2026-03-17 SGA Senate Meeting Minutes | Student Government Association

March 10, 2026

2:15pm, Forum 3-130, Downtown Campus Room 200B, Zoom

In Attendance

Student Senators

Senator Maddilyn Keech
Senator Elle Reeves
Senator John Breedy
Senator Rusty Smetanyak
Senator Charles
Senator Blaska

President

Lisa Burno

Vice President of Governance

Margherita Rizzuti

Student Trustee

Parker Werven

Chief of Staff

Abigail Pottinger

Office of Student Life

Advisor: Jodi Oriel
Faculty Advisor: Mark Sample

Visitors

Christine Cormack (online)
Chloe Allen (online)
Veronica Chiesi Brown – Community Relations
Dana Williams – MCC Student
Benny Martinez – SNA
Leanna Smith – Rad Tech
Jordan Bridge- Rad Tech
Maddie Hoyt – Rad Tech
Leonardo Nunez – YDSA
Kolby Anderson-Harris – Cabbages & Kings
Ryan Messenger – Academic & Student Affairs
Eric Wheeler – Veteran Services
Rachael Baldwin – Surgical Technology

Minutes

Call to Order (2:15 pm)

Roll Call (see attendance above)
Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a roll call to start the senate meeting.
Land Acknowledgement
Approval of Minutes
1. Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the March 10, 2026, Student Government Association Minutes
2. Senator Breedy moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak
3. A vote was taken
4. Be it resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the March 10, 2026, minutes as written

Reports

President Burno

This past week was a busy one for me as I’ve been actively preparing for midterms. In addition to that, my team and I have been working hard to prepare for the upcoming elections. We’ve been focusing on recruiting, setting up workshop times, and organizing other materials to ensure everything runs smoothly. I’m really excited for campaign season and to see who will step up to carry on the legacy of our team. On Thursday, March 12, I held an interview alongside Chief of Staff Pottinger for the position of Downtown Vice President. The interview went exceptionally well, and I believe this candidate will make a great addition to our team. I’m always excited to welcome individuals who are passionate, motivated, and eager to contribute to the work we’re doing. Overall, it was a very productive week, and I’m looking forward to everything that’s ahead as we move further into the semester.
Vice President of Governance Rizzuti

No Report for this week
Student Trustee Werven

Not much to report this week, besides the consistent work being put into my academics including Model United Nations. Throughout the week, I talked to many club officers and will continue to do so. Specifics like how to help with gaining more attention to their meetings and events, funding request questions, and even finding ways the Student Government Association can help with the entire process extracurricular wise and/or academically. In addition, we had another great STS meeting last Friday where we introduced posters and formed plans to talk more to the student body about the student-led media. I’d like to draw special attention to SADHA (Student American Dental Hygienists’ Association). On campus, these students provide cleanings, thorough examinations, and include fluoride and sealants. Additionally, aiding in education, free products, panoramic x-rays, bitewings, etc. The best part – everything is free for students, employees, and faculty with no insurance required! All they ask is for people’s time and commitment to working on your teeth. Afterall, this is a win/win scenario where almost 60 students gain hands-on experience in the field and patients reap benefits from the free and accessible hygiene clinic on campus. And if you don’t trust them initially, just know they are checked by professors, who are all registered hygienists and/or the rotating doctor on staff. Clinic hours are constantly changing; however typically, you should be able to walk in or call (585)292-2045 during the hours of 9-3pm. Please check out the clinic in building 7 room 201, the door is always open! Just keep in mind, the semester is running away from us and it’s best for students, employees, and faculty to get their foot in the door as soon as possible. I know many members of SGA are interested in cleaning work already. If you have any follow up questions, please ask so I can either answer or defer you to someone who can. To end, I look forward to the week ahead
Chief of Staff Pottinger

Good afternoon everyone, and welcome back to another Senate meeting. On Monday, March 9th, I attended a meeting of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) for a session on Bird and Nature Journaling with Biology Professor Erin Strobl. During the meeting, we discussed the benefits of bird and nature journaling, such as improving observation skills, reducing stress, and developing a deeper connection with the natural world. One interesting fun fact we learned was that the Bullet Train 700 Series Shinkansen was inspired by the kingfisher bird. Engineers modeled the train’s nose after the bird’s beak to reduce the loud sonic boom that occurred when trains exited tunnels while traveling at speeds of 150–200 mph. Overall, it was a very informative and enjoyable event. On Tuesday, March 10th, along with members of the team, we helped organize and sort through the clothing that was collected from the clothing drive that concluded last week. It was great to see the generosity of our campus community, and the items we organized will soon be made available to support members of our campus community who may benefit from them. On Wednesday, March 11th, I attended a Math Club meeting where we explored the statistics and probability behind poker. We discussed how odds, expected value, and decision-making strategies influence gameplay. After learning about the mathematical concepts, we played a few rounds of poker ourselves, and I’m proud to say that I won by a landslide. I encourage anyone who enjoys math or problem solving to attend their meetings. They are held every Wednesday from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM in Room 3-121. On Thursday, March 12th, on Thursday, March 12th, alongside President Bruno, I conducted an interview with Anthony Flanders for the position of Vice President of the Downtown Campus. He had a strong interview, and his passion and enthusiasm for advocating for the Downtown Campus were very evident. I am happy to welcome him as a new addition to our team. Later that day, I attended another SWE meeting where we discussed upcoming meeting plans and potential participation in the cardboard boat race. I encourage anyone interested in engineering or learning more about the organization to attend their meetings. SWE meets on Thursdays from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in Room 3-121. Thank you.
Public Relations Senator Keech

