2024-05-14 Student Government Association Minutes | Student Government Association

May 14, 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
Kahlil Lewis – MCC Student
Nicholas Tran – MCC Student
Calvin Gantt – Administration
Candice Baldwin – Chief of Staff
Danilio Kalumbwe – MCC Student
Dr. Philip Doku – TRS Math Department
Nadiia Kachaluba – CAB
Greg Hinton – Administrative Services
Diane Navarro – Campus One80
Kyle Kronenberger – MCC Student

Minutes

Call to Order (2:16 pm)

Roll Call (see attendance above)
Vice President of Governance Romero called for a roll call to start the senate meeting.
Land Acknowledgement
Approval of Minutes
1. Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the May 7, 2024 Student Government Association minutes.
2. Senator Krieger so moved, seconded by Senator Souhail
3. A vote was taken.
4. Be it resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the May 7, 2024 minutes as written.

Speak to the Senate

Dr. Ryan Messenger – MCC Champion
Virginia Geer-Mentry – MCC Champion
Mary Geisert – MCC Champion
Melissa Gue – MCC Champion
Ana Santos – MCC Champion
Mark Sample – MCC Champion
Jodi Oriel – MCC Champion

Reports

President Leichtner

At the beginning of President Leichtner’s term, he approached the role with a strong vision and a desire to make significant changes. However, as the year progressed, he realized that effective leadership is not solely about driving initiatives but also about listening, understanding, and being receptive to diverse perspectives. He learned to lead with humility, recognizing that the strength of the community lies in its collective voice. This taught him the value of patience and the importance of fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued. Navigating the challenges that arose throughout the year was a test of resilience. From managing unexpected crises, to addressing the concerns of our student body, President Leichtner learned to approach obstacles with a calm and composed demeanor. Each challenge reinforced the importance of adaptability, and the necessity of maintaining a positive outlook, even in the face of adversity. This resilience has not only strengthened his leadership capabilities but has also instilled a greater sense of confidence in his ability to handle future challenges. Engaging with students from various backgrounds and experiences has been one of the most enriching aspects of his role. Leichtner had the opportunity to connect with individuals whose perspectives differ vastly from his own. These interactions have deepened his empathy and broadened his understanding of the unique challenges faced by different members of the community. This growth in empathy drove him to advocate more passionately for inclusivity and equity within the institution. One of the most significant lessons he learned is the power of collaboration. Leading SGA showed him that achieving meaningful progress requires the collective efforts of a dedicated team. He grew to appreciate the strengths and talents of his fellow SGA members and have learned to delegate responsibilities, trust in their abilities, and celebrate their shared successes. This collaborative spirit reinforced the notion that true leadership is about empowering others to lead alongside you. As President Leichtner reflects on this year, he is profoundly grateful for the experiences and lessons that shaped his journey. The growth he experienced as a leader and as an individual is a testament to the support and trust of the student body and the unwavering dedication of his fellow SGA members. This year has been a period of immense personal development, marked by humility, resilience, empathy, effective communication, and collaboration. As he steps away from his role, he will carry forward these lessons with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to continue serving the community in meaningful ways. He thanks SGA for the opportunity to lead, learn, and grow.
Vice President Romero

Good afternoon, everyone. Romero realizes that this will be the last time he runs the Senate Meeting. He remembers running it back in June 2023 and thinking, “Don’t mess up, Don’t Mess up, Don’t mess up.” It was fun for him, and he knows he will miss doing it. Romero knows a great friend is succeeding in his place, and she will do a great job. When it comes to this academic year, all he can say is “WOW!” This year has been very interesting for Romero and his fellow friends. If you were to tell him when he was in High School that he would be doing all of what he did this year today; he would call you insane because this is not who Romero was even a year ago today, and many people can attest to that. He wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for the SGA Team, whom he all calls his good friends, advisors, and those outside of SGA who have been supportive. Without this fantastic team, SGA would not have been as strong and unique as it is now. To those graduating, Mandie, Ana, Zeynep, Ivy, and Mohamed, he states they have all been such amazing people in which he is glad to call his good friends, and who he considers family. Romero knows after MCC, they’re going to kick butt at whatever they do next and continue to be awesome people. Now, of course, this is not a goodbye; it’s a he’ll catch you later. To those staying with SGA and those joining, Romero can’t wait to stay for one more year and continue to stick with amazing people. He hopes to live up to past SGA Presidents like Joe and Paula Barlow, and help do amazing things for the school!
Vice President of Downtown McGinnis

