2025-11-25 SGA Senate Meeting Minutes

November 25, 2025

2:15pm, Forum (Brighton Campus Building 3, Room 130), Downtown Campus Room 200B, and via Zoom

In Attendance

Student Senators

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

President

  • Jalisia Burno

Vice President of Governance

  • Margherita Rizzuti

Vice President of Downtown

  •  

Secretary of Governance

  • Hajer Enaami

Treasurer

  •  

Chief of Staff

  •  

Secretary of Staff

  •  

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
  • Courtney Weimar, Community Relations
  • Ryan Messenger, Academic & Student Affairs
  • Leslie Greenwood, MCC Student (online)
  • Audre Schoof, SWE+Stem
  • Angie Nassar, MCC alumni (online)
  • April Daniels, Faculty (online)
  • Cory Maltsev, MCC student
  • Chloe Allen, Student Life
  • Suhaib Williams, YDSA president
  • Cordelia Campbell-Dennis, Theater club
  • Jonathan Barrero, Volleyball club

Minutes

Call to Order (2:15 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 November 18, 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 November 18, 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

  • Cory Maltsev expressed how excited he was to hear that the survey is done and can lead to a new Monroe Doctrine and WMCC. He asked if the director of Institutional Research was in the room. President Burno said he was not in the room.
  • Leslie Greenwood asked President Burno why she was told the student-to-student meeting was canceled. President Burno apologized for providing the incorrect information.
    Referred to a conversation Leslie had with Lisa in the hallway. She stated that referring her to the Associate Vice President is Dr. Ryan Messenger, breaks SUNY policies. She read the MCC Code of Conduct. Leslie asked the SGA body to cease referring her to Ryan Messenger.
    President Burno thanked Leslie for her comments. President Burno stated the SGA has provided many opportunities for Leslie and other students to voice their concerns.
  • Audre stated she wanted to attend the bylaws committee at 1:00pm on Tuesdays. She heard the bylaws were approved.
    Vice Rizzutti stated that the bylaws have not been approved and that SGA is still working on the bylaws.
  • Leslie suggested the SGA create a congress to balance the senate, consisting of club presidents.
  • Dana Williams asked where and when is the next Student-to-Student Committee meeting. Trustee Werven stated they would be meeting on Friday, December 5, at 1:00 pm.
  • Cory asked when the survey is going out. Trustee Werven stated the survey was distributed today, Tuesday, November 25.
  • Angie Nassar asked if the suspension of the 2 organizations was on the agenda or any future agendas. Vice President Rizzuti and President Burno stated it is not on the agenda.
    Audre expressed frustration about there not being a notice regarding the suspensions. The Vice President expressed there was a notice in the MCC Tribune because there was no Monroe Doctrine.
  • Senator Keech stated the survey results will help to determine what communication platforms are of interest to students. Senator Keech SGA has reached out several times and in several ways to the student body and those who stated WMCC and Monroe Doctrine interest. Senator Keech mentioned that there have been 2 to 3 consistent students involved, and SGA has worked with them throughout the process.
    Angie stated that she is concerned that the survey is the answer to the suspension. She feels it should be separate from suspending the two organizations. She stressed it is the SGA’s responsibility to listen to the students.
    Vice President Rizzuti assured Angie that there are ways SGA engages with the student body. There were posters and emails sent to students to participate.
    Secretary of Governance Hajer, described the ways the committee and the results of the survey will provide communication platforms to the student body.
    President Burno assured Angie that the SGA team is listening to the student body and they have been working hard on finding solutions to provide students with campus news and music.
    April Daniels acknowledged the SGA hard work on the Monroe Doctrine and WMCC. She affirmed Angie’s thought on re-instating the organizations. She believes there are enough students and faculty who want to reinstate the organizations.
  • Audre wanted to know how SGA members become SGA members. Vice President Rizutti stated there are elections every spring semester. If positions are not filled, students can apply to SGA, interviews are conducted, and then students are appointed to their positions.

