Student Government Association

Saathvika Bandi, Candidate for Health, Science & Technology Senator

CTHOM2 — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 21:57:03 +0000

Saathvika Bandi, Candidate for Health, Science & Technology Senator CTHOM2 Mon, 04/07/2025 - 16:57

Saathvika Bandi, Candidate for Health, Science & Technology Senator

As a Master’s student in Computer Science with a strong foundation in data science, artificial intelligence, and technology-driven research, I am dedicated to enhancing the intersection of health and technology at UIS. My experience in AI-driven biomedical research and real-time safety applications has fueled my passion for leveraging technology to improve student well-being. As your Health Science and Technology Senator, I will advocate for innovative health-tech initiatives, improved access to digital wellness resources, and interdisciplinary collaborations between health and technology fields. With leadership experience in student organizations and a commitment to student advocacy, I aim to create a more connected, informed, and health-conscious campus community. Together, we can drive impactful change at the intersection of healthcare and technology.

Deme Dees, Candidate for Campus Resident Senator

CTHOM2 — Wed, 02 Apr 2025 00:54:34 +0000

Deme Dees, Candidate for Campus Resident Senator CTHOM2 Tue, 04/01/2025 - 19:54

Deme Dees, Candidate for Campus Resident Senator

Vote for me as your Campus Resident Senator because I am deeply committed to representing and advocating for the needs of our campus residents. With a strong passion for fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, I will actively listen to your concerns and work towards tangible solutions that improve our living experience. My leadership, communication skills, and accountability will ensure that I effectively collaborate with students, faculty, and administration to bring about positive change. Whether it’s addressing housing issues, enhancing campus resources, or creating more opportunities for community engagement, I am dedicated to making our campus a better place for everyone. I am ready to put in the hard work necessary to be your voice, ensuring that our community’s needs are met and that all residents feel heard and valued. Together, we can make a meaningful difference!

Spring 2025 SGA Election

khobb2 — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 20:44:32 +0000

Spring 2025 SGA Election khobb2 Wed, 03/19/2025 - 15:44

Spring 25 SGA Results

Ballot order was determined using Random.org.

Student Representative to the Board of Trustees

Joe Humphrey - 61
Robert Demonte - 39
No Vote - 11

President

Jazel Ware-Grant - 315
No Vote - 132

Internal Vice President

Gloria Bajlozi - 201
Sujith Medari - 124
No Vote - 122

Treasurer

Gabby Przygocki - 313
No Vote - 134

Secretary

Caleb Grover - 307
No Vote - 140

Parliamentarian

John Kennedy - 180
Omolade Alabi - 150
No Vote - 117

Business & Management Senator

Victoria Ehiagwina - 186
Cassie Goudreau - 135
No Vote - 126

Health, Science & Technology Senator

Vidhathri Sarraf - 93
Pooja Sandhu - 75
Saathvika Bandi -61
Akhil Atchutha - 56
No Vote - 162

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Senator

No candidate

Public Affairs & Education Senator

Joseph Russo - 132
Alora Greene - 104
Malik Wells - 94
No Vote - 117

Peoria Campus Senator

No candidate

Undergraduate Student Senator

Colten Soto - 301
No Vote - 146

Graduate Student Senator

Enimien Esangbedo - 76
Mrudula Marella - 69
Anuoluwa Ake - 58
Akshith Kukkadapu - 51
Sai Pranitha Sree Goudu - 32
No Vote - 161

Campus Resident Senator

Deme Dees - 289
No Vote - 158

Online Student Senator

Shrushti Gosai - 134
Joshua Beauchamp - 85
Michael Jubiter - 51
No Vote - 177

Senator-at-Large

Minnah Saleh - 179
Fiel Wilson - 115
No Vote - 153

SGA Constitutional Changes Referendum

Quorum for Meetings

I approve this constitutional change - 337
I do not approve this constitutional change - 91
No Vote - 19

Number of Voting Members on SGA

I approve this constitutional change - 322
I do not approve this constitutional change - 90
No Vote - 35

The Spring 25 SGA Election was held over UIS Connection on Wednesday, April 9 & Thursday, April 10

Lighting of the Colonnade

eewest2 — Fri, 08 Nov 2024 17:17:45 +0000

Lighting of the Colonnade eewest2 Fri, 11/08/2024 - 11:17

The 10th annual lighting of the Colonnade will happen at 5:30 p.m. on Nov. 15. Cookies and cocoa will be served at 5:15 p.m., followed by the lighting of the Colonnade by the Chancellor and SGA president.

If you can't attend in person, watch via Zoom.

When

Fri, Nov 15 2024, 5:15 - 6:15pm

Location

Collonade

Event Type

Campus

Employee

Faculty

Student

UIS Connection

Department

Orbit

Student Affairs

Student Government Association

Student Life

UIS Connection

Spring 2024 SGA Election

khobb2 — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 20:51:50 +0000

Spring 2024 SGA Election khobb2 Mon, 03/18/2024 - 15:51

Spring 24 SGA Candidates

Ballot order was determined using Random.org.

