Task force discussion leads first fall SGA meeting

The Student Government Association (SGA) held its first meeting Sept. 8 at 6:01 p.m. to discuss new business pertaining to various A&M-Commerce policies.

President Taylor Fore opened the meeting by giving his officer report and spoke about his work with the chancellor of the Texas A&M system. Three of the main points he touched on were the textbook initiative, the teacher excellence award and military assistance.

He also elaborated on the task force organized in June, which he is a part of. The task force is involved in the discussion on whether the College of Arts and Sciences needs to be split and is designed to let students provide input to the faculty on the matter. Fore said he is also working with students and Vice President of Business and Administration Bob Brown to implement various improvements at the university.

Vice President of Senate Affairs Marcus Graham talked about committee changes in SGA, including Academic Affairs being cut from the committees.

Vice President and Senate Chair Lauren Booe talked about the importance of the senators for the students.

"Senators for the university are the voice for the students," she said. "If you hear a concern, bring it up."

Several students, such as history major Robert Cox, attended the meeting and gave input on their involvement with SGA.

"I'm here to make sure that you are spending my money well," he said.

Once non-members of SGA finished speaking, Fore opened up the floor for new business.

First on the agenda was the nomination for Dean of Students Brian Nichols as SGA adviser. During the discussion, questions arose as to whether there were other options for the role.

"He is a very good adviser and has helped me out a lot," Fore said.

Once discussion ended, the vote was called and the resolution to make Nichols SGA adviser passed with 14 yes's and 0 no's.

Following the Nichols resolution, discussion was made about changing the time of the meetings, but no decision was made.

Senator Donna Gosbee talked about how SGA needed to do a better job being more visible and assessable to students on campus, and suggested a committee be made to reach out to organizations across campus.

"Maybe we should have a table with info about SGA," she said.

The meeting concluded with announcements from Senator Rachel Evans about the Bois d' Arc Bash. She said they are adding a college night, which will be held Thursday Sept. 23. It will be free to set up a booth the first night and all proceeds a booth makes go to that organization.

"The Chamber of Commerce is trying to unite the community with the campus," Gosbee said. " The community does not despise the university."

The meeting adjourned at 6:31 p.m. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, Sept. 15 at 6 p.m.