. Divya Pubbi, director of IRHC said, “We wanted to create a more meaningful experience for each student living on campus.” “We expanded our network to the 6,900 residents and gave each student an opportunity to be involved,” Pubbi said. “We also developed numerous leadership opportunities for these students to share their passions with their peers. IRHC participated in Dance Marathon at FSU and Relay for life for the first time this year. “ Pubbi said that the focus of IRHC was an internal one. “The focus was derived from the following ideas: lead, innovate, advocate, strengthen, and
connect.” IRHC advocated by creating a newsletter and publicity committee where more student voices could be heard while also working with many agencies and bureaus to advocate issues of importance. “We connected students with one another throughout the year via programming, events, team-building retreats, and service events,” Pubbi said. IRHC has ensured that students are getting the support and guidance they need by spending more time ono-on one with their executive board for each hall government. Pubbi is excited for the future of IRHC, “Next year’s programming and student outreach is at the top of the list.” Pubbi said. “IRHC will be a very exciting endeavor to look forward to.”
• Created a more efficient process for hall government by implementing a President’s Council and a Publicity committee. • Participated in Dance Marathon and Relay for Life for the first time. • Strengthened hall governments by spending time one-on-one with the executive board and making sure every student felt they had support and guidance. • Developed a set of “Spark” award which were given to individuals that fit and exemplified leadership and team-building qualities.
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MEDICAL RESPONSE EXECUTIVE BOARD
Shane Morris Executive Director
Allison Pegg Director of Operations
Erik DiGiacomo DirectorofAdministration
The Medical Response Unit is the first response and emergency care for all students, employees, and visitors to Florida State University. The Medical Response Unit is a first response and emergency medical care service for students, employees and campus visitors. MRU, which provides assistance for anyone in need, allows current undergraduate and graduate students to volunteer and gain emergency care skills. MRU completed a total of 3,618 service hours this academic year. In Spring 2015, they expected to surpass 3,500 hours and had already completed 1,805 by March 1. Allison Pegg, director of operations, was particularly proud of Medical Response Unit’s 87 volunteers, one of its largest groups. “They all step up to the plate and are constantly working to
ensure that everyone on our campus is safe and cared for,” Pegg said. MRU provided care for students at many FSU events. The unit’s care for 171 participants at Dance Marathon allowed dancers to continue dancing safely. Collaborating with TCC’s EMT program, MRU established a summer EMT program that gave student volunteers opportunities to apply their skills. MRU planned to continue helping patients and educating their student volunteers. “We want to keep moving forward, keep training, and keep providing opportunities for students to experience pre-hospital emergency care,” Pegg said.
• Treated 197 patients. • Oversaw events such as Dance Marathon, FSU Flying High Circus, Relay of Life, football and baseball games. • Consisted of 87 student volunteers, one of the largest groups in recent history. • Provided students an educational and open environment to help them understand and master the skills of interacting during emergency situations.
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INTER-RESIDENCE HALL COUNCIL
LORD OF THE WINGS
2/9
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SPOTLIGHT EVENTS
WHAT’S ‘APP’ENING?
2/19
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CENTER FOR PARTICIPANT EDUCATION EXECUTIVE BOARD
Regina Joseph Director
Shivaani Ehsaan Assistant Director
Katherine Draken Class Coordinator
Naomi Bradley Class Coordinator
The Center for Participant Education provides an alternative to the traditional curriculum taught at Florida State University. It serves as a forum for progressive and alternative ideas on education, politics, and the arts. The Center for Participant Education, founded in 1968, is the oldest bureau of the Student Government Association. At the foundation of the organization, CPE facilitates teaching each other. “We allow students to teach what they know,” said Shivaani Ehsaan, CPE Assistant Director. “You don’t always need a degree to teach.” A CPE goal was to get more students politically engaged. CPE, continuing a tradition of Coffee Hour, invited students to come by the office on Fridays at noon to discuss activism. During the year, CPE was involved in political movements such as Black Lives Matter. The organization
hosted educational teach-ins, speak outs, and vigils. Throughout the year, CPE fought to protect the rights of transgender individuals by voicing their opposition to Florida House Bill 583. The proposed legislation, according to its language, would require “that use of single sex public facilitates be restricted to persons of sex for which facility is designated.” CPE Director Regina Joseph said she hoped to see a fusion of more activist groups on campus because students can get more things done by working together. “CPE is now open to everyone,“ Joseph said. “Next year we want more students to come out to teach classes and skills!”
