2025-11-4 SGA Senate Meeting Minutes

November 4, 2025

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

In Attendance

Student Senators

  • Senator Maddilyn Keech
  • Senator Elle Reeves
  • Senator Abigail Pottinger
  • Senator John Breedy
  • Senator Rusty Smetanyak

President

  • Lisa Burno

Vice President of Governance

  • Margherita Rizzuti

Secretary of Governance

  • Hajer Enaami

Student Trustee

  • Parker Werven

Office of Student Life

  • Advisor: Jodi Oriel
  • Faculty Advisor: Mark Sample

Visitors

  • Dana Williams – MCC Student
  • Ginny Geer-Mentry – MCC Association
  • Veronica Chiesi Brown – Community Relations
  • Ryan Messenger – Academic & Student Affairs
  • Leslie Greenwood – MCC Student
  • Xaview Moreira – TPUSA
  • Julie Babulski – Bio/Faculty Senate
  • Marcus Williams – TPUSA
  • Audre Schoof – SWE+Stem
  • Eric Berg – Math Department
  • Shawn Sanchez – Veterans Club

Minutes

Call to Order (2:16 pm)

  1. Roll Call (see attendance above)
    Vice President of Governance Rizzuti called for a roll call to start the senate meeting.
  2. Land Acknowledgement
  3. Approval of Minutes
    1. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti called for a motion to approve the October 28, 2025, Student Government Association Minutes
    2. Senator Breedy moved, seconded by Senator Reeves
    3. A vote was taken
    4. Be it resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the October 28, 2025, minutes as written

Protocol for Student Government Association Tuesday Meeting – President Jalisia Burno

Before proceeding to the Speak to the Senate portion of the agenda, the Student Government Association (SGA) hereby establishes the following protocol, to be conducted in accordance with Robert’s Rules of Order.

  1. The Chair, Vice President Rizzuti, shall recognize each individual prior to speaking. Only those who have been recognized will be permitted to address the assembly.
  2. Both Student Government Association members and Senate members will be afforded the opportunity to speak, provided they have been duly recognized by the Chair.
  3. All participants shall:
    • Engage in active listening;
    • Remain on topic; and
    • Communicate in a respectful and professional manner.
  4. We ask that you continue to be respectful of the meeting protocol

Speak to the Senate

  • Leslie asked SGA when the first conversation was about shutting down Monroe Doctrine and WMCC.  She couldn’t find anything in the minutes from this semester.
  • Senator Breedy let her know that he hasn’t had a chance to fully look into it yet, but mentioned that in their previous conversation that they would talk about that in Executive Session.  He explained that anything discussed during Executive Session would not be posted public.
  • Leslie then asked what types of things are discussed at Executive Session.
  • The SGA members let her know it’s like their pre-agenda meetings where they discuss items that will be put on the agenda for the next meeting (i.e. resolutions, MCC champion, upcoming events or things that need to be done in the next week, etc.)
  • Leslie asked how the issues with the Monroe Doctrine and WMCC were brought up to SGA, was it by students, faculty, staff?
  • Lisa let Leslie know that it was not something that just came about.  It was stemming from last spring semester.
  • Leslie mentioned she was going to forward the link to the last Board of Trustees meeting to them to listen to.  April Daniels spoke and it might be good for them to hear.
  • Leslie asked if any of the SGA members were aware of an e-mail exchange between Jodi Oriel and Lori Moses back in January 2025?  SGA was not aware of the e-mail exchange.

Reports

  1. President Burno
    Good afternoon, everyone! I hope you all had a great week. I have a slightly longer report this week, as I had the opportunity to participate in several events and initiatives. On Tuesday, October 21, I attended our second Club and Organization meeting, conducted by Senator Pottinger and Senator Reeves. It was a wonderful event where we heard updates from various clubs and organizations. The meeting was full of energy, and it was inspiring to see both senators stepping into their leadership roles so effectively. The following day On Wednesday, October 22, I volunteered for a campus clean-up alongside Senator Pottinger, Senator Reeves, and other students from the MCC community. This event was a meaningful way to give back to our campus and connect with my team. I look forward to participating in more service events in the future. In addition to this On Thursday, October 23, I attended my second board meeting, where we discussed campus updates, presentations, and other important matters. I always enjoy engaging with fellow board members and contributing to our campus initiatives. On Friday, October 24, I attended a diversity conference with some along side some of my team members. This educational experience provided insight into the LGBTQ+ community and offered ideas on how we can enhance their campus life experience. The following week, on Monday, October 27, I had the privilege of introducing President Burt Nana at the Desert Leadership Social. This meaningful event allowed student leaders to connect with the president and her team, ask questions, and engage in valuable discussions. On Wednesday, October 29, I collaborated with the MCC Foundation to film a video introducing a new inductee to the MCC Hall of Fame. This was a fun and engaging experience that I truly enjoyed. Later that same day, I attended a fall event hosted by CAB, which was interactive, entertaining, and a great way to connect with the campus community. Overall, the past two weeks have been busy, educational, and rewarding. I am grateful for the opportunities to engage with my team, give back to the campus, and connect with the broader MCC community.
  2. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti
    No report for this week
  3. Secretary of Governance Enaami
    This week has been one hectic ride with all the exams, but the SGA team has done a wonderful job participating in multiple initiatives. On Wednesday, October 29th, there was an event at the Terrace where Morgan and Chloe did an amazing job organizing everything — and so did everyone else who helped out. Many people wore costumes, played games, and enjoyed themselves. Most of the SGA team helped out and joined in on the fun. And AGAIN… the SGA didn’t win anything, but oh well…lol