Leadership is not a journey to rise to the ranks. Leadership is a journey to help those around us rise. Vice President of Downtown McGinnis’ leadership journey begins January 2020, a gift to herself for her 39th birthday. Enrolling to be a Tribune, not knowing the world of opportunities and the impact that gift to self would be. Academic success propelled McGinnis into a position to meet director, advisor, mentor, and friend, Jodi Oriel. Having the mentorship of Advisor Oriel aligned her into a student leader role that utilized her natural talents of being a helper, advocate, rebel, and organizer. Serving two terms as SGA’s Vice President of Downtown with the motto “Kindness in Action,” using her platform to actively service the MCC community, making an impact locally, regionally, and internationally with the support of Phi Theta Kappa in her role as Chair of College Project. Helping to take a Downtown Campus student’s idea of shadowing an SGA member, to an internship as a Student Ambassador in the OSLLD. The “Day in the Life” internship has grown from a seed of an idea to a 3-semester blossoming internship, with 5 internships and 4 students to-date, impacted by a single idea. McGinnis’ advocacy skills highlighted weekly at the public senate, at times, her report busting at the seams with the week’s long happenings as VP of Downtown. Whether away at a SUNY SA conference representing as a voting delegate, or SA member, advocacy for all, was the mission. That said success is possible because MCC champions, advocacy, and giving students the platform to amplify the voice of many, bring forth profound change. Albany got a chance to test out the rebel in McGinnis, she says to ask Advisor Sample and Vice President Romero about that meeting with Assemblyman Michael Fitzpatrick. These moments and meetings are what she loves doing; serving, and advocating for others. As her term ends, she realizes the magic of being an organizer. To take groups of people, ideas, and things, and bringing them together for an incredible wave of impact for all, rising together to serve many. That is her journey as a leader here at MCC, leaving a legacy of action that will forever leave an impact not only on her path, but in her heart. Moving forward, McGinnis plans to transfer to Nazareth University pursuing a bachelor’s in social work, with an end academic goal of a master’s in social work, to focus on community engagement and empowerment. Aspiring to establish a nonprofit within Rochester, NY, a short distance from MCC’s Downtown Campus, you can find her in a community garden sowing the seeds with the hope of supporting others to get to MCC’s doors of opportunity. She thanks SGA advisors Jodi Oriel and Mark Sample, for without the role of them two in her life, she would not have had the opportunity to make this type of impact, without the significant impact they have made on her. Who knew weekly life-coaching walks would create so much change? Thank you. “Every single one of us matters, has a role to play, makes a difference. We cannot live through a day without impacting the world around us – and we have a choice: what sort of impact do we want to make?” – Jane Goodall
Treasurer Guney

At the beginning of this journey, Treasurer Guney wasn’t sure it would end here. Actually, she can’t say it’s ending, because every end is pregnant to a beginning. The place of the SGA is quite unique both in her life and her MCC journey. It was a small step for the world, but a giant leap for Guney. She first saw SGA at the Student Life Fair her freshman year. Though it sparked excitement in her heart, her courage was in deep slumber. She contented herself with admiration. However, after meeting her, now, friend Ava at the job she started before the second semester, Guney began to learn more about SGA; she wanted to recruit members and was talking about the group to her friends. But even after a semester had passed since she started school, she still didn’t feel ready. One day in her Public Speaking class, during a classmate’s speech, Guney’s friend emphasized the importance of making friends at college, getting involved in different activities beyond just going to school for classes, and how joining a club would help develop qualities like leadership. The courage dormant within her awakened, and she listened to Ava’s introduction and offer to join SGA. There was no ambition in Guney as she embarked on this journey, but there was effort. The warm atmosphere that greeted her when she first entered the office for an interview, sparked a strange feeling within her. She had completed her first term of duty in the spring semester of 2023. She auditioned for the new year and started the new year with a new team. This journey taught Treasurer Guney to make collective decisions with unity and solidarity, respecting each other’s ideas and opinions by listening and taking care; to maintain our seriousness where necessary but still be able to laugh and have fun in friendly environments at the end of the day; to navigate through thorns, bad roads, through observation, listening, and being attentive; and that conflicts can be overcome through effort. Thanks to the voice given to students by the college, they tried to be a student representative on the board of directors and a representative of the board of directors among the students. They became a bridge. This experience of interaction between students and the board of directors has become a vital experience in our professional lives, and even now in our interpersonal relationships. As a political science student, it allowed Guney to experience what she learned in class, depending on where and what position she was in. She is very grateful to have started this journey with MCC and to have started in such a beautiful environment where she can explore her abilities and talents without fear, hesitation, or reservation. She would like to thank advisors, Jodi Oriel and Mark Sample. Taking her first steps into adult life alongside them, strengthened her determination. Then, her fellow friends, President Joesph Lechtner, Vice President of Governance Angelo Romero, Vice President of Downtown Mandie McGinnis, Chief of Staff Ivy Zin, Secretary of Governance Alicia Crimmins, Student Trustee Ana Santos, Senator Mohamed Souhail, Senator Ashley Wrobeh, Senator Loritea Ellis, Senator Liam Krieger, Senator Tehya Deisenroth, Senator Ky’Johnna Jamison, and Election Coordinator Naz Barmak. It was very precious and lucky for her to spend this beautiful journey with them. She states they will always remain a beautiful memory in her life, in of the most outstanding chapters of her life-book.
Secretary of Governance Crimmins