• Hosted a weekly Coffee Hour in the CPE office, allowing students to discuss important political issues. • Voiced their opposition of Florida House Bill 583 in order to protect transgender individuals from discrimination. • Organized a handful of teach-ins, speak outs, and vigils to educate the campus community about police brutality. • Provided an avenue for students to become more politically engaged.
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CENTER FOR PARTICIPANT EDUCATION
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UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH EXECUTIVE BOARD
Amy Nicotra Editor In Chief
Kathryn Mazzotta Co Editor
Lauren Lange SCURC Treasurer
Alexandra Barth SCURC Board of Directors
Not Pictured: Sean Freeman (Editor-in-Chief of OWL) and Sydney Jones (SCURC Board of Directors)
The Student Council on Undergraduate Research & Creativity connects the Student Government Association with the academic community, focusing on undergraduate research. The Student Council on Undergraduate Research & Creativity is a student organization that connects SGA with the academic community. Focusing on the undergraduate research community at FSU, SCURC strives to advocate for students in their research endeavors. Director Amy Nicotra said there were many structural changes within SCURC during the year and the organization made great strides. “My goal was to create a team of SCURC leaders to work together to achieve productivity and create a community for students engaged in undergraduate research,” Nicotra said. SCURC continued providing research ambassadors, who mentored students in their undergraduate research endeavors. SCURC also established advising hours for their research ambassadors that allowed students to receive individual mentoring. To fund undergraduates
presenting at research conferences, SCURC distributed more than $5,000 in grants. SCURC held multiple research re-mix events in the Honors, Scholars and Fellows House. These events allowed students involved with undergraduate research to present and engage with audience members. Students not involved with research also attended the presentations. Their Halloween Social, also a success, brought students together who mingled and discussed their research. They also released their annual undergraduate research journal, The Owl, which was created by SCURC’s Editorial Board. “Since this year has been a learning process for everyone, with our new organizational structure, I hope to continue the flow of productivity and organization within SCURC,” Nicotra said. She hoped to host future events that allow anyone interested to get involved with undergraduate research.
• Distributed more than $5,000 in grants to undergraduate students presenting at research conferences. • Published an electronic version of The Owl, an undergraduate research journal created and published by SCURC’s Editorial Board. • Implemented advising hours for research ambassadors to give students one-on-one mentoring in undergraduate research engagement. • Tabled at various FSU events to increase presence on campus. 136 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
COLLEGE LEADERSHIP COUNCILS HUMAN SCIENCES Chelsea Payne - President Paula Rodriguez - Vice President
VISUAL ARTS Victoria Sunnergren - President Emily Curro - Vice President
COMMUNICATION Kelsey Hendershott - President Allison Loehr - Vice President
The College Leadership Councils help students to become leaders within their departments, serving as a liaison between the student body and administration. The College Leadership Councils allow students to become leaders within their departments. The councils serve as liaisons between the administration and the student body, and they create a connection between the multiple schools and majors within each college. The CLCs hosted multiple events that connected students with their colleges. The College of Communication and Information Leadership Council had two successes, an annual Fall Barbeque and a Spring Ice Cream Social. The CLC for the College of Fine Arts scheduled the release of its annual magazine, SIX, which showcases commendable student work. Chair Victoria Sunnergren was particularly proud of the publication’s growth. “We’ve collaborated
with the CLC for the College of Music, which will be represented in the magazine in an interesting way,” she said. The College of Human Sciences Leadership Council raised money for several nonprofit organizations and provided volunteer opportunities for students. They made T-shirts and hosted both a 5K run and an Honors and Awards Night for Human Sciences students. “We are a group of hard-working, devoted students who strive to not only achieve the best for themselves, but for others as well,” said president Chelsea Payne. The councils inspired student leaders, held many successful events, and encouraged students to join and help others within their departments.
