The SGA meeting last Thursday was possibly the shortest one all year. There were two contingencies, one from Phi Mu Alpha of Augustana and another from the president of Relay For Life.
The meeting had fallen behind schedule, as it was held in the Olin Auditorium, earlier than usual.
Because of these changes, many of the senators could not attend the meeting.
The meeting opened with an announcment from the SGA treasurer, Kevin Seelander, that there was roughly $17,770 left in the budget.
The first contingency, Phi Mu Alpha, was presented by Steven Mondloch.
According to Mondloch, Phi Mu Alpha’s status as a national fraternity means that they do not receive any money from the Greek Council.
Phi Mu Alpha hasn’t had a long-standing association with SGA yet, which is changing due to lack of funds.
Mondloch mentioned that the fraternity does pay to stay involved on campus; however, all of the money comes from the students.
Speaking to SGA, Mondloch said, “I hope you guys will see that, if you give us some money, we will be able to stand on our own…With a one-time gift, we’d be able to support ourselves in the future.”
Mondloch’s contingency was aimed at getting some “gift” money, and in return, they would be able to maintain themselves in the future with more fundraisers.
SGA granted Phi Mu Alpha $1,200 as funding for sheet music, SING supplies, as well as chapter outreach.
They did, however, tell Phi Mu Alpha that some of the money they requested, such as money for a formal, would not be provided, because SGA doesn’t cover those charges.
The second contingency, a quick one, came from the president of Relay For Life. Relay for Life asked for about $1,300, with a large portion going towards the two artists performing.
SGA granted the $1,300 quickly after the presentation.
SGA skipped committee meetings, moving instead to announcements.
With some announcements regarding SGA’s adjusting to a new location and time on short notice, President Sommers said, “I really appreciate (SGA) for showing leadership and making sure we were here.”