Student Representative to the Board of Trustees

Chris Johnson - 256
Melody Colonel - 181
No Vote - 157

President

Emmanuelle Yakana - 150
Emma West - 64
Toluwalope Omolusi - 36
No Vote - 5

Internal Vice President

Sri Charan - 277
Andrew Sims - 177
No Vote - 140

Treasurer

Samuel Moore - 224
Jagadish Bachina - 220
No Vote - 150

Secretary

Bhavana Neelam - 272
Caleb Grover - 181
No Vote - 141

Parliamentarian

Chris Combs - 392
No Vote - 202

Business & Management Senator

Ganesh Chandrashekar Bhat - 178
Indraja Beesetty - 141
Souvik Das - 87
No Vote - 188

Health, Science & Technology Senator

Aparna Nadhirigari - 176
Guru Ruthvik Boggavarapu - 104
Hemanshu Sagpariya - 98
No Vote - 216

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences Senator

Karac Henderson - 347
No Vote - 247

Public Affairs & Education Senator

JJ Joseph - 200
Aimee Nguyen 188
No Vote - 206

Graduate Student Senator

Abhishek Devdan Bhore - 169
Kameshwar Dhulipala - 128
Tejashri Dendi - 117
No Vote - 180

Undergraduate Student Senator

Cassie Goudreau - 384
No Vote - 210

Campus Resident Senator

John Kennedy - 361
No Vote - 233

Online Student Senator

Alexander Gerlach - 206
Zainab - 122
No Vote - 266

Peoria Campus Senator

Priyanka Avisa - 362
No Vote - 232

Senator-at-Large

Sarah Mahler - 347
No Vote - 247

The Spring 24 SGA Election was held over UIS Connection on Wednesday, April 10th through Thursday, April 11th.

SGA Awards

CTHOM2 — Wed, 19 Apr 2023 18:20:46 +0000

SGA Awards CTHOM2 Wed, 04/19/2023 - 13:20

SGA Awards

Award Guidelines

Recipients of the Donovan Pepper Award, the Outstanding SGA Senator Award and the Outstanding SGA Committeeperson Award must be enrolled as UIS undergraduate or graduate students and must have served on SGA or one of its standing committees during the 2022-2023 academic year.
The recipient of the Community Ally award may be a UIS student, faculty or staff member or a member of the Springfield community.
The recipient of the Outstanding Faculty/Academic Professional/Civil Service award must be a member of one of those UIS categories.
Awarded to an undergraduate or graduate student currently serving on SGA or one of its standing committees
All student recipients must be in good academic and conduct standing.

Donovan Pepper Award

The Student Government Association created the Donovan Pepper Award to pay tribute to a former SGA President who was instrumental in the transition of Sangamon State University to UIS. In keeping with his legacy, this award honors those students who have made an exceptional contribution to the Student Government Association. This award is open to all students who have served in some capacity within SGA during the current academic year. The award recipient shall be determined by a group of administrators intimately involved with the SGA, including the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement, the Dean of Students, and the Director of Student Life.

The following criteria will be used to evaluate the nominee in determining the award winner:

Criteria	Description
Leadership	Demonstrates leadership through formal/informal role on campus by motivating, persuading & developing common purpose among others that promotes change while also engaging in skill development to improve themselves & their peers
Advocacy	Creates a positive impact on campus through the development of programs and/or by advocating for students/student issues
Campus Engagement	Takes the initiative to support and participate in the educational, cultural and social development of the campus community

Outstanding Senator Award

Awarded for significant contribution to the SGA. This award is open all students who have served as senators on the Student Government Association during the current academic year. The recipient of this award will be determined by the SGA Executive Board.

The following criteria will be used to evaluate the nominee in determining the award winner:

Criteria	Description
Integrity	Practices honesty and consistency through their action and demonstrates an alignment with the Division of Student Affairs values.
Campus Engagement	Takes the initiative to participate and support the educational, cultural and social development of the campus community through programs and activities to enhance the quality of the student experience.
Leadership	Demonstrates leadership through formal or informal role on campus by motivating, persuading, and developing common purpose among others that promotes change while also engaging in skill development to improve oneself and their peers.

Outstanding Committeeperson Award

Awarded to an individual who has shown an outstanding commitment to the SGA through service on an SGA, campus, or university committee. The recipient of this award will be determined by the SGA Executive Board.

The following criteria will be used to evaluation the nominee in determining the award winner:

Criteria	Description
Integrity	Practices honesty and consistency through their action and demonstrates an alignment with the Division of Student Affairs values. Demonstrates commitment to SGA through service on SGA campus or university committees
Campus Engagement	Takes the initiative to participate and support the educational, cultural and social development of the campus community through programs and activities throughout the division in an effort to enhance the quality of the student experience.
Leadership	Demonstrates leadership through formal or informal role on campus by motivating, persuading, and developing common purpose among others that promotes change while also engaging in skill development to improve oneself and their peers.