    Then on Friday, October 31st, I attended another costume event at the Terrace where students competed for their costumes— and it was such a fun time! Poppie also came, which was really nice. At the end, they handed out the remaining treats, and let’s just say…the SGA may or may not have walked away with a few extra stacks!

    On Monday, there was also the Dessert Social with the President. Unfortunately, my schedule was very tight, so I couldn’t attend, but I’m so glad that some of our team members were able to go, seemed fun. On Tuesday, we received several things as SGA, including funding requests and other updates.

    Overall, this week flew by and felt overwhelming at times, but hey — hang in there, everyone! We’re almost at the finish line. I’m really excited for November because SGA has a lot planned. This week, I’ve also been working closely with the MSA, especially with Aaron from Sodexo, to help bring halal food options to campus. We’ve agreed that November 12th will be the day chicken will officially be introduced on campus, and other schools will be invited to join and try it.

    Huge thank you to the SGA, MSA, and everyone who’s been part of these initiatives — your help means a lot!
  4. Student Trustee Werven
    On Monday the 27th, I started out the week attending the dessert social for all student leaders, board of trustees, and the executive leadership team. I was able to sit with and get to know many like-minded leaders during this time. It was great to catch up with MCC Hall of Famer; Trustee Tashanda Thomas and Vice President, Institutional Advancement; Executive Director, MCC Foundation Gretchen Wood. Huge appreciation to SGA President Burno who set the bar high for the event with her opening words. She is a valuable leader for our team, and I am always excited to see any SGA member succeeding in their role. President Burt-Nanna, who I can say I also look up to, had heartfelt messages and motivational bits that made me proud of how I serve the student body and how to always be forward thinking. Moving onto Friday the 31st, We had another great Student to Student Committee, where our members discussed final tweaks and fixes to our survey. I am excited to see this final product and to gather valuable information from the surveys for our committee.
  5. Health and Wellness Senator Keech
    I have been trying to catch up on all the work I had missed due to being very ill. I am feeling better and I’m ready to get back to my duties and contact the health center and planning an event together.
  6. Public Relations Senator Smetanyak
    This week, I reviewed the Esports Club’s activities and looked over and approved their financial request to ensure it aligns with SGA standards.
  7. Athletic Senator Breedy
    No report for this week
  8. Clubs and Organization Senator Reeves
    Last week, I attended the Board Meeting, where I listened to updates and discussions about ongoing campus initiatives and upcoming events designed to improve student life. I also participated in the Campus Cleanup alongside President Burno, Senator Pottinger, and another RA. It was a great experience working together to make the campus look better and more welcoming for everyone. Senator Pottinger and I co-led the Club and Organization Meeting, where we guided discussions with club leaders about their goals, event planning, and ways to strengthen engagement across campus. The meeting went really well, and I enjoyed seeing how passionate students were about their clubs. I also attended the Diversity Conference, where I learned more about the LGBTQIA+ community and got to hear from several inspiring speakers who shared their experiences and perspectives on inclusion and identity. This week, I worked with Student Trustee Werven on the Student-to-Student Communication Committee. Together, we finalized the questions for upcoming tabling and made sure everything was well-organized and ready to move forward. It was a productive meeting, and I’m looking forward to seeing how students respond once we begin outreach.
  9. Clubs and Organizations Senator Pottinger
    Hello Everyone, On October 27, I supported the Hospitality Club’s fundraising initiative, where they sold cake pops on the terrace. I first learned about their event during the Clubs and Organizations meeting on October 21, and I made sure to stop by the following week to show my support. The cake pops were great, and I highly recommend anyone who enjoys sweet treats to try them when the Hospitality Club hosts their next sale. Later that day, I attended the Ice Cream Social alongside other student leaders. This event provided an excellent opportunity to network with peers and members of President Burt Nanna executive team. President Burno gave an inspiring speech about leadership, growth, and student involvement, emphasizing the importance of staying engaged and making a difference on campus. I had the pleasure to be seated with Dr. Gantt, who shared some great advice about what it truly means to be a leader reminding us that anyone can be a leader, no matter who you are or where you come from. It was a valuable experience that encouraged reflection, motivation, and collaboration among student leaders. On October 28th, I participated in a pumpkin carving event hosted by Resident Assistants Glasspool and Morabito. The activity was a great way to connect with other residents, celebrate the fall season, and stay involved in campus life. On October 29th, I helped with voter registration on campus. This initiative was an important effort to encourage civic engagement among students. Voting is one of the most powerful ways for individuals to make their voices heard and influence decisions that affect their communities. Everyone’s voice matters because each person’s perspective and experience contribute to building a stronger, more inclusive community where all needs are represented. On October 31st, I attended the Student to Student Committee meeting, where members discussed tabling strategies and finalized details for their upcoming survey. It was a productive session that highlighted teamwork, planning, and commitment to student outreach and engagement. Lastly, From the week of October 24th to October 31st, I further demonstrated civic engagement by hosting a clothing drive to benefit the St. Joseph’s House of Hospitality. This initiative aimed to support individuals in need while fostering a sense of compassion and community involvement among students. Huge thanks to everyone who were able to donate clothes and make this drive possible. Thank You.
  10. Student Life Advisor Oriel
    Jodi reminded everyone that today is election day. She wanted to thank the SGA members for all they had done for TurboVote and tabling to get students registered to vote. We wouldn’t know until January how many students have registered. Jodi also congratulated Elle for being chosen to be the keynote speaker at the Salute to Excellence on November 19th. November is Homelessness Month. Jodi is working closely with Amy Greer to get some tabling scheduled in the terrace and would love to have some student participation with that. Jodi also wants to congratulate the mens soccer team for going undefeated this season and they play again Friday night at 6pm for the NJCAA East District Championship. Jodi reminded everyone that there is no school on Tuesday, November 11th to celebrate Veteran’s Day, so there will not be an SGA meeting that day.

