2024-04-16 SGA Senate Meeting Minutes

April 16, 2024
2:16 pm, Forum 3-130, Downtown Campus Room 200B, Zoom

In Attendance

Student Senators

  • Senator Mohamed Souhail
  • Senator Ashley Wrobeh
  • Senator Loritea Ellis
  • Senator Liam Krieger
  • Senator Tehya Deisenroth
  • Senator Ky’Johnna Jamison

Election Coordinator

  • Naz Barmak

President

  • Joseph Leichtner

Vice President of Governance

  • Angelo Romero

Vice President of Downtown

  • Mandie McGinnis

Treasurer

  • Zeynep Guney

Chief of Staff

  • Ivy Zin

Secretary of Governance

  • Alicia Crimmins

Student Trustee

  • Ana Santos

Office of Student Life

  • Advisor: Jodi Oriel
  • Faculty Advisor: Mark Sample

Visitors

  • Ginny Geer-Mentry – MCC Association
  • Dana Williams – MCC Student
  • Ryan Messenger – Academic & Student Affairs
  • Aidan Zajowski – Student Music Association
  • Talia Lott – Disabilities Awareness Club
  • Lea Kemp – MCC Student
  • Sanjib Mudvary – MCC Public Safety

Minutes

Call to Order (2:16 pm)

  1. Roll Call (see attendance above)
    Vice President of Governance Romero called for a roll call to start the senate meeting.
  2. Land Acknowledgement
  3. Approval of Minutes
    1. Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the April 9, 2024 Student Government Association minutes.
    2. Senator Souhail so moved, seconded by Senator Krieger
    3. A vote was taken.
    4. Be it resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the April 9, 2024 minutes as written.

Speak to the Senate

  1. Don Beech – MCC Champion

  2. Sanjib Mudvary – MCC Champion

Reports

  1. President Leichtner

    On April 10th, President Leichtner attended the Model United Nations reception to celebrate the delegates’ hard work. This reception was an amazing way to celebrate the efforts of Vice President Romero, Chief of Staff Zin, Treasurer Guney, and Clubs/Organizations Senator Deisenroth. President Leichtner is grateful to have been a part of this program and is excited to see what the delegates do in the future! On April 11th, President Leichtner attended an election workshop with Elections Coordinator Barmak. This workshop covered the requirements for running for office and the rules for campaigning. Elections Coordinator Barmak thoroughly covered the requirements and did an excellent job coordinating the workshop. On April 15th, President Leichtner attended the semi-weekly Phi Theta Kappa meeting. This meeting featured transfer advisor Rebecca Mack, who went over various transfer requirements and answered all questions. This meeting was extremely helpful, and President Leichtner is grateful for Rebecca Mack taking time out of her day to attend the PTK meeting. Thank you.

  2. Vice President Romero

    On Monday, April 8th, Vice President of Governance Romero attended the Solar Eclipse event outside the pat quad with fellow Students and SGA Members. Seeing many students holding the Eclipse Glasses advertising the Student Leadership for MCC was great. Even though the clouds blocked the sun, it was still cool. On Wednesday, April 10th, Vice President of Governance Romero attended the Card Board boat race hosted by ELC with Chief of Staff Zin and Secretary of Governace Crimmins. He would race in the boat where, like last year, it would sink, but he still walked across the pool with the ship to finish it. He would like to thank Chief of Staff Zin and Secretary of Governance Crimmins for building the boat and encouraging him to sink with it again. This same day, he would attend the Model Un Reception with President Leichtner, Treasurer Guney, Chief of Staff Zin, Club & Orgs Senator Deisenroth, and the rest of the UN delegation. He was with the IAEA Committee and his partner Jacob Banke and was honored to work with such outstanding Students and Professors. He hopes others will look into the course and always recommend the class to every student. Let’s go Mongolia!! On Thursday, April 11th, Vice President of Governace Romero attended the Chancellors Award Ceremony in Albany with Student Life Advisor Oriel and Veteran Senator Krieger to celebrate the MCC recipients. Congratulations to Student Trustee Ana Santos, Downtown Vice President Mandie McGinnis, Jemeah Scott, and Co-president of HGHRP Alex Rowley for being awarded the Chancellors Award. Congratulations to Chiji Okoronkwo and Kevin Messam for their accomplishments for PTK. He was honored to celebrate their achievements, is happy for them all, and is thankful to know such amazing people. On Friday, April 12th, Vice President of Governace Romero attended the RA/Peer Navigator Group interview with Student Trustee and RA Ana Santos and Athletic Senator and Peer Navigator Mohamed Souhail to evaluate the students who applied. They would also advise those who are using and hope the best for them. Both Senator Souhail and Student Trustee Santos gave them excellent advice. On Saturday, April 13th, He would also attend the Campus one80 prom with CampusOne80 members and Student Trustee Santos. It was enjoyable, and even though he did not dance, it was still fun. Sorry, Ana. On Sunday, April 14th, He also attended a virtual event for SUNY SA, meeting with some of the candidates running for positions for SUNY SA at the conference, and he was able to talk about his positions and what he is running on.