Community Ally Award

Awarded to a member of the UIS or Greater Springfield community who has shown commitment to serving students by empowering them to advocate for themselves, giving students a voice in the community, or providing aid to an individual student or to groups. Recipients must be nominated by a student and must have demonstrated commitment to serving the students of UIS (student nominations should include at least one example).

The following criteria will be used to evaluate the nominee in determining the award winner:

criteria	description
Leadership	Demonstrates leadership through formal or informal role on campus by motivating, persuading, and developing common purpose among others that promotes change.
Empowerment	Ability to use available skills and resources to empower students to advocate for themselves and to give them voice in the UIS or Greater Springfield community.
Commitment	Dedication and quality/quantity of assistance provided to UIS students and/or student groups

Outstanding Faculty/Academic Professional/Civil Service Award

Awarded to an outstanding faculty/academic professional/civil service member who has demonstrated leadership and has supported the UIS student body by dedicating time and contributing their talents to assist with Student Government, student organizations, and other student-led initiatives.

The following criteria will be used to evaluate the nominee in determining the award winner:

Criteria	Description
Leadership	Demonstrates leadership through formal or informal role on campus by motivating, persuading, and developing common purpose among others that promotes change.
Empowerment	Ability to use available skills and resources to empower students to advocate for themselves an to give them voice on campus.
Commitment	Dedication and quality/quantity of assistance provided to UIS students and/or student groups

SGA Bylaws

khobb2 — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 13:50:30 +0000

SGA Bylaws khobb2 Tue, 04/04/2023 - 08:50

SGA Bylaws

Article I: Constitution

Section 1.

Those duties and powers assigned to the SGA and its officers in the Constitution are considered as implied under these bylaws.

Section 2.

When judging any discrepancies between the Constitution and the Bylaws, the Constitution shall be considered authoritative over these Bylaws.

Section 3.

For the purpose of resolution of any conflicts between the Constitution and Bylaws, the Bylaws shall be utilized to interpret language contained within the Constitution.

Section 4.

In the event that the Constitution is amended, the Parliamentarian shall, at the next scheduled meeting of the Student Government Association, provide an interpretation of the Constitutional Amendment and an opinion to the Student Government Association as to whether the Constitutional Amendment necessitates the amendment of the Bylaws.

Section 5.

In the event that the Parliamentarian determines such an amendment should be made, the Parliamentarian shall propose such an amendment to the Bylaws, in accordance with the procedure established herein for the amendment of same.

Article II: Duties of Office

Section 1. President

Clause A.

As the Chief Executive Officer of the SGA, the President will be responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of the SGA.

Clause B.

The President will email a complete agenda to the SGA at-large no later than twenty-four (24) hours before a regularly scheduled meeting.

Clause C.

The President can delegate duties to members as he/she sees fit, provided the duty does not conflict with any provision in the Constitution or Bylaws.

Clause D.

The President shall maintain, throughout the course of the academic year, an electronic archive of documents pertaining to the administration of the SGA. At the end of the President’s term, this archive will be given to the new incoming SGA President.

Clause E.

The President shall be responsible for ensuring that all UIS students are able to speak at the SGA meetings.

Clause F.

Whenever a resolution passes, the President will sign the resolution signifying that the resolution has passed with the majority needed.

Clause G.

The President will serve as, or nominate, a representative to the Illinois Board of Higher Education Student Advisory Council.

Clause H.

The President, in consultation with the Student Government Association advisor, may hire a Staff Position for a Web and Social Media Manager for the Student Government Association. This position will be hired through the Office of Student Life. At the first meeting of each academic year, the President shall request the funds necessary for the hiring of this position from the Student Government Association.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

If the Web and Social Media Manager is not meeting the necessary requirements the President, with 2/3 majority vote approval from the executive board and in consultation with the Student Government Advisor, shall reserve the right to terminate the current worker and seek a replacement for the position.

Clause I.

The President will serve on campus senate and will nominate SGA members to Campus Senate before the third Senate meeting of the academic year.

Section 2. Internal Vice-President

Clause A.

If the Internal Vice-President, acting on behalf of the President, calls a special meeting of the SGA, he/she will inform the members of SGA within twenty-four (24) hours of a meeting place and time. The items to be discussed at the special meeting will have been determined by the President before the meeting.

Clause B.

The Internal Vice-President will submit a Committee Report given to SGA at-large at least two (2) regularly scheduled meetings before the end of the academic year.

Clause C.

The Internal Vice-President will manage senators to Campus Senate and SGA committees with consideration for senator’s preferences, experience, and scheduling before the third Senate meeting of the academic year.

Clause D.

On behalf of the Student Government Association, the Internal Vice-President shall organize public forums twice per semester. These forums must be open to all students and be held in a public location on campus. The Internal Vice-President shall ensure that all members of the Student Government Association attend at least one forum per semester.

Section 3. External Vice-President

Clause A.

The External Vice-President shall possess a non-binding advisory vote.

Clause B.

In the absence of the Internal Vice-President, the External Vice-President, acting on behalf of the President, can call a special meeting of the SGA in accordance with the above stated regulations (Article II, Section 2, Clause A).