Secretary of Governance Crimmins will start off by saying she is not the best at heartfelt reflections, but SGA truly has a special place in her heart. She recalls last October, where she applied as soon as she found out about SGA. She was later interviewed by none other than Vice President of Governance Romero, Health and Wellness Senator Wrobeh, Treasurer Guney, and Advisor Mark Sample. She was then the Residence Halls Senator and later appointed to Secretary of Governance before the fall semester ended. Now as the Vice President of Governance elect, Crimmins can’t wait to spend the next year alongside President-elect Angelo Romero, governing SGA and working towards the betterment of MCC and its students. This past year in student government has been extremely eventful; definitely the most consistently busy she’s ever been in her life, and she cannot be more grateful. From the weekly meetings to the 3-day conferences, SGA has shown Crimmins so much about courage, persistence, governance, ambition, and opportunity-taking. That is to say, it wouldn’t be that way without the family they have built here. She loves the friends and connections she has made, and will miss her friends that are graduating, as well as the friends that aren’t returning next semester. She is so grateful for all of the opportunities she has had the privilege of pursuing and is so proud of the accomplishments they have made. She thanks Angelo for helping and guiding her since day 1, and thanks Tehya for being her best friend since day 147. Crimmins is so excited for the new team of elects, and for what is to come next year, she knows they will do great things.
Chief of Staff Zin

This ending of the academic 2023-2024 year, Chief of Staff Zin would like to report on the reflection of her positions at the student government association. Looking back over the past two semesters, she served as a Secretary of Governance in the Fall of 2023, and her current and last position at MCC Student Government Association, is Chief of Staff. All the experiences have impacted her life and her career life as a positive impact and it shaped her as a professional growth person. All these communication experiences as a member of the student government association have helped her to succeed not only in the present but also in my future career path. Community and Communication is how she describes her student leader experiences. It helped her get out of her comfort zone, connect with different people, experience the most incredible moments, and one more big thing in her life would be friendship from the leadership. She will be graduating this semester at MCC and she is moving forward to her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, in the Fall of 2024 at a different SUNY school. As an International Student, MCC was her first direction in the United States. Her very first day arriving in the United States was intimidating and to be honest yes, she was so scared to be left out. But all these experiences at MCC made her feel encouraged and from these, she had to know all these wonderful people at this amazing place. Thank you, Monroe Community College for giving these incredible experiences and thank you for everything you provided.
Health & Wellness Senator Wrobeh

This year has been a great experience for Health and Wellness Senator Wrobeh. This was her first year at MCC and she joined Student Government over the summer, and states it was one of the best decisions she has made. She thought it was great to have a safe place to talk with the first friends she made at MCC. She found interest in learning how MCC works as a college, and also loved that students had a direct impact on almost everything that goes on in the school, such as the rules, budgets, and events that occur. One of her favorite things about student government is all the events and trips that SGA sponsored for the clubs and organizations. These events made school fun for the students and took their minds off the grueling assignments and exams they had coming up. At least that’s what they did for her. Wrobeh also learned a lot about herself as a student leader. She learned that she likes teamwork when it comes to solving problems and listening to others. She also learned that she loves engaging with the community, especially at snack and chats, and student life fairs. Overall, this has been a great experience for Wrobeh and she can’t wait to come back.
Election Coordinator Barmak

