During the South Dakota State University Students’ Association meeting Jan. 10, senators were addressed by Cara Olson, the assistant director of student activities, and David Reynolds, the director of the School of Performing Arts. The Senate also announced that there are four open senator-at-large positions. Students interested can contact SA Vice President Rachel Schoon.

Cara Olson

Olson joined SDSU in late November 2021. She formerly served as the coordinator for student programs and activities at the University of South Dakota. After a short introduction to the Senate, Olson spoke to the senators about upcoming activities being held by the University Program Council, or UPC.

 The UPC has planned numerous events for spring, including grocery bingo, a Mount Kato trip, pool party, chili cook-off and other activities. Olson said the best way to learn about upcoming events is to follow the UPC social media pages or by reaching out directly via email. Olson spoke about other upcoming spring events.

State A Thon’s push week will be Feb. 14 through 18, Olson said, with the main event set for April 9.

“All sorority and fraternity chapters are recruiting currently,” Olson said, adding that Greek Week is set for April 17 through 23.

Additionally, applications for the 2022 Hobo Day committee are currently open, according to Olson.

David Reynolds

Reynolds addressed the senate Monday about how GAF funds are utilized throughout the School of Performing Arts.

The GAF funds go to fund “base budgets” for theater productions, including Pride of the Dakotas, pep bands, orchestra and theater and dance programs.

“It’s a long list of activities the base budgets provide for,” Reynolds said. “Base budgets also go for the rights to play certain pieces and maintain inventory including uniforms and instruments. If you take a saxophone out in 30-degree weather, something may eventually break.”

Reynolds also provided updates about the preparation for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade next semester.

“We have been working very carefully with the foundation to get what we assess to be a reasonable cost for each student to go on the trip,” Reynolds said. The estimated cost is between $500 and $750 at this time, according to Reynolds.

Reynolds announced the entire band, including color guard, will receive new uniforms before it performs in the Macy’s Day Parade in November.

SDSU has been in the Rose Parade twice, the Citrus Parade, two inaugural parades, and soon the Macy’s Day Parade.

“No other band in the Midwest can say that,” Reynolds said.