Section 4. Treasurer

Clause A.

Upon the request of any member of SGA, the Treasurer will provide a report of the SGA’s current finances to the SGA at-large at its next meeting. This report will be placed in an online report prior to it being presented to the SGA at-large.

Clause B.

The Treasurer will submit to the President a total list of income and payments made by the SGA over the course of the course of the academic year. The President will then place this report in the electronic archive.

Clause C.

Any resolution regarding budgetary or monetary issues of the SGA will be signed by the Treasurer, upon adoption by the SGA at-large.

Section 5. Secretary

Clause A.

The Secretary must complete the minutes of a given meeting within three (3) weeks after the meeting took place. After the minutes are approved, they will be placed on the SGA website as soon as possible.

Clause B.

The Secretary, throughout the course of the academic year, will compile an electronic archive of the SGA’s minutes, agendas and correspondences. At the end of the Secretary’s term, this archive will be given to the new incoming Secretary.

Clause C.

All correspondence to the Executive Committee or the SGA at-large will be distributed within twenty-four (24) hours of its receipt by the Secretary.

Clause D.

When a resolution passes, the Secretary will sign the resolution signifying that the resolution has been entered into the archives.

Section 6. Parliamentarian

Clause A.

The Parliamentarian shall have a non-binding, advisory vote on the SGA at-large.

Clause B.

The Parliamentarian shall serve as the Chair of the Constitution and Rules Committee, where he/she will possess a binding vote.

Clause C.

The Parliamentarian shall act as the chief interpreter of the Constitution and Bylaws, subject to a 2/3 veto of the SGA at-large.

Clause D.

As the keeper of the SGA Constitution and Bylaws, the Parliamentarian shall be responsible for enforcing the Constitution, Bylaws, Resolutions, and Executive Orders.

Clause E.

The Parliamentarian shall serve as an ex-officio, non-voting member to all committees for the sole purpose to advise the members on Parliamentary Procedure, the SGA Constitution, and SGA Bylaws.

Clause F.

The Parliamentarian may review committee bylaws to ensure that they are in compliance with the SGA Constitution.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

If a committee’s bylaws are not in compliance with the SGA Constitution, the Parliamentarian will make recommendations to the committee to correct the discrepancy.

Section 7. Student Trustee to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees

Clause A.

The Student Trustee to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees (hereafter referred to as “Trustee”) shall report to the SGA during its meetings on the work of the Board of Trustees.

Clause B.

Those duties not stated in the SGA Constitution or Bylaws pertaining to the Trustee shall be governed by University policies and the University of Illinois Trustees Act. 110 ILCS 310, et. seq.

Section 8. Senators

Clause A.

While Senators are elected to represent a specific constituency of the UIS community, a Senator may voice a concern from a student outside of his or her respective constituency.

Section 9. Web and Social Media Manager

Clause A.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall provide website maintenance and social media services to the Student Government Association.

Clause B.

This Web and Social Media Manager shall attend necessary training in order to become a publisher for the Student Government Association Website.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall maintain the SGA website through weekly updates of SGA announcements, minutes, agendas, resolutions, initiatives, and other relevant content.

Clause C.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall maintain social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, among others for the Student Government Association as well as the Student Organization Funding Association.

Clause D.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall meet regularly with the Chairs of the Student Organization Funding Association (SOFA) and the Student Activities Committee (SAC).

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall maintain the SOFA and SAC webpages and their corresponding forms, bylaws, meeting information, and other relevant information.

Clause E.

The Web and Social Media Manager shall report jointly to the Student Government Association President or designee, as well as the Student Government Advisor.

Section 10. Training

Clause 1.

All SGA members are required to attend NCBI and SOFA Training

Subclause 1.

The President and Treasurer should work together at the start of their terms to schedule and ensure completion of training.

Clause 2.

All SGA members are required to have read the SGA Constitution and SGA Bylaws prior to the second meeting as a serving member.

Article III: Standing Committees

Section 1. Executive Committee

Clause A.

The Executive Committee is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the SGA. Should an issue require the immediate attention of the SGA, the Executive Committee shall assemble to act on behalf of the SGA as a whole.

Clause B.

The members of the Executive Committee will be the SGA President, Internal Vice-President, External Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary, Parliamentarian, and Trustee.

Section 2. Student Activities Committee

Clause A.

The Student Activities Committee (SAC) shall work to provide various programs and events to the student body as well as encourage student involvement at UIS.

Clause B.

SAC shall have 1 standing sub-committee:

SUB-CLAUSE 1:

Springfest Committee

Clause C.

The Chair of SAC will choose the membership of the Committee.

Clause D.

The Student Activities Committee may create bylaws that are consistent with the SGA Constitution and Bylaws.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

SAC Executive Board members will be ineligible to run for a SGA Executive Board position.

Clause E.

The Chair of SAC is required to report in person or in writing to SGA bi-monthly regarding the allocations, operations, and upcoming programming of the Student Activities Committee.