Hey everyone, as this term comes to a close, Election Coordinator Barmak wanted to take a moment to reflect on everything SGA has accomplished over the past year. Serving on Student Government has been an incredible journey filled with learning, growth, and inspiration for her. One of the most valuable lessons she’s learned in Student Government, is the importance of seeing the bigger picture. It’s easy to get caught up in the details of day-to-day tasks, but being part of the team has taught her to step back and consider the broader impact of decisions and actions. Another key takeaway has been the art of asking questions. Whether it’s seeking clarification on an issue or challenging the status quo, Barmak has come to understand the power of curiosity in driving meaningful change. Along the way, she also discovered her own flaws and areas for improvement, and is grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow from those experiences. Above all, being a part of Student Government has been a journey of self-discovery. It’s helped her to clarify her values, hone leadership skills, and gain a deeper understanding of her own strengths and weaknesses. Through collaboration with peers, and engagement with the broader student body, Barmak has been inspired to dream bigger and strive for excellence in everything she does. As she prepares to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders, she wants to express her gratitude to each and every student leader for their dedication, passion, and support. Together, they’ve made a real difference in the lives of fellow students, and Barmak couldn’t be prouder of what SGA has accomplished. Although her time in Student Government may be coming to an end, the lessons she’s learned and the memories made will stay with her forever. She thanks everyone for an unforgettable experience,and wishes for those who are interested in joining Student Government and/or coming back next year, look to the bright future ahead of them along with an unforgettable experience.
Athletic Senator Souhail

Athletic Relations Senator Souhail is grateful to have been part of such an incredible group. He is genuinely inspired by each member since this past summer when he joined the Student Government. Their effort in making MCC better is beyond belief. Each of them have been constant with their task, attending the meetings and balancing SGA with everything else. Every event that they organized have been successful; from the 9/11 ceremony, to snack and chats, and the election campaign, and the incredible job that they did advocating for MCC and all Community Colleges. He wishes everyone the best, and is confident that they will all achieve remarkable things in life.
Virtual Campus Senator Ellis

Virtual Senator Ellis is thankful for all the wonderful opportunities that she has been able to get. Every time she has joined the student government, she has been able to see first-hand the wonderful experiences of being an SGA member. Getting along with her peers and learning about the change that SGA makes happen for the students has truly been a great experience that Senator Ellis has been able to witness. Getting to know the roles of MCC staff members, and what their position is, has been very vital for her. It has helped shape the knowledge which was once limited to her into a different stage. Senator Ellis has been able to attend several events held at the Convention Center, galas, speaking engagements and much more. Being a part of MCC and being a part such a team of change makers has really helped Senator Ellis to see all the wonderful leaders that she can stand and walk along side with. MCC has given such wonderful opportunities, and for her to be able to be selected has been truly an honor. This year has not been one that did not teach anything. This year has taught Senator Ellis about what it means to be a village, from receiving help with the MCC Assist, Scholarships, Gift cards, tutors, Trio, and many more blessings. Senator Ellis has been able to thrive because of all the support, care, and village that MCC and especially her newfound family SGA. Senator Ellis was able to step into a bigger role and will bring the new academic year in with being the best version that everyone has helped her to become. To make one dream come true is really a blessing, but to make many more students dreams also come to reality is truly heaven sent. So, I would like to thank each, and every last one of you being a part of what is making MCC, students, staff, and community great. It takes a village and Senator Ellis is truly proud and happy to know that she has you all for her village.
Veterans Senator Krieger
As Senator Krieger takes a moment to reflect on his journey within the student government this semester, he can’t help but acknowledge the ebbs and flows of his own performance. While the organization itself has remained steadfast, Krieger admits that his contributions have sometimes been inconsistent. Yet, amidst his personal challenges, he’s been immensely fortunate to be surrounded by a team of individuals who have shown unwavering patience and support through every obstacle they’ve faced together. To each member of this team, he extends his deepest gratitude and admiration for the resilience and dedication everyone has demonstrated. Thinking back to the beginning of his journey, it feels like just yesterday that Angelo Romero and Liam Krieger embarked on their path within student government. Now, as many of the esteemed colleagues prepare to graduate and move forward into new phases of their lives, Krieger is filled with a profound sense of optimism for the future that awaits them. In moments of adversity, it is their dedication and collective strength that truly define them. He is hopeful and excited to witness the continued growth and development of the team, as well as the broader community, in the days to come. He also wants to express his heartfelt gratitude to individuals such as Jodi and Mark Sample, whose wisdom and intelligence has guided SGA through challenging times. Additionally, the support SGA received from members like Ryan Messenger and others has been instrumental in shaping their journey. As some of these influential figures prepare to move on from the community this semester, they leave behind a legacy that will continue to shape the landscape of Monroe Community College. It is now incumbent upon the remaining body to honor their contributions
and carry forward their vision for a better tomorrow for both students and faculty alike. Together, they will step into the future with determination and purpose, knowing that everyone stands on the shoulders of those who paved the way before them. The collective efforts will undoubtedly shape a brighter and more inclusive tomorrow for all who call this community home.
Clubs and Organizations Senator Deisenroth
On Tuesday, May 7th, Senator Deisenroth lead the Clubs and Orgs meeting, and all of the student leaders there have plans for the future and did a really good job leading their clubs. On Wednesday, May 8th, Senator Deisenroth, along with Vice President of Governance Romero and Vice President of Downtown Campus McGinnis, volunteered at Spring Fling. She helped set up activities, helped students and faculty navigate, and handed out tickets for food and ice cream. She loved working with Mary and highly enjoyed Spring Fling. Senator Deisenroth joined student government only a couple months ago, but she already feels like she is a part of a family. Everyone is so kind and welcoming and she loves being a part of this community. Senator Deisenroth also loves the work, because she knows she is helping other students and that’s what really matters to her. Senator Deisenroth enjoyed getting to know everyone involved with student government, and she was so happy to be a leading hand in the clubs and organizations. Having a leadership position has taught her how to stand up for herself and to voice her experiences and opinions because she has learned that what she thinks and feels is genuinely important. Having a leadership position has infused Senator Deisenroth into the MCC community when she didn’t have that at all last semester, and she loves being here and being a part of this community. Senator Deisenroth is so excited for next semester and all of the help she can provide to student government and the people at MCC.
Public Relations Senator Jamison
During her time as a member of SGA, Ky’Johnna has fostered a plethora of newfound skills including public speaking, event planning, and public programming. By utilizing the numerous networking opportunities offered by SGA, she’s received valuable guidance and professional development, developing meaningful relationships with both her student cohort and community leaders. Ky’Johnna has had the opportunity to collaborate with community leaders with the goal of addressing pressing issues within marginalized communities. With access to the cultural events and community-based panels hosted during this semester, she’s grown into a student leader, leaving with greater confidence, a larger network, and higher cultural sensitivity. Her role within Student Government has allowed her to develop a deeper connection to the Greater Rochester Area through community engagement.