Reports

  1. President Burno
    • Good afternoon, everyone. President Burno hopes you’re all having a great start to your week. On Wednesday, November 19, President Burno had the opportunity to volunteer and attend the Salute to Excellence Dinner. This was a wonderful event where they celebrated this year’s MCC Hall of Fame inductees and heard an inspiring keynote from our very own Senator Reeves. Her speech was nothing short of amazing and truly showcased the power of hard work and dedication.
    • On Thursday, November 20, President Burno attended the MCC Association Board Meeting, which she always enjoys. They received important college updates, discussed campus matters, and explored new ways to continue improving the MCC experience for all students.On Friday, November 21, President Burno had the pleasure of attending the BSU event alongside Vice President Rizzuti, Senator Pottinger, and Senator Reeves. The event was fun, engaging, and educational—truly a testament to the hard work the Black Student Union put into making it such a successful turnout. She loved connecting with so many members of our MCC community and looks forward to supporting more of their events in the future. That same night, a few members of her team and President Burno went grocery shopping to prepare for their volunteering event the next morning. While they were shopping, a sweet family overheard what they were doing and generously donated to their cause. Because of their kindness, they were able to purchase gifts, games, coloring books, and more for all 20 children. It was one of those moments that truly reminded them of the power of community and coming together.
    • Finally, on Saturday, November 21, President Burno and her team volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House. This aligns with their initiative to make an impact not just on their campus community, but in the greater Rochester community as well. It was an amazing experience—cooking breakfast, connecting with the families, and seeing the children smile made it all worth it. But of course, one of her favorite parts was doing it side-by-side with her team and watching everyone step fully into their leadership roles.
    • As we enter the season of thankfulness, President Burno wants to take a moment to say thank you. She appreciates every single one of you on her team more than you know. Your hard work and dedication never goes unnoticed. She is aware that Student Government asks a lot of you all, and time and time again, each and every single one of you continues to rise to the occasion. And of course, thank you to her incredible advisors, Marc and Jodi, and to our amazing administration for their constant support. And as she always says, she is nothing without her team. You all push her to grow as a leader, and you inspire her to continue showing up with purpose.
    • She hopes you all enjoy your Thanksgiving and take this time to rest and be with loved ones.
  2. Vice President of Governance Rizzuti
    • On Friday, November 21, Margherita Rizzuti, SGA President Jalisia Burno, and Clubs & Organizations Senators Reeves and Pottinger attended the BSU event, showing their support and engaging with students leading meaningful cultural and community-based initiatives at MCC.
    • Earlier that evening, Margherita and members of the SGA team went shopping for supplies in preparation for their volunteer shift at the Ronald McDonald House. During their trip, they encountered a kind couple with two children who, after hearing about the SGA’s upcoming volunteer project, generously contributed by purchasing toys and donating money to support the cause. This unexpected act of kindness reminded the team of the compassion and generosity within the community, and they were sincerely grateful
    • On Saturday, Margherita and several team members spent the morning volunteering at the Ronald McDonald House, supporting families whose children are receiving medical care. Their work was meaningful, fulfilling, and aligned with SGA’s commitment to service and community engagement.
    • Overall, Margherita wants to give a big shout-out to everyone involved and a heartfelt thank you to her amazing team. Their dedication, compassion, hard work, and willingness to step up, whether at events, during volunteering, or while representing MCC, continue to make a positive impact both on campus and in the broader community.
  3. Student Trustee Parker Werven
    • This past week, he was honored to take part in MCC’s 34th annual Salute to Excellence dinner. They participated in both the VIP and general admission portions of the event, taking time to connect with the president, trustees, MCC personnel, alumni, and donors to the foundation. They also had the opportunity to meet Rochester Mayor Malik Evans, which they found especially exciting. They were seated at the Rochester Gas & Electric table, where they spoke with the president and CEO of the company, receiving valuable career advice and connections. A highlight of the evening was being able to support Elle Reeves during her speech as the student speaker for the event. She delivered an outstanding speech and truly deserved the spotlight, being one of only two people the entire night to receive a standing ovation. The MCC Foundation left everyone in awe after organizing such an amazing event, and it would not have been possible without their efforts. On November 22nd, they collaborated and volunteered with the RonaldMcDonald House. For those who may not know, this house serves as a “home away from home” for families with children undergoing medical treatment. They were glad to prepare breakfast and provide small, joy-filled gifts to families experiencing significant stress. While they may not have been a three Michelin star restaurant on the go, they were grateful for the chance to be there and spread a little extra happiness to those affected. These experiences wrapped up the main highlights of their week. They extend warm Thanksgiving wishes to those who celebrate and a reminder to be extra safe when boiling turkeys this year.
  4. Secretary of Governance Hajer Enaami
    • Secretary of Governance Enaami had an extremely productive week. After she and the SGA team came back from Syracuse on Sunday, Monday transitioned straight into classes, and Tuesday brought a long but highly productive Senate meeting. With the previous week off for Veterans Day, several resolutions needed to be reviewed, and the team was excited to see so many new faces.
    • On Wednesday, Secretary of Governance Enaami and most of the SGA team attended Salute to Excellence. It was a meaningful event, and she expressed heartfelt gratitude to Karen, Katie, and everyone who helped make it possible. Hajer connected with individuals she regularly sees in the community—entrepreneurs, engineers, registered nurses, and more. She also extended a special thank-you to Jodi, who consistently goes above and beyond for students.
      • After the event, the team made a stop at Taco Bell, where they may or may not have ordered almost the entire menu—but we don’t talk about that…Also, President Bruno definitely did not order something spicy for Jodi… absolutely not.
      • The evening’s speaker, Clubs & Orgs Senator Reeves (Ella), left a strong impression on Secretary Enaami. Although she had always seen Ella as independent, focused, intelligent, and soft-spoken yet strong, they hadn’t formed a deep connection until the recent Syracuse trip. Their shared values and parallel life experiences made their connection meaningful, and Ella’s speech inspired her tremendously. That speech left a print on Secrearty enaami…is to uplift every woman in the room, reminding them that they are enough, capable, and deserving—especially in male-dominated fields like engineering, where self-doubt often arises.
    • Later that week on Thursday, she and Student Trustee Parker stopped by the Culture Awareness tables in the Terrace, where they met several students. They also noticed an Engineering Leadership event featuring RIT transfer students speaking about their pathway from MCC to RIT. Also, Secretary Enaami attended classes and checked in with the MSA, who have an event on December 3rd. She encouraged students to attend for the food and to learn either about Islam or about growing up in the West.