Section 3. Student Organization Funding Association

Clause A.

The Student Organization Funding Association (SOFA) is responsible for granting funds to all UIS student organizations and clubs, provided the request entered by the organization is valid and is consistent with SOFA rules. The money allocated to each club will be used to improve student life at UIS.

Clause B.

The Chair of SOFA will choose the membership of the Committee.

Clause C.

SOFA may create bylaws that are consistent with the SGA Constitution and Bylaws.

Clause D.

The Chair of SOFA is required to report in person or in writing to SGA bi-monthly regarding the allocations and operations of the Student Organization Funding Association.

Section 4. Student Government Association Rules and Constitution Committee

Clause A.

The SGA Rules and Constitution Committee will, if needed, review and revise proposed changes to the Constitution, Bylaws, and Rules and bring those recommendations to the SGA at-large.

Clause B.

The SGA Rules and Constitution Committee will hear any and all disciplinary allegations from any member of the SGA or student body. See Article IX of these Bylaws for disciplinary procedures pertaining to the Constitution and Rules Committee.

Clause C.

The Parliamentarian will serve as the Chair of the SGA Rules and Constitution Committee.

Clause D.

This committee shall meet at least once throughout the semester.

Clause E.

The Rules and Constitution shall consist of a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 9 members and a chairperson. Members shall be made up of at least one SGA member, one SAC member, one SOFA member, one member not in any Student Government organization. No person may fill more than one of these requirements.

Section 5. Elections Committee

Clause A.

The Elections Committee shall be charged with the administration and fair execution of the SGA elections.

Clause B.

No member of SGA shall serve on the committee.

Clause C.

See Article VII of these Bylaws for further rules.

Section 6. External Relations and Marketing Committee

Clause A.

The Committee on External Relations and Marketing shall be responsible for obtaining information about outside relations and activities as it pertains to UIS and the campus community; this may include, but is not limited to, faculty, staff, the UI Alumni Association, businesses, non-profit organizations and agencies, and Sangamon County area. The committee will also be responsible for maintaining contact with local, county, state, and federal officials on issues pertaining to higher education.

Clause B.

The External Vice-President shall chair the Committee on External Affairs.

Clause C.

Membership will consist of the chair, the Student Representative to the Board of Trustees in addition to three to five other SGA members.

Clause D.

The External Committee shall be responsible for serving as an outreach committee for the Student Government Association. This committee shall work to maintain the visibility of the Student Government Association through the entirely of the academic year. This committee will also incorporate the overall vision and message of the current Student Government Association in its practices to serve as an outreach committee of the Student Government Association. This committee will create and maintain current Student Government Association initiatives aimed at upholding a strong sense of connection with the UIS campus.

Section 7. Student Affairs Committee

Clause A.

The Internal Affairs Committee shall be responsible for obtaining information about inside relations and activities as it pertains to UIS and the campus community. This may include that the committee will work closely with, but is not limited to, faculty, staff, department administration, Division of Student Affairs, Academic and Administrative Affairs, Facility Services, and Campus Police. The committee will conduct discussion and make recommendations on behalf of the student body in affairs of parking, building maintenance, construction, and other necessary units, to ensure the efficient and effective daily operations of the University of Illinois Springfield.

Clause B.

The Internal Vice President shall chair the committee on Internal Affairs.

Clause C.

Membership will consist of the chair in addition to three to five other SGA members.

Clause D.

The Internal Affairs Committee shall meet at least once per semester.

Article IV: Appointments

Section 1.

Clause A.

The SGA President will notify the student body that the SGA is seeking applications for a position.

Clause B.

All applications must include a current resume and a cover letter. Applications that do not include a resume and cover letter will not be considered.

Section 2.

Clause A.

Two (2) weeks after the notification to the student body, the President will consider the applications and nominate a candidate to SGA at large.

Sub clause 1

The nomination must include the candidate’s resume and cover letter and a justification for their appointment.

Sub clause 2

The nominated candidate must attend the SGA large meeting for their confirmation.

Section 3.

Clause A.

Should the SGA at large find it necessary, applicants may be called in to take questions from the members of the SGA at large.

Subclause 1.

Deliberations will take place in closed session, but candidates and audience members must be afforded an opportunity to speak with all due process.

Section 4.

Clause A.

The SGA at large will not consider the candidate race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or political ideology during deliberations.

Section 5.

Clause A.

Once the nomination has been considered, the SGA at large will vote for the confirmation of the candidate requiring a simple majority.

Section 6.

Clause A.

If a simple majority cannot be reached, then a new nomination may be submitted.

Article V: Appeals From the Student Organization Funding Association

Section 1.

After exhausting all appeals with SOFA, a student organization may submit an appeal to the Office of Student Life within ten (10) business days.

Section 2.

The Director of Student Life shall then forward the written appeal to all members of the Executive Committee, who will meet to discuss the merits of the appeal.

Section 3.

If a majority of the Executive Committee finds that the request by the student organization warrants further discussion, the Executive Committee shall put the appeal to the SGA at-large at the next scheduled meeting. If the Executive Committee does not reach a majority, then the appeal fails and the last ruling of SOFA stands.