• Held the Fall Barbeque and Spring Ice Cream Social through the College of Communication and Information Leadership Council. • Released SIX Magazine through the CLC for the College of Fine Arts. • Hosted a 5K run to fundraise for nonprofits through the College of Human Sciences Leadership Council. • Distributed 30 scholarships, the most ever, for students to take the Wall Street Prep Course through the College of Business Student Leadership Council.
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STUDENT PUBLICATIONS STUDENT EMPLOYEES
Lauren Alsina Photographer
Whitney Carroll Office Assistant
Dana Cila Office Assistant
Julia Crabtree Photographer
Kelley Cunningham Graphic Designer
Amber Davidson Graphic Designer
Devyn Fussman Writer
Nicholas Kielbasa Graphic Designer
Virginia Fouts Graphic Designer
Savion Lang Office Assistant
Joyce Phillippe Broadcast Journalist
Ulissa Sanders Graphic Designer
Jasmine Smith Graphic Designer
Erica Thompson Graphic Designer
Eric Trombetti Journalist
Sarah Williams Photographer
Alicia Wright Office Assistant
Not Pictured: Olushola Lawal (Office Assistant)
• Trained student employees through a new orientation introduced this year. • Designed over 720 unique designs for student organizations. • Opened up to media and journalism coverage of campus events. • Published new works like Celebrating the Spectrum and Zanzi’s Black Book.
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STUDENT PUBLICATIONS
Student Publications provides students with free color printing, design, photography, and publicity services. Student Publications produces works for the Student Government Association and Recognized Student Organizations. Student Publications provides graphic design work, free color printing and, new in 2014-2015, video graphic coverage of events happening on campus. “Student Publications has radically improved its services in the past year,” said Tony Nguyen, media specialist for Student Publications. “With the addition of part-time photographers, videographers, and journalists, Student Publications has become a well-rounded publicity entity.” Nguyen said Student Publications continued publishing prior publications, initiated digital online request forms, and began using a new cloud-based management system to alleviate paper usage in the office.
Student Publications increased production efficiency and outreach with the help of online management software. The office designed over 720 unique designs for student organizations and had its photographers and writers attend over 130 events. “We would definitely love to see our services grow to meet the needs of the students,” Nguyen said. “We are always looking to find the next best way to communicate with them.” He said that Student Publications had begun video productions at the GEOSET Studio to promote SGA Tips: News to Use, the segment that covers student groups and events. He said new publications, such as Celebrating the Spectrum and Zanzi’s Black book, were started this year to cover student agencies. SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 139
WVFS RADIO STATION EXECUTIVE BOARD
David Wolfson Music Director Not Pictured: Savannah Mills (Program Director) and Derek Jones (Manager)
WVFS is Florida State University’s student-led radio station, providing diverse music and news to Tallahassee. WVFS, FSU’s non-commercial, student-led radio station, broadcasts live 24/7 on 89.7 FM. The organization provides diverse music and news to Tallahassee and trains student volunteers to work in radio broadcasting. In the fall WVFS held its annual Birthday Bash, celebrating its 27th anniversary during the Cymbals Eat Guitars show at Club Downunder. WVFS also celebrated the reunion of local band Baccone Dolce, with an event at Gaines Street Fest the next day. WVFS’s music director, David Wolfson, said, “It was great to be able to collaborate with Union Productions for the Club Downunder show, as well as to support something that we think is important for the local community.” WVFS launched a website, which allows the station to broadcast online, update the public on
station events and local music, and receive music requests much faster. WVFS was also nominated for several awards at the College Music Journal Music Marathon in New York City, taking home the award for most improved college radio station in the country. WVFS planned to release a compilation of songs recorded at the WVFS studio. The station continued reaching out to any students who hoped to get involved. “We are really proud of what we’ve accomplished, as I feel we’ve truly improved in the quality of our programming in the past year,” said Alec Lopez, WVFS’s program director. “We plan to continue supporting the needs of the university and its community with a top-notch authority for diverse music, news, sports, and other programming.”