    • On Friday, November 21st, she and student Truste wreven attended the SWE event featuring Dr. Lydia, Dr. Markham, Dr. Mohrs, and others who spoke about graduate school and it was a strong turnout.
    • On Saturday, Secretary Enaami and the SGA team volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House. She and Clubs & Orgs Senator Reeves dominated the pancake-making, with Marg helping as well. Student Trustee Wreven handled the dishes like a pro, as did Public Relations Senator Smytanyak. Afterwards, the team went out for brunch together—a fun way to wrap up the week. Secretary Enaami is looking forward to more teamwork and community service in the future.
    • Overall, it was a productive and fulfilling week, and with finals approaching, she wishes everyone the very best.
  5. Health and Wellness Senator Keech
    • The Health and Wellness Senator went the solute to excellent dinner along with many other SGA members and she got to meet different people from the school. It was an amazing opportunity to experience thanks to the SGA. Along with volunteering at the Ronald McDonald’s house. All the SGA members came at 7:30 and made food for all the families staying there.
  6. Club/Organization Senator Pottinger
    • Over the past week, Abigail remained actively engaged in various campus events, leadership responsibilities, and community service efforts. On Monday, Nov. 17th, Abigail attended the Finance Committee meeting to stay updated on budget matters and ongoing financial planning for the betterment of the campus community.
    • On Tuesday, November 18th, Abigail and Club Senator Reeves co-hosted the third Clubs and Organizations meeting of the semester. The meeting was productive and collaborative, giving student leaders the opportunity to share updates, ask questions, and continue building momentum for their organizations as the term progresses.
    • On Wednesday, November 19th, Abigail attended the annual Salute to Excellence Dinner, where the association recognized four distinguished alumni for their exceptional professional accomplishments, personal achievements, and meaningful civic contributions to their communities and MCC. This year’s honorees were Emad Kadhim, Ebony T. Miller, Kevin S. Salva, and Stephanie E. Von Bacho. Each alumnus shared powerful stories that highlighted their dedication, perseverance, and impact, serving as an inspiring reminder of the strength and potential within the MCC community.
      • Abigail had the pleasure of speaking with Miller before she went on stage to accept her award. Miller came across as incredibly kind, genuine, humble, and had a great sense of humor. Seeing someone so down-to-earth be recognized for her accomplishments was truly inspiring.
      • Abigail would like to give a special and well-deserved shout-out to Elle Reeves, who served as the student speaker for the evening. Reeves delivered a deeply moving and heartfelt speech that resonated with everyone in the room. Her story reflected resilience, maturity, courage, and tremendous personal growth. The authenticity and purpose with which she shared her experiences demonstrated her strength of character and her ability to transform challenges into motivation. Reeves consistently uplifts those around her. She approaches life with empathy, humility, and a genuine desire to help others—not just herself, but her community. Whether advocating for her peers, stepping in where support is needed, or offering a kind word, Reeves embodies true leadership. Her grit and determination have carried her through situations where many others might have given up, yet she continues to strive for excellence. Abigail is immensely proud of Reeves for all she has accomplished and for the person she continues to become. There is no doubt she will make an even greater impact professionally and personally, continuing to inspire others just as she inspired everyone at the Salute to Excellence Dinner.
    • On Thursday, November 20th, Abigail attended the Board Meeting to stay informed on campus-wide updates, initiatives, and discussions impacting the student body. On Friday, November 21st, Abigail attended the Black Student Union Hollywood Gala event. It was a wonderful event with an impressive turnout and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Abigail was later joined by President Bruno, Vice President Rizzuti, and Club & Org Senator Reeves. They participated in a Kahoot game and secured second place, adding to the fun of the evening. Abigail looks forward to seeing what other events BSU will host in the future.
    • On Saturday, November 22nd, Abigail and the entire Student Government team volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House. During the visit, they prepared breakfast for the guests, including pancakes, parfaits, eggs, and sausage. The team also assembled minigoodie bags for the children, filled with Care Bears and candy to brighten their day. It was a meaningful and rewarding experience for Abigail to serve the families. Helping prepare meals, offering support, and bringing smiles to the children made the effort truly worthwhile. Abigail is grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to future volunteering activities with the team. Thank you
  7. Clubs & Organizations Senator Reeves
    • This week, Elle had the honor of serving as the keynote speaker for the 34th Annual Salute to Excellence. This opportunity allowed her to share her story, connect with influential leaders, and strengthen her relationship with her future transfer college. The event was not only a meaningful recognition of student success but also an important moment of representation for MCC. Elle also attended her O.N.P. board meeting, staying engaged with ongoing initiatives and continuing her commitment to student advocacy and leadership. In addition, she participated in a BSU event where her group earned second place in Kahoot, a fun and interactive way to support student-led programming on campus.
    • On Saturday, SGA volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House, where they prepared meals for families and children and created gift bags to distribute. This service project was a humbling and impactful experience that aligned with her dedication to community support. The team ended the day with a bonding dinner at Cracker Barrel, giving them a chance.
  8. Athletic Senator Breedy
    • This past week, Athletic Senator Breedy and his team participated in volunteer work at the Ronald McDonald House. Cooking breakfast for the families staying there was a deeply grounding and meaningful experience for him. As volunteers, they weren’t just preparing food—they were creating a small moment of comfort for families carrying incredibly heavy burdens while caring for their sick children. From flipping pancakes to warming trays of eggs and setting the table, every step felt purposeful. The team also prepared gift bags with Care Bears and candy to share with the kids. For Senator Breedy, it was a truly heartwarming experience, made even more meaningful by the opportunity to serve alongside a supportive and dedicated group of people.
  9. Public Relations Senator Smetanyak
    • Over the past week, Senator Smetanyak reviewed and drafted funding resolutions for both the Disability Awareness Club and the Mapping Club, ensuring that each proposal met SGA standards and was fully prepared for Senate consideration. For the Disability Awareness Club, he completed a $1,040 funding resolution to support the December 10th Disability Awareness Celebration, which includes food, decorations, and inclusive activities designed to promote awareness and strengthen community engagement. She also prepared a $192 resolution for the Mapping Club’s Lord of the Rings–themed scavenger hunt, an interactive event aimed at increasing student involvement through shared interests and themed rubber duck prizes.
    • Beyond his SGA responsibilities, Senator Smetanyak attended the MCC Salute to Excellence Dinner and volunteered at the Ronald McDonald House on Saturday, where he helped prepare food for young children and families. Each resolution and activity he completed this week contributed meaningfully to enhancing student life and advancing community service both on and off campus.