Section 4.

When the SGA at-large considers the appeal at its next meeting, a representative from the appealing organization shall be present to explain why the organization should be granted the funding request.

Clause A.

If the representative is not able to be present at the meeting, the organization may submit a written explanation to the SGA Secretary, who will distribute the explanation to the SGA at-large.

Section 5.

A representative from SOFA shall also be present at the scheduled meeting to explain why the funding request was denied.

Clause A.

If the representative from SOFA is not able to be present at the meeting, SOFA may submit a written explanation to the SGA Secretary, who will distribute the explanation to the SGA at-large.

Section 6.

The SGA may then adjourn into closed session for the purpose of discussing the appeal. The decision will be made in open session by a roll call vote.

Section 7.

If a majority of the SGA finds that SOFA erred in not granting the funding request, the SGA may order that SOFA fully or partially grant the funding request.

Section 8.

If a majority is not reached, then the last ruling of SOFA stands and the disputed funds are not disbursed.

Article VI: Meetings and Events

Section 1.

All resolutions shall be sent to the SGA President no later than noon on Friday before the meeting in which the resolution will be presented in order for it to be placed on the agenda.

Section 2.

All budgetary and other monetary proposals require a roll call vote.

Section 3.

Each member is responsible for attending the SGA televised meetings and committee meetings as assigned.

Section 4.

SGA members shall be dressed in business casual or professional attire during televised meetings.

Section 5.

Abstention votes do not count towards the yeas or nays in voting in any situation. Should a majority of the voting quorum abstain from voting, the resolution shall be tabled until the next meeting when it will be placed on the agenda.

Article VII: Stipends for SGA Members

Section 1.

Funds for stipends to SGA members will be paid from the amount allocated to the SGA from the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs budget.

Section 2.

The President, Internal Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary & BOT positions will be eligible for stipends.

Section 3.

The President's stipend will be in the amount of $500 while the Internal Vice-President, Treasurer, and Secretary stipends will be in the amount of $250.

Section 4.

The External Vice-President is not eligible to receive a stipend.

Section 5.

Senators are not eligible to receive stipends.

Section 6.

All officers receiving stipends will be paid at the end of the year, which are subject to removal from office as outlined in Article IX.

Section 7.

A request for a stipend must be submitted to the President or Treasurer by the first week of the spring semester. Applications will not be accepted after the end of this week.

Section 8.

Any change in stipends will not take effect until the beginning of the next academic year after approval from the SGA.

Section 11.

Any unused stipends shall be absorbed back into the SGA's budget.

Article VIII: Elections

Section 1. Introduction

Clause A.

Student Elections are an integral part of the Student Governance process. Candidates are reminded that the manner in which they conduct and represent themselves and others reflects upon both themselves as individuals, as well as the organization as a whole. As such, candidates must ensure that their conduct, materials and statements are truthful and of the highest ethical standards as befits students at an institution of higher education.

Clause B.

Candidates are further reminded that the ultimate goal of the election and campaign process is to be seated on the Student Government Association as a representative of students at the University. All aspects of your conduct throughout the campaign and election process should seek to enhance the reputation of students and the Association.

Section 2. Campaign Regulations

Clause A.

Candidates are responsible for knowing and complying with all campaign regulations.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

Including both personal and in-kind expenditures, no more than $200.00 (Two hundred dollars) shall be directed towards a campaign. Candidates must maintain complete records of materials used, all expenditures, and in-kind contributions in a manner which the election committee can readily understand. Candidates must produce such records upon request of the election committee. (If materials are used which represent more than one candidate, each candidate represented will be considered responsible for an equal share of the cost to produce the material.)

SUB-CLAUSE 2.

Campaign materials may not be posted until the campaign period officially begins. If any campaign materials appear prior to that time, the Elections Committee reserves the right to penalize the candidate, which may include the disqualification of the candidate.

SUB-CLAUSE 3.

Campaigning may continue throughout the election period. However, campaigning is not allowed in the Student Center or in the computer labs.

SUB-CLAUSE 4.

There can be no campaigning in the vicinity of any official election station. This includes campaigning by yourself or others, posters, flyers or any sort of materials. Materials posted in these areas during the campaign week will be removed by Student Life Staff prior to the start of balloting. Candidates are advised not to linger in the vicinity of the polling area due to the vulnerability of being perceived as campaigning. Please don’t put yourself at risk by testing such requirements.

SUB-CLAUSE 5.

Candidates may not move, remove, cover, or in any way alter materials displayed by other candidates. If improper or unapproved material is observed, the item(s) and their location should be reported to the Director of Student Life.

SUB-CLAUSE 6.

All campaign materials must be removed by the designated date following the election. Failure to do so may result in sanctions against the candidate.

SUB-CLAUSE 7.

All candidates must abide by the regulations set forth by the University policies, regulations, and procedures at all times.

SUB-CLAUSE 8.