• Launched a website where students can request music and stream the station. • Received the award for CMJ’s Most Improved College Radio Station of 2014. • Collaborated with Club Downunder to hold the station’s anniversary celebration during the Cymbals Eat Guitars show. • Commemorated the reunion of Baccone Dolce, a local band, at Gaines Street Fest.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
The Big Event is one of largest service projects nationally, and provides Tallahassee students the opportunity to give back in a day of community service.
THE BIG EVENT The Big Event is one of the largest service projects nationwide. It is a one-day event for students to say “thank you” to the community for everything it has done. Jared DuBosar, director for the Big Event, said, “The Big Event increased the awareness and outreach of the organization and event to help give back.” “It is a giant service project to really help out and say our thanks to the community for funding, having Florida State University and all the schools here, and for making this worth doing year after year,” DuBosar said. “We have several opportunities to go and volunteer, whether it be clean-up, volunteering at a nursing home, or assisting people with work in 142 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
their daily lives.” The Big Event drew 3,500 volunteers to its service project, the largest attendance yet. Some volunteers went to the Wolf Reserve. “We have volunteers going out to a nearby wolf shelter and are going to help out with the animals there, which is something we’ve never done before,” said DuBosar. Several speakers commended the volunteers for their impact on the Tallahassee community. The speakers included mayor Andrew Gillum, student body president-elect Jean Tabares, FSU president, John Thrasher, and TCC’s vice president for student affairs, Dr. Sally Search.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
Jared DuBosar Director
Lillian Sharpe Assistant Director
Jennifer Lucas Outreach
Riley Baldree Programming
Tomas Rodriguez Outreach
Taylor Selbach Operations
Brooke Bustle PR & Advertising
Not Pictured: Dominique Kelly (Programming), Ross Lee (Operations), Catalina Villafane (Recruitment), Gabrielle Carrera (Recruitment), and Jim Godin (PR & Advertising)
• Called on 3,500 volunteers to contribute to The Big Event. • Expanded volunteering opportunities for The Big Event, with nursing homes and various community clean-up in locations around Tallahassee, and now the Wolf Reserve. • Reached recognition as one of the largest service projects in the nation. • Provided students with opportunities to make a change in the community while building service hours.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION Students, faculty, and staff participated in this annual, one-day, student-run service project to show their appreciation to the community through yard work, window washing, and painting.
THE BIG EVENT 144 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
3/21
THE BIG EVENT
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SGA STAFF
Vicki Dobiyanski Director
Carolyn Harris Student Program Coordinator
Danielle Morgan Acosta Interim Director
Josh Kinchen Student Program Coordinator
Marvin Harris Assistant Director
Mattie Durham SGA Administration SenateProgramAssistant
Kim Dicks SGA Business Manager
Whitney Brown COGS Program Associate
Carolyn R Cox Executive Branch Program Assistant
Priscilla Jean-Louis Departmental Accounting Rep
Rosalind Sapp Departmental Accounting Rep
Ben A. Young Designer Web/Print
Tony Nguyen Media Specialist
Roberto Orozco Graduate Intern
Spencer Scruggs Graduate Intern
Ali Raza Graduate Intern
Morgan Matchett Graduate Intern
Not Pictured: Lane Washington (Graduate Intern)
STUDENT EMPLOYEES
Taylor Tachell OPS
Sabina Dieujuste OPS Not Pictured: Emily Brinkley (OPS)
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Timothy Icardi OPS
OVERALL ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2014
Advised student organizations in leadership development, programming, response to national and local issues, and development of student voices in campus campaigns, such as #kNOwMORE and #FSUStrong. The identity-based SGA Agencies hosted over 175 cultural, educational, and social events open to the entire campus community, highlighting the diversity of the student body and attended their first All Agency Advance to develop leadership skills and knowledge.