Over the past week, I have been actively filling my role as public relations senator. I worked with the team to sort all the clothes for the clothing drive. It was a very successful clothing drive that the SGA participated in.
Public Relations Senator Smetanyak

This week, I reviewed several student organization funding requests and worked on drafting the related resolutions for upcoming consideration. In addition, I attended an elections workshop and spent time going over the SGA election rules and procedures as part of my preparation for the Student Trustee election. This helped me better understand the expectations, requirements, and overall process for the election, while also making sure I am prepared to follow the guidelines correctly throughout the campaign period.
Student Relations Senator Breedy

As the Student Relations Senator for the Monroe Community College Student Government Association, I actively contributed to strengthening student engagement throughout the semester by participating in multiple tabling events across campus. These outreach efforts focused on promoting upcoming campus activities, encouraging involvement in student programs, and connecting students with resources that support their academic and social experience at MCC. A significant portion of my work also centered on raising awareness for the upcoming Fall 2026 SGA elections, where I spoke with students about leadership opportunities, shared information about open positions, and encouraged broader participation in the election process. Through these initiatives, I helped increase visibility of SGA, fostered stronger connections with the student body, and supported a more engaged and informed campus community.
Clubs and Organizations Senator Reeves

This week on Tuesday, Elle worked with her team to help fold and organize donated clothing. The group sorted the items to make them easier to distribute and accessible for members of the community who need them. The activity allowed the team to work together while supporting an important service effort. By organizing the donations, the team helped make the process more efficient and ensured the items would be ready for those who rely on them. It also highlighted the value of teamwork and community support. On Friday, the Student-to-Student Communication Committee held another productive meeting. During the discussion, members talked about reaching out to professors to help spread awareness about the new empty tile designed to increase student participation. The committee discussed how faculty could help introduce the tile in their classrooms so more students learn about the platform and feel encouraged to contribute. In addition, Elle and her fellow chair members created posters to help generate more student interest and bring more attention to the new tile. These posters will help promote the platform across campus and encourage students to get involved. The committee will continue holding its regular weekly meetings every Friday from 1:00 to 1:50 as they continue developing the initiative.
Diversity Senator Charles

On Tuesday, March 10, I helped the SGA team finish the clothing drive by sorting and preparing the donated clothing so it could be given to those in need. The drive was a success, and many students donated good-quality clothes. I really enjoyed working with the team and bonding while we helped organize everything. I also appreciated being able to talk with the team about ideas on how I can continue to be more involved as a Diversity Senator. Overall, it was a really good and productive week.
Athletic Senator Blaska

Previously I had mentioned that I have been in contact with the athletics department and our new athletics director. Since I hadn’t before, I would like to congratulate the new athletics director on his appointment. On other note, I’d like to mention that our Tribune Baseball Home opener is this Thursday at 1pm, and I would encourage everyone here to attend the game if you can make it. I personally have never been a big baseball guy, but I know some of the people on the team, and I think it would be a good thing to go out there and show our players some support. With all that being said, apart from my role as athletics senator, I am really looking to hunker down on some of my school work, especially calculus, as well as take of any other business that I need to attend to. So far, I have enjoyed my time in SGA, and I look forward to involving myself more in athletics as well as various group efforts.
Student Life Advisor Oriel
Thank you to Rusty, Abbie, & Parker for meeting with the Vice Chancellor today. He was very impressed. Reminder that Middle States is next week. Congratulations to Lisa, Cricket, Abbie, Margherita, & Parker on receiving the Chancellor’s award. The ceremony is on April 27^th, so save the date. The President is looking for students to have some photos taken with her outside the library tomorrow at 1:30 pm. If interested please let Jodi know.

Old Business

A. There was no old business.

New Business

Resolution to approve the appointment of Anthony Flanders as the Vice President of the Downtown Campus.

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the appointment

of Anthony Flanders as the Vice President of the Downtown Campus

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Reeves.

Discussion: Anthony Flanders has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the appointment of Anthony Flanders as the Vice President of the Downtown Campus, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the constitution for the Maker Club

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the constitution for the Maker Club

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Reeves.

Discussion: The Maker Club has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the constitution for the Maker Club, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the funding request of $415 for the Radiology Technology Club

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request for the Radiology Technology Club

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Blaska.

Discussion: The Radiology Technology Club has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request of $415 for the Radiology Technology Club, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the funding request of $200.96 for the Surgical Technology Club

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request for the Surgical Technology Club

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak.

Discussion: The Surgical Technology Club has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request of $200.96 for the Surgical Technology Club, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the funding request of $200 for the Student Music Association

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request for the Student Music Association

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak.

Discussion: The Student Music Association has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request of $200 for the Student Music Association, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the funding request of $138 for the Volleyball Club

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request for the Volleyball Club

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak.

Discussion: The Volleyball Club has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request of $138 for the Volleyball Club, effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College
Resolution to approve the funding request of $289.17 for Cabbages & Kings

Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request for Cabbages & Kings

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak.

Discussion: Cabbages & Kings has completed and met the requirements set forth by the Student Government Association and the Office of Student Life and Leadership.

A vote was taken, and the resolution passed.

Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request of $289.17 for Cabbages & Kings effective March 17, 2026 at Monroe Community College

Speak to the Senate

There was no one registered to speak to the senate this week

Adjournment

Chief of Staff Pottinger called for a motion for adjournment.
Senator Breedy so moved, second by Senator Smetanyak
Meeting was adjourned at 2:52 pm.

Respectfully submitted