All students campaigning on behalf of a candidate must follow the campaign rules set forth here. Any violation by any volunteer will be viewed as a violation by the candidate, which may call for disqualification of their candidacy.

Section 3. Approval of Campaign Materials

Clause A.

Materials may be reviewed by the Director of Student Life for compliance with the campaign regulations. Materials which appear questionable or unacceptable will be referred to the Election Committee for review.

Section 4. Elections Committee

Clause A. Committee Description and Responsibility

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

The Elections Committee shall consist of 5 members and a chairperson. The chairperson shall be the Director of Student Life, or his/her designee. The additional members shall consist of 3 students and 2 staff members. The chair shall only vote in case of a tie.

SUB-CLAUSE 2.

The Elections Committee will have the authority to review and hear complaints and to make decisions based on these complaints.

SUB-CLAUSE 3.

A quorum of the election committee is required when meeting to resolve formal complaints. A quorum is defined as a minimum of three members of the election committee, at least one of whom must be a student.

SUB-CLAUSE 4.

Elections Committee will not seek out infractions – they will only respond to complaints submitted.

SUB-CLAUSE 5.

The Elections Committee will convene only if a written complaint is submitted, or if required to provide clarifications of election policies - otherwise no meetings will be scheduled.

Clause B. Complaint Process

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

Any student wishing to file a complaint regarding the election or the campaign process shall have the opportunity to do so through an established process.

SUB-CLAUSE 2.

Any complaint must be identified as a formal complaint, signed by the complainant, and submitted in writing to the Director of Student Life.

SUB-CLAUSE 3.

Verbal and informal electronic communications are considered informational and advisory and will not be considered a complaint. The Director of Student Life and/or the election committee will respond to such correspondence as a basis for issuing clarifications or other directives to any or all candidates.

SUB-CLAUSE 4.

Formal complaints will be forwarded to the Elections Committee who will review all complaints and determine an appropriate action.

SUB-CLAUSE 5.

All complaints must be submitted within the time allowed for the receipt of complaints. Complaints received after that time will not be accepted unless the Election Committee determines there is a strong case to do so.

SUB-CLAUSE 6.

Unless otherwise stated by the Elections Committee, the following deadlines for the receipt of complaints shall apply:

Complaints challenging the eligibility of a candidate to seek election shall be filed no less than 2 business days prior to the beginning of formal balloting.
All other complaints shall be submitted within one business day of the time at which the incident prompting the complaint became known to the complainant.
The final deadline for the filing of complaints will be Noon of the next business day following the completion of the voting process.

Article IX: Disciplinary Actions Against Members

Section 1.

Any member of the SGA may be disciplined for the following reasons:

Clause A.

Gross negligence of duty;

Clause B.

Substantial violation of the SGA Constitution or legal responsibilities;

Clause C.

Violation of academic integrity or the Student Disciplinary Code; or,

Clause D.

Missing three (3) regularly scheduled televised SGA meetings.

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

If a member misses two (2) meetings, the SGA President will inform the member and place the member on probation.

Section 2.

The student or SGA member will state one or more of the above reasons in a signed and written complaint to the Director of Student Life.

Clause A.

If the complaint is submitted against any officer other than the Parliamentarian, then the Director of Student Life will forward the complaint to the Parliamentarian.

Clause B.

If the complaint is submitted against the Parliamentarian, then the complaint will be forwarded to the President, who will become acting Chair of the Constitution and Rules Committee for the purpose of ruling on the complaint.

Section 3.

The Constitution and Rules Committee will meet within five (5) business days to hear the complaint. Both the complainant and the accused member may be present at this meeting to present evidence and make statements.

Section 4.

Should the Committee find with a 2/3 majority that the complaint warrants further action, the complaint will be forwarded to the SGA with a recommended disciplinary action.

Section 5.

The complaint will be brought to the SGA at-large at its next scheduled meeting. Both the complainant and respondent will be present at the meeting. Both sides are allowed to make a five (5) minute statement. The complaint brought forward must be held in closed session.

Section 6.

After both sides have presented their case, the SGA will discuss and vote on if the respondent is guilty of the complaint and what disciplinary action to take. The following actions may be taken:

Clause A.

Censure

SUB-CLAUSE 1.

If a member is censured, a resolution will be passed to record the censure and be placed in the SGA’s archives.

Clause B.

If the complaint relates to attendance of meetings, the member’s probation may be extended.

Clause C.

Removal from SGA

Section 7.

The SGA may convene into executive session for the purpose of making a decision on the charges and on any actions to be taken against the member. A 2/3 majority is needed in order to find guilty. If the SGA votes to find the member guilty, a simple majority is needed to approve actions of censure and extension of probation. A 2/3 majority is needed in order to remove the member.

Section 8.

If the SGA does not reach the 2/3 majority needed to find the member guilty, no action will be taken against the member.

Section 9.

During all proceedings, the member will be allowed due process.

Article X: Selection of Student Representatives to Search Committees

Section 1.

In the event that the University Administration announces the formation of a Search Committee that requires student representation, the SGA President will notify the student body that the SGA is seeking applications for the position.