  3. Vice President of Downtown McGinnis

    Good afternoon, On Monday, April 8th using the “Can you see yourself as a Student Leader” eclipse glasses had an incredible opportunity to experience the eclipse with my family. Thank you to the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development for providing the glasses. Midweek on Wednesday the 10th I tabled for the Downtown Campus Snack – N – Chat. A successful event with a lounge full of students gathering to get more information about getting involved on campus, the SGA elections, socializing, and of course snacking on Sodexo’s delicious cookies and brownies. Thank you, Agnus, and Justine from Sodexo for your support in making this event a success. Also stopping by FYE’s mindfulness spa event that afternoon, making a spa goodie bag to take home and some lunch before heading to class. Leaving the event feeling balanced and refreshed. Later that evening attending the Model United Nation Reception Ceremony, to celebrate all the amazing students in the program. Congratulations to all, especially SGA’s own Vice President of Governance Romero, Treasurer Guney, and Club and Organization Senator Deisenroth. You all inspire me to push myself and to be my best every day. Traveling Thursday Aprill 11th to Albany Captial Center for the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence with Vice President of Governance Romero, Veterans Senator Krieger, Student Trustee Santos, and Advisor Oriel. It is a great honor to be award a Chancellor’s award alongside Trustee Santos, Holocaust, Genocide, Human Rights Project President Alex Rowley, and Jameah Scott. Working alongside each of these nominees the past two years has been an incredible journey of connection and impact for our community. Reflecting on the reasons why for receiving this incredible honor, noticing a theme of service. Service to myself to strive academically, service to others with my roles as a student leader, and service to the Rochester community with my activism and volunteer work. Understanding service to others as my life’s purpose, moving forward using the destination of this award to make a bigger impact on my community and those that Vice President McGinnis serves. We are change markers our hearts lead us to speak with conviction, be fierce advocates for others, and create the change we wish to have in the world. Ending the week Friday April 12th, Vice President McGinnis met with the Disability Awareness officers for an update on their Spread the Word: Inclusion events that will take place at Downtown and Brighton campuses. Upcoming Downtown Events: Wednesday April 17th – Spread the Word: Inclusion 2nd Floor Lounge 12 pm – 1:30pm. Join the Disability Awareness Club to Spread the Word! There will be educational information about Disability, Inclusion and Ablism, take a chance and give the giveaway wheel a spin for tons of great giveaways, there will be food, a visit from the therapy dogs, and so much more. Cannot make the Downtown event no worries the club brings it to the Brighton Campus on April 24th. Wednesday, April 17th – Wednesday the 24th is Spread the Word: Inclusion Spirit Week. Spirit Week is to celebrate MCC’s amazing inclusion community and for all of MCC to join in celebrating inclusion. Check the Student Tribune for spirit week themes.

  4. Treasurer Guney

    Treasurer Guney has no report this week..

  5. Secretary of Governance Crimmins

    Good afternoon, on April 10th, Secretary of Governance Crimmins attended the Model UN reception where many SGA members were students. All of the students received well-deserved recognition for all of their hard work. It was an amazing celebration and Crimmins is inspired to hopefully take the Model UN class next year. She also finished her flyer for campaigning. Thank you.

  6. Chief of Staff Zin

    On April 10th, Chief of Staff Zin was at the cardboard boat race event at MCC pool, and she helped Vice President of Governance Romero and Secretary of Governance Crimmins with making the cardboard boat. It was a really fun event and seeing Vice President of Governance Romero sinking was a fun experience. Also on the same day, Chief of Staff Zin attended the Model United Nations reception. It was an incredible moment seeing the memories from the New York City Conference and hearing the beautiful speeches from the professors and fellow delegates.

  7. Health & Wellness Senator Wrobeh

    Health and Wellness Senator Wrobeh has no report this week.

  8. Election Coordinator Barmak

    During the past week, Naz, the Elections Coordinator, successfully conducted the final election workshop, marking a significant milestone in the electoral process. Congratulations are extended to all participants who actively engaged in these informative sessions. Naz ensured that every candidate had the necessary information and resources to proceed smoothly through the election process. For those who may have been missing any essential components, Naz along with other members personally reached out to provide assistance and ensure completeness. With the workshops concluded, Naz eagerly anticipates the forthcoming election meet scheduled for April 29 from 11 am to 1 pm. This event will serve as a pivotal moment for candidates to present their platforms and engage with the student body. Additionally, she wants to announce that candidates are permitted to include QR codes on their posters and flyers, facilitating easy access to further information about their candidacy. As the election date approaches, she remains committed to fostering a fair and transparent electoral process for all candidates involved.

  9. Athletic Senator Souhail

    On Wednesday, April 10th, Senator Souhail had the privilege of attending the Model UN reception, an event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding efforts of all delegates in representing the institution at a
    conference held in New York City. It was a remarkable occasion, filled with acknowledgments for the remarkable job done by each delegate. Moving forward, on Friday, April 12th, Senator Souhail actively participated in facilitating the group interview process. This process aimed to identify the most qualified candidates for the roles of Resident Advisors (RAs) and Peer Navigators. It was an engaging and insightful experience, where they sought individuals who exhibit the skills and qualities necessary to excel in these important positions within the college.