New Business

  1. The resolution for YDSA was read, voted and passed to allocate $100.00 to the club. Motion was moved by Senator Breedy and seconded by Senator Reeves.
  2. The resolution for the Volleyball Club was moved by Senator Breedy and seconded by Senator Keech. The resolution was passed and $150.00 was allocated to the Volleyball club.
  3. The resolution for the Student American Dental Hygienist was moved by Senator Breedy and seconded by Senator Pottinger. The resolution to fund $6.000.00 for the SADHA club was passed.
  4. The resolution for the Theater Club was moved by Senator Breedy and seconded by Senator Keech. The resolution was passed to allocate $230.00 to the Theater club.
  5. The resolution for the Disability Awareness Club for $1,039.00 was moved by Senator Keech and seconded by Senator Smetanyak. The resolution was passed.
  6. The resolution for the Muslim Student Association for $953.48 for their event was moved by Senator Breedy and seconded by Senator Smetanyak. The resolution was passed.
  7. The resolution for the Mapping club for $166.45 was moved by Senator Keech and seconded by Senator Pottinger. The resolution was passed.

Discussion Items

  1. There were no discussion items.

Old Business

  1. There was no old business.

Questions and Comments

  1. Leslie reviewed past SGA meetings regarding the Monroe Doctrine and WMCC. She read statements regarding executive session policies. President Burno stated that the executive meetings are not open to the public.
  2. Angie stated she respects SGA and she believes they work hard. She asks when the discussions regarding the suspensions. Vice President Rizzuti stated in the spring semester of 2025.

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 3:50.17 pm.

Executive Session

Respectfully submitted