Clause A.

All applications must include a current resume and a cover letter. Applications that do not include a resume or cover letter will not be considered.

Section 2.

Two (2) weeks after the notification to the student body, the Executive Committee will convene into a closed session to consider the applications.

Section 3.

Should the Executive Committee find it necessary, applicants may be called in to take questions from the members of the committee.

Section 4.

The Executive Committee will not consider the applicant’s race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or political ideology during deliberations.

Section 5.

Once all applications have been considered, the Executive Committee will submit recommendations to the University Administration for final approval.

Article XI: Amending the Bylaws

Section 1.

Any member of the SGA may submit a proposal to amend or change these Bylaws.

Section 2.

Any proposal to change these Bylaws will be submitted to the SGA President, Secretary, and Parliamentarian at noon on the Friday before the next scheduled SGA meeting.

Section 3.

The Parliamentarian, prior to passage of any amendment to the Bylaws, may provide a written opinion to the Student Government Association detailing the effect that any proposed amendment would have on the Bylaws.

Section 4.

In the opinion letter, the Parliamentarian shall provide a recommendation to the Student Government Association as to whether the proposed amendment should be approved by the Student Government Association as a whole.

Section 5.

The Student Government shall reserve the authority to approve the amendment to the Bylaws without an opinion letter from the Parliamentarian.

Section 6.

A simple majority is required to amend or change the Bylaws. This vote shall be taken during the SGA regularly scheduled televised meetings.

Section 7.

Upon approval of any amendments to the Bylaws, the Parliamentarian shall be responsible for updating the Bylaws to reflect the amendments made by the Student Government Association.

Article XIII: Parliamentary Procedure

Section 1.

Except as otherwise provided for herein, all meetings and procedures undertaken by the Student Government Association shall be conducted in accordance with the most recent edition of Robert’s Rules of Order.

Resolutions

cogbo2 — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 02:06:37 +0000

Resolutions cogbo2 Fri, 02/11/2022 - 20:06

2022-2023 Approved Resolutions

2021 - 2022 Approved Resolutions

2021-2022 Approved Resolutions

2020 - 2021 Approved Resolutions

2020-2021 Approved Resolutions

2019 - 2020 Approved Resolutions

2019-2020 Approved Resolutions

2018-2019 Approved Resolutions

2017 - 2018 Resolutions

2017-2018 Approved Resolutions

Meeting Archive

cogbo2 — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 21:45:49 +0000

Meeting Archive cogbo2 Wed, 02/09/2022 - 15:45

2021 - 2022

2021-2022 SGA Meeting Agendas & Minutes (Box)

2020 - 2021

2020-2021 SGA Meeting Agendas & Minutes (Box)

2019-2020

2019-2020 SGA Meeting Agendas & Minutes (Box)

2018-2019

2018-2019 SGA Meeting Agendas & Minutes (Box)

Senators

cogbo2 — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 21:24:01 +0000

Senators cogbo2 Wed, 02/09/2022 - 15:24

Senators

Dominick Vessini
Campus Resident Senator

Committees: Member of Campus Senate, Member of Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Search Committee

Responsibilities: Representing concerns of students living in campus housing

Contact: dvess2@uis.edu

Major: Political Science

Year: Sophomore

Committees: TBA

Responsibilities: Represent students in the College of Business & Management

Contact: salam28@uis.edu

Major: Management Information Systems

Year: Graduate student

Alamur Sucharitha
College of Business and
Management Senator

Katie Kennedy
College of Education and
Human Services Senator

Committees: Member of the Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Search Committee

Responsibilities: Represent students in the College of Health, Science & Technology

Contact: ckenn9@uis.edu

Major: Biology, Pre-Med focus, Chemistry minor

Year: Sophomore

Committees: TBA

Responsibilities: Representing students in the College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences

Contact: siver2@uis.edu

Major: Communication

Year: Junior

Samy Iverson
College of Liberal Arts
and Sciences Senator

Nate Quivey
College of Public Affairs
and Education Senator

Committees: Member of Campus Senate, Member of Committee on Student Discipline

Responsibilities: Representing students in the College of Public Affairs & Education

Contact: nquiv2@uis.edu

Major: Political Science

Year: Senior

Committees: TBA

Responsibilities: Representing freshman students

Contact: amoha75@uis.edu

Major: Computer Science

Year: Freshman

Ayesha Mohanty
Freshmen Student Senator

Daniel Ihenacho
Graduate Student Senator

Committees: Member of the Illinois Board of Higher Education Student Advisory Committee, Member of Graduate Council. Member of the Transportation Task Force

Responsibilities: Representing graduate students

Contact: dihen2@uis.edu

Major: Management Information Systems

Year: Graduate student

Committees: Member of the Transportation Task Force

Responsibilities: Representing international students

Contact: oogun5@uis.edu

Major: Management Information Systems

Year: Graduate Student

Oluwakemi Ogunbameru
International Student Senator

Ivette (Eva) Aguirre-Beck
Online Student Senator

Committees: TBA