New Business

Action Items (requires a senate vote)
1. Resolution for the Appointment of Liam Krieger for Chief of Staff.
  
  Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the appointment of Liam Krieger from Veteran’s Senator to Chief of Staff.
  Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
  Senator Deisenroth so moved, second by Senator Souhail.
  Discussion: Liam Krieger completed and met the standards 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 approve the appointment of Liam Kreiger to become Chief of Staff effective May 31st, 2024, at Monroe Community College.
2. Resolution for the Appointment of Tehya Deisenroth for Secretary of Governance.
  Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the appointment of Tehya Deisenroth from Clubs and Organizations Senator to Secretary of Governance.
  Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
  Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Krieger.
  Discussion: Tehya Deisenroth completed and met the standards 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 approve the appointment of Tehya Deisenroth to become Secretary of Governance effective May 31st, 2024, at Monroe Community College.
3. Resolution for the Appointment of Esma Demir for Treasurer.
  Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the appointment of Esma Desmir to Treasurer.
  Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
  Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Krieger.
  Discussion: Esma Demir completed and met the standards 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 approve the appointment of Esma Demir to become Treasurer effective May 31st, 2024, at Monroe Community College.
4. Resolution for the Appointment of Billy Simba for Student Relations Senator.
  Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the appointment of Billy Simba to Student Relations Senator.
  Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
  Senator Souhail so moved, second by Senator Deisenroth.
  Discussion: Billy Simba completed and met the standards 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 approve the appointment of Billy Simba to become Student Relations Senator effective May 31st, 2024, at Monroe Community College.
5. Resolution for the Appointment of Ashley Wrobeh for Health and Wellness Senator.
  Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approved the appointment and reinstatement of Ashley Wrobeh to Health and Wellness Senator.
  Vice President of Governance Romero called for a motion to approve the resolution.
  Senator Deisenroth so moved, second by Senator Souhail.
  Discussion: Ashley Wrobeh completed and met the standards 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 approve the appointment of Ashley Wrobeh to continue the Health and Wellness Senator position effective May 31st, 2024, at Monroe Community College.

Discussion Items

There were no discussion items.

Old Business

There was no old business.

Questions and Comments

There were no questions or comments.

Adjournment

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

Senator Ellis so moved, second by Senator Krieger
Meeting was adjourned at 3:37 pm.

Executive Session

Respectfully submitted,
Alicia Crimmins
Secretary of Governance