The Students’ Association unanimously approved constitutions for two new veterinary student organizations and reviewed upcoming budgets during its meeting on Monday, as election season approached.
Open Forum
The Student Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society (SVECCS) gained approval after a presentation by club President, Andrea Kopman and Vice President, Bella Jurgens. The club aims to introduce emergency veterinary protocols, filling a gap for SDSU’s Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine (PPVM) students.
“There are no opportunities like this on campus,” Kopman said, noting seven founding members are in place, with plans to advertise the club soon. All present SA members voted to formalize the club’s status.
Next, Mary Novak presented the Rabbits Obtaining Surgical Experience (ROSE) club, a partnership with the Brookings Humane Society to offer hands-on surgical experience and training.
“Our end goal is low-cost spay and neuter clinics,” Novak said, highlighting faculty involvement and community benefits.
Senator Eleanor Wehseler, said her own veterinary shadowing experience, emphasizes the need for this experience. A second roll call vote showed unanimous approval.
Committee & Staff Reports
SA President, Trinity Peterson reported on multiple topics: an honors college ex-officio spot for the 2025-26 term is under review by a task force meeting on Friday, with legislation drafted by Senator Matthew Schell. The online counseling platform “You Will” funded by the General Activity Fee (GAF), will switch to “Better Mind” on July 1. This company is not only more cost effective but also offers 50-minute sessions instead of 30.
Vice President Hayden Bentz confirmed funding for the Rodeo Club’s Jackrabbit Stampede, Little I and Nepal Night. Twelve candidates were verified for the general election ballot. Vice President Bentz and President Peterson will meet with President Dunn on Wednesday to relay student concerns.
Finance Chair Grace Peterson announced the Fiscal Year 25’ budget details were attached for review. The Senate will vote next week on two Fiscal Year 26’ budgets (preferred and contingency) because of the Board of Regents’ pending GAF approval, set for April 3 at Northern State University.
Diversity Liaison Oscar Garcia talked about a transition from “Diversity Chair” to “Diversity Liaison” after consultations with past holders, addressing high turnover with a lower salary and fewer hours.
Ex-officio updates included the American Indian Student Association’s Awa Chibi event which will take place on March 29-30, the Graduate Student Association’s clothing drive for Marty’s Closet and Greek Week (April 6-11) benefiting the Brookings Backpack Program. The University Program Council anticipates sending team offer letters next week.
Advisor Dr. Willis, in her final meeting of the semester, endorsed the dual-budget strategy, explaining it ensures funding continuity regardless of the Regents’ GAF decision.
“It’s a timing issue,” she said.
Willis will depart for Mayo Clinic this week, to have surgery – a partial nephrectomy, to remove cancer in her kidney. Dr. Kim Grieve will take over as advisor through May.
New Business
The first reading of Fiscal Year 26’ budgets, with a stipend cut for the Diversity Liaison role were mentioned. The meeting adjourned after election reminders, including a campaign guideline meeting on Wednesday in the Pheasant Room.
Announcements
The Senate reconvenes next week to vote on budgets and to host a debate for the upcoming election.