Hosted world-renowned speakers to students and the Tallahassee community through SGA entities and the Golden Tribe Lecture Series including Bill Nye the Science Guy, African-American author and television personality Dr. Melissa Harris-Perry, transgender activist Laverne Cox, the first Indian American woman selected as Miss America Nina Davuluri, and former Congressman and Presidential candidate, Ron Paul.
Expanded the campus-wide Seminole-Allies & Safe Zones training program, adding in-depth workshops on particular issues affecting our community and increasing trained and visible on-campus allies by 177% from 2013. Collaborated to create “Celebrating the Spectrum: A History of LGBTQ+ Progress and FSU’s Pride Student Union,” a historical narrative and resource and continued to work with departments to make strides in All Gender restrooms availability across campus.
Allocated activities and service funding of over $13,700,000 to the Oglesby Union, Campus Recreation, Student Activities and Organizations, and the Congress of Graduate Students. Encouraged fiscal responsibility, planning and stewardship through the expansion of the online budgeting process.
Increased Student Publications graphic-design projects by more than 140% from 2013, providing photography and artwork services to Recognized Student Organizations, SGA entities, and university-wide events. Implemented internship opportunities in writing, photography and video-production.
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STUDENT GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION
SEMINOLE ALLIES & SAFE ZONES FACILITATORS Alan Acosta
Miguel Hernandez
Danielle Morgan Acosta
Eddie Higginbotham
Vicki Dobiyanski
Josh Kinchen
Trinity Gonzalez
Antron Mahoney
Carolyn Harris
Kori Pruett
Estee Hernandez 148 | SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015
SEMINOLE ALLIES & SAFE ZONES
Seminole Allies & Safe Zones is a program that promotes acceptance and support of LGBTQ+ people. The program is open to all, regardless of orientation, identity or expression. Joshua Kinchen, student program coordinator for Seminole Allies, said, “Seminole Allies expanded the program through the addition of new facilitators and launching six different 200-level workshop sessions.” “They allow us to go deeper into particular issues related to the LGBTQ+ community.” Kinchen said. Seminole Allies also expanded the program to twelve facilitators. Additionally, the program was expanded through providing continuous education
and program communication through social media on Facebook and Twitter. Kinchen said they increased the number of trained and visible on-campus allies by 177% from 2013. Kinchen said, “This summer, we will be rolling out the Seminole Allies 301: Train the Facilitator workshop to formalize training for new facilitators, Seminole Allies collaborated with Student Publications and Pride Student Union to produce “Celebrating the Spectrum: A History of LGBTQ+ Progress and FSU’s Pride Student Union,” a historical narrative and resource.
• Expanded the program to include six 200-level workshops to better understand LGBTQ+ issues. • Trained and added five new facilitators. • Worked with Registrar’s Office and Human Resources to clarify policies related to students and employees who desired to change their name and gender in Student Central and OMNI. • Collaborated with Student Publications and Pride Student Union to produce “Celebrating the Spectrum: A History of LGBTQ+ Progress and FSU’s Pride Student Union.” SGA Today Annual 2014 - 2015 | 149
SGA Today was designed and printed by SGA Student Publications To learn more about how you can get recognized in SGA Today, please visit us in A302 Oglesby Union or contact SGA Today Editor Tony Nguyen at tmnguyen@fsu.edu