  10. Virtual Campus Senator Ellis

    On April 1, 2024, Senator Ellis was asked by a donor visiting from out-of-town on Monday, April 1 (during the break) to do an interview. The donor wanted to do a short video featuring a student that has received MCC Assist. That is comfortable sharing their story and own testimonial about receiving the MCC Assist grant. Senator Ellis was reached out by Katie Bastinelli Department of MCC Foundation, and Christyn Sanagursky of MCC Foundation to help her prepare for the interview. In the library Senator Ellis met the filming crew and Vice President Gretchen Wood to proceed with the interview. Senator Ellis felt very blessed, and fortunate to be able to share her story.

  11. Veterans Senator Krieger
    On April 11th, Senator Krieger had the privilege of attending the New York State SUNY Chancellor Award ceremony accompanied by Ana Santos, Angelo Romero, Mandy McGuiness, and Jodi Oriel. The purpose of their attendance was to celebrate and recognize the remarkable contributions made by these individuals in inspiring their communities and the world at large. Additionally, Krieger also had the pleasure of attending the UN reception, where he had the opportunity to meet with Ivy Zin, Angelo Romero, Tehya Deisenroth, and Jospeh Leichtner. These individuals have a remarkable passion for making meaningful contributions that inspire those around them. Their dedication and drive truly inspire him, and he is eagerly looking forward to witnessing the great things they will continue to accomplish.
  12. Clubs and Organizations Senator Deisenroth
    Hello. This week Clubs and Orgs Senator Deisenroth attended the Model UN reception. Her and her fellow delegates were celebrated for their hard work over the past 3 months. They all gave speeches about their experiences in New York City and with research. She states that it was very fun and will miss the class. Thank you.
  13. Public Relations Senator Jamison
    Public Relations Senator Jamison has no report this week.

New Business

  1. Action Items (requires a senate vote)
    1. Resolution for the Funding Request of $200 for SMA.

      Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the funding request of $200 to SMA to fund food, drinks, and snacks at the Open Mic Night.
      Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
      Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Deisenroth.
      Discussion: SMA completed and met the standards and the requirements of the Student Government Association and Office of Student Life and Leadership.
      A vote was taken. The resolution passed.
      Be it resolved, the senate present and voting that the Student Government Association allocate $200 from their Contingency Account to SMA at Monroe Community College.

    2. Resolution for the Funding Request of $224 for the Scribe Society.
      Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the funding request of $224 to Scribe Society for their Open Mic event at Deja Brew on April 23rd, the universally recognized day of Shakespeare’s birthday.
      Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
      Senator Deisenroth so moved, second by Senator Krieger.
      Discussion: Scribe Society completed and met the standards and the requirements of the Student Government Association and Office of Student Life and Leadership.
      A vote was taken. The resolution passed.
      Be it resolved, the senate present and voting that the Student Government Association allocate $224 from their Contingency Account to Scribe Society at Monroe Community College.
    3. Resolution for the Funding Request of $154 for the Scribe Society.
      Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the funding request of $154 to Scribe Society to fund their table at the Inclusion Event.
      Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
      Senator Deisenroth so moved, second by Senator Souhail.
      Discussion: Scribe Society completed and met the standards and the requirements of the Student Government Association and Office of Student Life and Leadership.
      A vote was taken. The resolution passed.
      Be it resolved, the senate present and voting that the Student Government Association allocate $154 from their Contingency Account to Scribe Society at Monroe Community College.
    4. Resolution for the Funding Request of $650 for the Veterans Club.
      Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the funding request of $3,000 to Disability Awareness Club to fund their Spread the Word events.
      Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
      Senator Krieger so moved, second by Senator Souhail.
      Discussion: Veterans Club completed and met the standards and the requirements of the Student Government Association and Office of Student Life and Leadership.
      A vote was taken. The resolution passed.
      Be it resolved, the senate present and voting that the Student Government Association allocate $650 from their Contingency Account to Veterans Club at Monroe Community College.
    5. Resolution for the Funding Request of $389 for the Chess Club.
      Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the funding request of $389 to Chess Club to fund an AI powered GoChess Board.
      Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
      Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Krieger.
      Discussion: Chess Club completed and met the standards and the requirements of the Student Government Association and Office of Student Life and Leadership.
      A vote was taken. The resolution passed.
      Be it resolved, the senate present and voting that the Student Government Association allocate $389 from their Contingency Account to Chess Club at Monroe Community College.

Discussion Items

  1. There were no discussion items.

Old Business

  1. There was no old business.

Questions and Comments

  1. There were no questions or comments.

Adjournment

  1. Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion for adjournment.

    Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Krieger
  2. Meeting was adjourned at 2:56 pm.

Executive Session

Respectfully submitted,
Alicia Crimmins
Secretary of Governance