New Business

  1. MCC Champion certificate presented to Eric Berg after his nominator, MCC Student Leah Baker spoke as to why she nominated him for the award.
  2. Resolution to approve the funding request of $600 for Esports Club
    1. Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request of $600 for Esports Club Vice
    2. President of Governance Rizzuti called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Reeves.
    3. Discussion: Esports 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.
    4. Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request for Esports Club, effective November 4, 2025 at Monroe Community College
  3. Resolution to temporarily approve the funding request of $3000 for the Black Student Union
    1. Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the funding request of $3000 for the Black Student Union
    2. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti called for a motion to approve the resolution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Reeves.
    3. Discussion: Black Student Union 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.
    4. Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the funding request for the Black Student Union, effective November 4, 2025 at Monroe Community College
  4. Resolution to approve the Turning Point USA Club Constitution
    1. Resolved, the Monroe Community College Student Government Association approves the Turning Point USA Club Constitution
    2. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti called for a motion to approve the Constitution. Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Reeves.
    3. Discussion: The Turning Point USA 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
    4. Be it resolved, the senate present and voting hereby approves the Turning Point USA Club Constitution, effective November 4, 2025 at Monroe Community College

Discussion Items

  1. There were no discussion items

Old Business

  1. There was no old business.

Questions and Comments

  1. Leslie asked the status of the By-Laws committee meeting in terms of where they stand with it and if there are minutes for those meetings.  Hajer let her know that she takes minutes from every meeting and she can provide them if requested.  She also welcomed Leslie to join them to give her thoughts at the next meeting.
  2. Leslie then asked for clarification on who makes the decision on the temporary approval of funding requests as they did today with the BSU.  Margherita, Hajer and Lisa explained that the SGA as a whole discusses these things and receives information from Jodi in order for them to move forward and make their decision on what to do.
  3. Raqad spoke about the recent funding request for an upcoming event that they wanted to collaborate with RIT on.  The event was to happen fairly soon and she wanted to ask if they were going to be able to review the request in time.  Hajer let her know that they would be discussing things in Executive Session after the public meeting.

Adjournment

  1. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti called for a motion for adjournment.
    Senator Breedy so moved, seconded by Senator Smetanyak
  2. Meeting was adjourned at 3:01 pm.

Executive Session

Respectfully submitted