SGA Senate Discuss 2022 Elections Board, Committee Initiatives

Maya Washburn / Asst. News Director

With one month left of the Fall semester, FIU’s Student Government Association (SGA) Senate reviewed their 2022 election board candidates and committee initiatives on Monday.

Carolina Echeverri, a freshman studying international relations, ran for deputy elections commissioner, but the senate tabled her decision until next week after she fainted during a question and answer period, according to Alexander Sutton, Senator for the School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA).

“I know that with COVID-19 and everything, elections were a little complicated and you all had to transition to online,” said Echeverri. “But I think it’s important to make sure we come up with clear ways of making sure elections run smoothly.”

Carolina Echeverri addresses the senate during a question and answer period. Julian Davis / PantherNOW

The senate approved the second candidate, freshman student Ana Meredith, as an elections board member.

Meredith said she lacks experience with University organizations. However, she is willing to learn more about SGA elections and assist in organizing pre-pandemic elections processes.

“I’m still pretty new to this if I’m going to be completely honest with you guys, but I am willing to learn,” said Meredith. “I think that’s what life’s about – new experiences.”

The senate noted elections for the 2022-2023 academic year will be held the week after spring break in March.

Ana Meredith addresses the senate during a question and answer period. Julian Davis / PantherNOW

Additional committee updates were presented to the senate, which included information about upcoming initiatives and projects, including a housing recycling project. 

• The University Sustainability and Innovation Committee is developing a potential recycling competition between dorm buildings at the Modesto Maidique campus.

• SGA’s Student Life and Academic Concerns Committee plans to hold a research fair for all majors, with a focus on medical-related studies.

• The Appropriations Committee is appropriating funds to speakers of the “How Would you Save the World” student ambassador event on Mar. 19. Senate Floor Leader Cristhofer Lugo said legislation is in place to revamp the scholarship website.